Looking up is worth the stiff neck
Leadenhall Market, London, June 2018
This market has a long, long history as a major market, starting in Roman times, and becoming an important covered market in the hands of Lord Mayor Richard ‘Dick’ Whittington in the early 15th century.
The Leadenhall we see today, is the work of Horace Jones, who designed this wonderful wrought iron and glass structure as part of a significant redevelopment in 1881. It is now a Grade II* listed building, containing a host of modern retail outlets, and a popular filming location.
The place has had a number of famous visitors over its time. Most recently, there was Harry Potter and his acquaintances when it acted as Diagon Alley. Go back further, to the early 19th century, and you’ll find the famous Tom, a resident goose.
Be you Magical or Muggle, Animal or Human, this place is worth a visit when in London.
I love its quietness in early morning, when I can appreciate is beauty and imagine its hectic past life selling meat, fish, wool and leather. Later in the day, though, it’s a good place for a spot of retail therapy and a bite to eat, plus, its beautiful roof provides protection against the British weather.
If you fancy visiting this in the early hours of the morning, together with a few other photographers, check out Charlotte Gilliatt’s overnight workshops. A few of my recent London images were taken on her Classic London tour: Thames Barrier, O2 Arena and Tower Bridge.
Copyright Debbie Smyth, 27 June 2018
Posted as part of Roof Squares
Travel with Intent 
Black and white shows this in a whole new way. I love Leadenhall market and enjoyed seeing this.
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Hi Debbie, your images of Leadenhall Market are simply beautiful. You don’t often see B&W interpretations of this location but I have to say…it works perfectly. This is completely down to your expert eye for composition and a rather sympathetic and tasteful approach to processing. You have managed to capture the atmosphere of the place perfectly…well done.
I am really pleased you enjoyed our epic all-nighter on the streets of London…bravo for staying the distance!
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B&W does this such justice. Stunning!
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There’s not a soul in any of the pictures. Are they open?
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No, these were taken at about 03:00
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oh wow . . I was thinking how magical it looked before I even read your prose. Fabulous photographs Debbie, and a great roof for today 🙂
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I love these arcades. Now you are enticing me to London!
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Ooh, thanks for my Virtual visit….haven’t been there since the early ’80s, looks much the same as I remember…..
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