Berwick Street Market in Soho in June 1966. (Richard Friedman)
In 1937 the Manchester Guardian complained that London’s open-air markets, including Berwick Street market, had lost some of their character and picturesqueness ever since the oil flares were replaced by electric lights over the stalls. They went on to describe Berwick Street as where Noel Coward bought smart socks and Gertrude Lawrence smart stockings at bargain prices in their early days. Corsets, face cream, glassware, and cheap antiques are also there and in the overflow markets in the little neighbouring alleys.
Berwick Street itself was built probably just short of 1700 and probably named after the Duke of Berwick, an illegitimate son of James II. The market began at some point in the 18th century when shop keepers started to display their wares on the pavement but it wasn’t officially recognised until 1892. Berwick Street market is still running today but perhaps not as thriving as it once was with much re-development going on around the area.
Mid-70s – photo by Jimmy James
1979, by MC Morgan
1979, by MC Morgan
1979, by MC Morgan
25th November 1933
1926
circa 1930: Berwick street market in Soho, London, with stalls selling fruit and vegetables and fur coats and stoles.
1970, actually Rupert Street which in a continuation of the market past Walker’s Court which can be seen in the background.
1972
1978, Ed Sijmons
Berwick St/Broadwick Street, April 1960 – CW Cushman
1968
1955 Cas Oorthuys
1967 JR James Archive
by Ida Kar, 1960-1961
Ian Hendry and Patrick Macnee , 5th December 1960
1978
1976
1976, photo by Klaus Hiltscher
A view of Berwick Street, London, on Sept. 8, 1941, near to Berwick Market.
Greengrocers produce a showcase for suggestive films in Berwick Street market area of Soho 1977
Berwick Street market c.1967
Berwick Street market 1973
With One Elbow Resting On A Hand-trolly Noel Coward Chats With Michael Wilding In Soho’s Berwick Market
22 June 1957
The famous Berwick Market in Soho, London, on Nov. 19, 1928, which will be closed shortly for the construction of two garages.
Would you like to support Flashbak?
Please consider making a donation to our site. We don't want to rely on ads to bring you the best of visual culture. You can also support us by signing up to our Mailing List. And you can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For great art and culture delivered to your door, visit our shop.
