 
Evidence of the First London Bridge built by the Romans with a settlement to the north of the river and in Lambeth.
City of Londinium flourishes around the area we know as the monument.
Late in the first century, a basilica (law courts) and forum (market place) built on where Leadenhall Market stands today. It is the largest such site North of the Alps and occupied an area bigger than that of Trafalgar Square. |  |
After the Romans left, much of London was left in ruins and little is known of its history throughout the Dark Ages.
It is not until 1309 where the Manor of Leadenhall is first listed, as belonging to Sir Hugh Neville.
By 1321, the area around Leadenhall manor is a known meeting place for poulterers. They are joined, in 1397 by cheesemongers.
In 1411 the site is acquired by Richard 'Dick' Whittington, the mayor of London. The site grows in importance as a granary and a chapel are built to service those coming to the market.
In 1463, the beam for the tronage and weighing of wool is fixed at Leadenhall market, signifying its importance as a centre for commerce. In 1488 it is decided that leather is sold only from Leadenhall Market.
In 1622, cutlery is made available only from Leadenhall Market.
The Great Fire of 1666 destroys much of the city of London, including parts of the market. When it is rebuilt not long after, it becomes a covered structure for the first time and is divided into the Beef Market, the Green Yard and the Herb Market.
The building is knocked down again in 1881 and redesigned by Sir Horace Jones (architect of Billingsgate and Smithfield Markets). Wrought iron and glass replace the previous stone structure.
A celebrated character in Leadenhall during the 18th century was 'Old Tom', a goose which managed to escape execution even though it is recorded that 34,000 geese were slaughtered there in two days. He became a great favourite in the market and was fed at the local inns. After his death in 1835 at the age of 38, he lay in state in the market and was buried there.
In 1991, Leadenhall Market was extensively restored
Hollywood notices the charms of Leadenhall in 2001 when it is used as Diagon Alley in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. |
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