The Spitalfields district of London just east of Liverpool Street Station encapsulates much of the history of the capital in the changes it has undergone over the centuries. A large Roman cemetery was created in the area then well away from the city proper, as recently as 1999 a major find being made of a sarcophagus containing a Roman lady of obvious wealth and status. In the Middle Ages the priory hospital that gave the area its name (Spitalfields being derived from Hospital Fields, the area near the hospital) was founded, lasting from 1197 until the Dissolution in 1539. As with so much of the capital the arrival of new waves of residents has been of significance in Spitalfields. The Huguenots arrived in the late 17th century, establishing the silk industry that was central to the district’s economy for two centuries (and the wider textile industry remaining of some import even today). The fluctuating fortunes of the silk industry were reflected in the cityscape of the district: fine merchants’ houses were built in the Georgian era, many of them remaining; but the poverty which came with downturns saw houses overfill with whole families in one room, giving Spitalfields a name as a slum area – most of Jack the Ripper’s victims lodged there. In the 1960s many Bangladeshis arrived to live and work in Spitalfields, and a high percentage of its residents are still of that ethnic origin. Today Spitalfields is witnessing the creep northwards of the City, with high-rise office buildings constructed on the edge of the area, though its old market has been protected from further incursion. That market, chartered in 1638 by Charles I, is the soul of the place. Now covered with a modern canopy it is open every day bar Saturday and Monday, its offshoots including fashion and arts, the venue for many events too, the shops and boutiques around it equally varied and independently interesting.
Restaurant
A Scarlet Dot
City Limits
Strada
Shops
Spitalfields City Farm
Evans Cycles
FairyGothMother
Eyediology Opticians
Precious
White Stuff
Places to Stay near Spitalfields
The Writers (0.14 miles)
London City Apartments (0.18 miles)
Click here to book this apartment with Hoseasons
An excellent, centrally located base for exploring the many delights of London, these exclusive apartments sit conveniently just 3 minutes' walk from Liverpool Street Station. Stylish and spacious, ... More
Travelodge London Liverpool Street (0.31 miles)
There are loads of reasons our customers choose to stay at Travelodge. Our great value clean and comfortable rooms with en-suite provide everything needed for a good night's sleep and are close to where people ... More | visit website
Andaz London (0.31 miles)
In Spring 2000, the Great Eastern Hotel reopened its doors to reveal a breathtaking Victorian restoration incorporating the bold new spaces and designs you are surrounded by today. The ... More
Hoxton Hotel (0.38 miles)
SACO London - Spitalfields (0.39 miles)
University of Westminster Alexander Fleming Hall of Residence (0.43 miles)
Located at the edge of the "Square Mile", the original City and the most historic part of London. Home to the financial district, St Paul?s Cathedral and the Law Courts. ... More | visit website
Apex London Wall Hotel (0.51 miles)
Located in the heart of the City close to Moorgate and Bank tube stations, this four star deluxe hotel has 89 spacious stylish en-suite rooms. Each room type is individually ... More
Hotel Indigo (0.52 miles)
Hotel Indigo London – Tower Hill is an upscale boutique hotel that delivers a refreshingly and inviting guest experience that is truly reflective of the local community. The hotel is ... More
Threadneedles (0.55 miles)
Located in a beautifully converted banking ... More | visit website
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