Ever since the Romans established a trading post on the north bank of the

Thames, buying and selling have fuelled the city s rise to eminence, each

market contributing its share of local colour and local traditions to its area. From

Billingsgate, Borough and Smithfield (operating in Saxon times) to Ridley Road,

Portobello Road and Camden Passage, there are literally dozens of markets

which cater for the daily and more specialist requirements of Londoners and

tourists, offering variety, excitement and value for money.