I visited Old Spitalfields Market on Saturday, I didn't think it was open that day, but as it turns out it was their first time opening on a Saturday in 100 years a stallholder told me. I got a pair of gorgeous booties for my newborn niece, a broach, a pashmina scarf, an old rock LP, and a really scrummy pie and more bits and bobs. It's great for xmas pressies, I found a lot of small things for cheap, and you're supporting independent designers/ local economy. It was really busy and there was a great atmosphere, it was not too cold. The Pearly King was there and was really friendly. Loads of families too. I love shopping and I found there was great variety there - loads of young designers. It's fab to see young designers out there selling their stuff despite the fact that we're living in new 'Austerity Britain'. It's brilliant news that Old SPitalfields is open 7 days now - I can't wait to come back. I highly recommend it for Londoners and visitors. Check their website, but it's right next to the other Spitalfields - it has more market stalls.

Visiting Old Spitalfields Market was more fun and far less exhausting than cooking a meal for my entire family. A mix of restaurants, cafes and fresh market produce high-quality, affordable food that was absolutely delicious. You could choose from delicious looking savoury dishes, artisan breads, organic meats and lots of fair-trade products. Chefs at Old Spitalfields Market prepare a huge range of international dishes; Patatas bravas, crab with linguine or just a bacon sandwich. One of my favourite restaurants to eat at is Las Iguanas which boasts a vibrant setting to add to the general buzz of Old Spitalfields Market. It also has a huge variety of delicious authentic dishes from Brazil, Peru and Argentina. For people who love South American food, like myself, it’s heaven. The first time I went to Old Spitalfields Market I went into The Yorkshire Crisp Company immediately- my husband loves Kettlechips so freshly homecooked crisps were ideal to buy for him. They make interesting flavours such as Parsley and Black Pepper and Chardonnay Wine Vinegar – it’s no wonder that the stall was thriving with customers. Taking my mother to Old Spitalfields was indeed a risk but she loved every minute of it especially TeaSmith which has some of the world’s most unusual teas that are prepared in front of you. Even nicer, amazing chocolates can be served with your tea- it’s really worth trying it out. I gather from my son that CrepeAffaire is simply the best crepe house in London. You can choose between savoury and sweet crepes with different fillings, children love it so it’s perfect for a family day out. I’m planning on going to Sweet Basil next week, a cosy Italian pizzeria that I’ve heard offers mouth-watering Italian cooking. For me, Old Spitalfields Market is more that a simple food market; it’s a whole day of fun for myself, my husband and my children. The food really is excellent and it’s well worth going there, if only for a few hours, just to see what’s on offer.

I went to Old Spitalfields Market expecting to see a mix of vintage and designer, the quirky and the chic, and I wasn’t disappointed. Based in London’s trendy East End, it’s home to market stalls and shops alike. Amazing creations pop up everywhere, all with their own unique design. Compare it to the chaos of Camden market or Portobello Road and Old Spitalfields Market is the epitome of cool. A mix of labels and second-hand clothing, there is definitely something for everyone. A shop I really liked was Behave, full of African inspired fabrics that are transformed into gorgeous softly tailored skirts, dresses and tops. I also noticed some great men’s jackets and shirts- always good for presents. What else caught my eye? The jeans. Well made, well fitting jeans are hard to come by. It’s worth checking them out. I also spent an hour in Agnes B, a French designer who adapts classical styles with cutting edge designs to create some great couture like pieces. A quick peek turned into a good half an hour when I looked inside Fairy Goth Mother. Not usually the style I go for however I was surprised by what I saw. I had stepped into what must be one of the largest collections of corsets in the UK. Beautifully made lingerie, some very stylish evening dresses and designer corsets made this shop one of my favourites. Although eccentric, the designer has added a chic, fashionable twist, making the clothes look very individual. Another interesting shop was Komodo, a fair trade store that must be inspired by Tibet as they use wonderful vibrant colours but they don’t give you a headache... Some great dresses too, especially for when you’re on holiday. A typically cool looking shop I looked into was Sniff, a small boutique which any discerning shoe lover will instantly adore. Modern, state-of-the-art heels can be bought alongside comfy, casual pumps- this shop is a must-see. Old Spitalfields Market is a world in itself and I can’t emphasize how much any fashion lover will adore it!