Exmouth Market Clerkenwell
Food & Drink: A Global Culinary Destination
Exmouth market Clerkenwell by night
Nestled between Farringdon and Angel, Exmouth Market has become one of Islington’s most beloved destinations — a lively blend of history, gastronomy, and community. Once a humble 19th-century trading street, it’s now a shining example of urban regeneration done right, with cobbled pavements, café terraces, and glowing evening lights that create an atmosphere both stylish and neighbourly.
The street’s semi-pedestrianised design invites you to slow down and explore — ideal for long lunches, people-watching, or impromptu meet-ups. Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for your next favourite dish or simply looking for an inspiring stroll through Clerkenwell, Exmouth Market always delivers.
🕰️ A Rich History with a Modern Spirit
church of Our Most Holy Redeemer, Exmouth Market (formerly Exmouth Street), Clerkenwell, London EC1,
Exmouth Market has been home to traders since the 1890s, but its modern charm dates back to a 1990s regeneration project that transformed the area into a hub for creative industries and independent living.
At its centre stands the Church of Our Most Holy Redeemer, London’s only Italian basilica-style church, built in 1887 and modelled on Brunelleschi’s Santo Spirito in Florence — a piece of history hiding in plain sight.
Right next door lies Spa Fields Park — a tranquil green retreat that balances the market’s buzz with calm. Once famous for its 18th-century spa resort, it’s now a community space filled with lavender gardens, a playground, and even an outdoor gym — keeping the spirit of leisure alive through the centuries.
🍽️ Food & Drink: A Global Culinary Destination
Moro restaurant exmouth market Clerkenwell London EC1
If you love to eat, Exmouth Market is a true pilgrimage site for foodies. Its restaurants and cafés represent some of the best in London’s dining scene:
- Moro and Morito – Celebrated for Spanish and North African flavours, tapas, and wood-fired cooking.
- Berber & Q – Shawarma Bar – Middle Eastern excellence cooked over live fire (book ahead!).
- Paesan – Authentic Italian comfort food with a rustic, homely feel.
- Necco Japanese Café Bar – Sweet, colourful, and utterly charming.
- Pizza Pilgrims and Panzo – For relaxed, social dining with that unbeatable pizza-oven aroma.
By day, GAIL’s Bakery, Exmouth Market Grind, and Sweet Boulangerie & Patisserie are the go-to spots for coffee and croissants. As the sun sets, the street transforms with buzzing nightlife at Mikkeller Brewpub, The Exmouth Arms, and Coin Laundry, where locals wind down with craft beer and cocktails.
🛍️ Independent Shops & Creative Energy
Marby & Elm stationery and letterpress shop Exmouth Market.Clerkenwell EC1
Beyond the food, Exmouth Market thrives as a centre for independent design and craftsmanship, reflecting Clerkenwell’s creative spirit.
- Marby & Elm – Beautiful letterpress stationery and prints.
- Botanique Workshop – A stunning florist and boutique for plants and handmade gifts.
- McCaul Goldsmiths and EC One – Bespoke jewellery studios showcasing exceptional London craftsmanship.
- Eland Publishing – Specialist in travel and literary works.
There’s also a selection of practical yet stylish local services such as The Klinik Hairdressing, East Central Cycles, and Farringdon Locksmith & Tool Supplies, ensuring the market supports everyday community needs as well as indulgent shopping.
🥙 Street Food & Lunchtime Buzz
Lunchtime food stalls exmouth market Clerkenwell EC1
On weekdays, Exmouth Market bursts into colour and flavour. Between 11 am and 2 pm, around 20 food stalls serve the lunchtime crowds, creating one of London’s best street-food atmospheres.
Expect sizzling shawarma, Thai noodles, freshly grilled burgers, and global dishes prepared with passion. Many traders start small here — the low-cost pitch system encourages new culinary entrepreneurs, keeping the market dynamic and ever-changing.
If you’re visiting midweek, don’t miss Gurbuz Turkish Food, famous for its single-dish perfection. It’s proof that simple food, done brilliantly, wins every time.
🚇 Easy to Reach, Hard to Leave
Farringdon station near exmouth market Clerkenwell EC1
Exmouth Market is ideally located between Farringdon and Chancery Lane stations, with easy access via the Elizabeth, Circle, Metropolitan, and Central lines.
The area is designed for walkers and cyclists, and on-street parking is limited, encouraging a sustainable, community-focused flow. Islington Council’s electric cargo bike scheme even supports local deliveries and residents’ errands — another step toward a greener Clerkenwell.
💫 Why Exmouth Market Belongs on Your Islington List
In every sense, Exmouth Market is the heart of Clerkenwell — balancing its historic charm with a forward-thinking, inclusive spirit. It’s a street that celebrates creativity, connection, and good taste in every form.
Whether you’re enjoying a weekend brunch, browsing handmade gifts, or sipping wine under twinkling lights, Exmouth Market captures everything special about Islington living.
👉 Explore more with the Islington Local Guide Food & Drink section or check out nearby gems in Angel, Clerkenwell, and Finsbury Park.
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