Historic Smithfield Meat Market to Close, Ending 850 Years of Tradition

After centuries of operation, London's Smithfield Meat Market, a symbol of the city's history, is on the verge of shutdown, raising concerns about the future of urban heritage.

For 22 years, John Burt has sliced and prepared meat in his butcher shop just across the street from London’s famed Smithfield Market. Over those years, he has witnessed a gradual transformation of the once-bustling market into a shadow of its former self, spurred by the modern demands of London’s evolving urban landscape. The announcement earlier this week regarding the market's impending closure took him by surprise and left him with a feeling of loss.

“I can hardly believe it’ll close,” noted the 64-year-old butcher. “It’s been a part of the city’s fabric since an era that predates even Henry VIII.” In fact, Smithfield has been a trading venue since at least 1174, originally serving as a marketplace for livestock. Ownership was transferred to the City of London Corporation centuries later, in 1327, solidifying its role in the culinary heart of the city.

The current structure, celebrated for its Victorian architecture and innovative design, dates back to 1868, showcasing an impressive roof and infrastructure that once included train tracks for livestock transportation. As the market prepares to close, the community reflects on the rich history and the potential loss of an iconic venue that has not only contributed to London's economy but also shaped its cultural identity. The decision to shutter the market also puts to rest plans to relocate it to a more modern facility in East London, leaving many wondering what this means for the future of meat trading in the capital.