Spitalfields Market is a mostly-covered market area not far from Liverpool Street and Brick Lane, that has been trading since as far back as 1638 when a licence was granted for flesh, fowl and roots to be sold in the area. Trading originally from sheds and stalls, its roots are steeped in leather ware, clock making, cigar making, silk weaving and a home grown fruit and vegetable market. As the market popularity grew so did the congestion in the surrounding small streets, and so with no room for expansion it was decided that the market was to move to Leyton in May 1991. Since then the ?Old Spitalfields Market? has established itself as a highly popular and flourishing market, where independent boutique shops and market stalls come together. This is no longer a Sunday market destination and has become somewhat of a trendy and chic hang out, providing visitors with a good selection of carefully chosen retailers and restaurants as well as the market itself where visitors can find anything from vintage clothing to antique furniture and the vastly popular food market. The market is open seven days a week but gets particularly busy on Sundays. Spitalfields is definitely a great weekend shopping destination as no two visits will ever be the same, after hunting around the markets for that hidden jewel you can then either grab a bite to eat in the food market or head to one of the trendy little cafes or restaurants that surround the area. If that?s not intriguing enough you can also participate in one of the local tours leading you through the life and history of Jack the Ripper whose legacies contribute to this vibrant area.