London's flower markets are a gardener's delight

SOME may date back a couple of centuries, but even today, London's markets are an integral part of life in the English capital.

With many located within walking distance of other main sights, the markets offer an interesting way of visiting London.

Thanks to Notting Hill, the film starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, Portobello Market is one of the must-visits in London.

The fruit and vegetable market serves mainly locals on weekdays. But on Saturdays, the southern part of the street is taken over by a vibrant antique market which attracts thousands of visitors, both locals and foreigners.

Get in at around 9am to avoid the crush of people checking out the antiques on offer, from old maps to antique porcelain.

If the market gets too packed, a walk along the neighbouring adjacent streets lined by Georgian and Victorian architecture offers respite.

If hunger pangs strike, walk to Bayswater, where Hong Kong and Singaporean students queuing for roast duck at Four Seasons is a familiar sight. Beyond Asian food, you can get anything from Lebanese falafels to Italian pizzas at affordable prices.

But the real gourmets should head to Borough Market. Located on the South Bank of the Thames and near the Tate Modern and the Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, this market has been around for at least three centuries.

The 24-hour Beigel Bake, where cheap and good bagels are sold

It is now among the hippest place to hunt for quality and rare food like fresh truffles and Jerusalem artichokes as well as the finest British produce such as ham and sausages. Market stallholders count among their regular customers with celebrity chefs like Jamie Oliver.

On Fridays, the market is crowded with office workers who hop over to grab a nice takeaway, while on Saturdays, it is packed with Londoners and tourists.

But be warned, food here does not come cheap. Bread, for example, costs a few times more than in a supermarket.

Bargain hunters would do better to head to the East London markets. At the City of London, where millions of pounds are traded every minute, there are still great bargains to be had at the several thriving markets in the neighbouring markets.

Bear in mind though that on weekends, the East London markets are open only on Sundays, and not Saturdays. This has to do with observance of the Jewish Sabbath, as this district was once inhabited by a largely Jewish population. The tradition still continues, though the Jewish population has declined.

Blooming business for florists at Colombia Road flower market

If you are up early enough on a Sunday morning, check out the Columbia Road flower market, from where people emerge with pots and bouquets of brightly-coloured flowers. Though small, it is a nice place to have a coffee in the nearby cafes and potter around.

Or head to nearby Brick Lane market, where an eclectic mix of goods - from stolen bicycles to artwork by young designers - are on offer. Those interested in modern art and vintage clothes can spend an entire day browsing in the shops and studios in this area.

Also check out the 24-hour Beigel shop famous for its salt-beef bagels - another reminder of the Jewish heritage. Or tuck in at one of the numerous curry houses along the street, as the Bangladeshis have over the years moved into this street and the surroundings.

Just a short hop away, there is the Spitalfields market. Recently spruced up, this market offers handicrafts, fashion and accessories.

But before you get there, check in at the Ten Bells Pub along Commercial Street, said to have been frequented by some of Jack the Ripper's victims.

There are many more markets in London. Many, like those described above, are near main tourists sights. So just keep your eyes peeled for signs, or, follow the crowd, and chances are, you will stumble on one of these bustling arenas.