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 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, signigying 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.
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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