City of London in Greater London, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)
The Victorian Market Buildings
Photographed by Ray Gurganus, April 9, 2026
1. The Victorian Market Buildings Marker
The combination of open ironwork to let light and air in, the louvred roof to keep the sun out and the breezy hill top location meant the market was considerably cooler than the shade outside. This was excellent for keeping meat fresh in the days before refrigerators. This, together with the newly constructed Metropolitan Line underground railway, contributed to Smithfield's success. In 1873 the Poultry Market was erected to the west of the Meat Market. This was followed by two buildings further west known as the General Market and Annexe.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1852.
Location. 51° 31.151′ N, 0° 6.07′ W. Marker is in City of London, England, in Greater London. It is on West Smithfield. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 66 W Smithfield, City of London, England EC1A 9DY,
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in the Greater South East. Globally, it is on the Atlantic Ocean, in the North Atlantic Region, in Europe, in Atlantic Europe, on one of the British Isles, in the Western World, and in the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the Roman Empire.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: World War II - The market closes (here, next to this marker); The Market Returns (here, next to this marker); The changing years (within shouting distance of this marker); William Wallace (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line); St. Bartholomew World War I Memorial (about 90 meters away); Great Rising of 1381 Memorial (about 90 meters away); To The Immortal Memory of Sir William Wallace (about 120 meters away); Marian Martyrs (about 120 meters away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in City of London.
circa 1910
2. Smithfield Market
This postcard image also shows the approximate location of the marker; it is just a few steps in from the arched entrance depicted here, on the right as one heads north.
Credits. This page was last revised on July 5, 2026. It was originally submitted on July 4, 2026, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 7 times since then. Photos: 1. submitted on July 4, 2026, by Ray Gurganus of Washington, District of Columbia. 2. submitted on July 5, 2026. • Andrew Ruppenstein was the editor who published this page.
