Old Spitalfields Market in 2015 offered plenty of ways to break up a little Christmas shopping. For Vlogmas Day 17, I explored the stalls, stopped for an espresso at Department of Coffee and Social Affairs, tried a mince pie from Konditor & Cook and finished with a glass of wine at Vagabond Wines.
This film was published on 17 December 2015. The shops, displays and market scenes belong to that visit.
Christmas shopping at Old Spitalfields Market
A Season’s Greetings sign hung beneath the market roof, while decorations and strings of lights ran above the stalls. The covered space brought clothing, accessories and food stops together, with busy aisles linking the different parts of the market.
I was here to buy Christmas presents, but the purchases had to stay off camera: their recipients might watch the vlog. There was still plenty to show, from vintage pieces and fashion accessories to the shops and restaurants around the market. A large brass band playing Christmas tunes added to the atmosphere.
An espresso at Department of Coffee and Social Affairs
After browsing the stalls and spotting Bread Ahead, I stopped at Department of Coffee and Social Affairs for an espresso. It was a small, welcome pause in the shopping — and, as I said in the film, something to help fuel the Christmas shop.
Then it was back into the market, where the brass band made the next stretch of browsing feel particularly festive. Shopping, coffee and music all fitted into the same wander beneath the market roof.
A mince pie from Konditor & Cook
At Konditor & Cook, I picked up a mince pie. After looking around the counter and cake display, I took it outside for a taste. My verdict in the film was straightforward: pretty good.
An espresso and a mince pie made a good seasonal break between buying presents. With the gifts still kept secret, the food stops became a way to share the afternoon without spoiling anyone’s Christmas surprise.
A glass of wine at Vagabond Wines
Vagabond Wines was the final named stop. Outside, a chalkboard introduced the wine bar. Inside, rows of bottles sat in dispensing machines, each with a display and controls above it. The camera takes a closer look before the visit settles at a wooden table with a glass of red wine and a Vagabond card.
On this visit, I explained how a topped-up Vagabond card let you choose a small sample or serve yourself a glass from the machines. Trying a little wine first made it easier to explore without committing to a whole bottle. I compared the card to an Oyster card for wine. With my glass poured, I took a front-row seat to watch the market go by — a break from the bustle without leaving it.
Watch the original Spitalfields film
The full film follows the shopping, food and drink stops in sequence. Watch it below for the market atmosphere and the original December 2015 visit.
