South London’s much-loved Model Market is gearing up for a major comeback in spring 2026. The legendary street-food market is set to return bigger, better and bolder than ever – and local traders can now apply to get involved.
Model Market will transform the site at Lewisham Shopping Centre, taking inspiration from its original 1950s market style – with retro shopfronts, string lights and its signature gritty-meets-artsy aesthetic – to create a buzzing communal atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and new.
The relaunch will recapture everything that made the market a local favourite: authenticity, inclusivity, great food, good music and that unmatchable Lewisham energy. It will also introduce fresh new concepts, establishing a hub for independent kitchens, local makers, and creative spaces.
The new Model Market will celebrate small-scale, big-hearted traders. Each space will offer a unique micro-dining or retail experience – from street-food favourites to innovating emerging vendors.
Organisers are inviting street-food traders, independent chefs, drinks partners, bakers, artists and makers to register their interest in joining the new Model Market, which is due to launch spring 2026. Applications are especially encouraged from traders local to Lewisham and neighbouring areas to reinforce the market’s strong community roots and celebrate South London creativity.
Businesses can apply via https://www.modelmarket.london/ until 1st March 2026
The revived Model Market will serve more than food, it will be a social hub in the heart of Lewisham, delivering DJ sets and genre-spanning music, alongside a host of events, pop-ups and cultural programming that blends food, music and art.
By honouring the original architecture and preserving the site’s time-worn patina, the market will retain the character and charm that made it iconic while introducing a bold new visual identity.
A spokesperson at Model Market, said: “Model Market is about bringing people together and celebrating the energy, creativity and spirit of the local community. We’re incredibly excited to revive the Model Market at Lewisham and give it a fresh new chapter. With a nostalgic design inspired by mid-century shopfronts and a commitment to modern, sustainable values, the new Model Market will feel both timeless and completely new – a reimagined street market for a new generation.
“We want to champion local talent, and whether you’re running a kitchen concept, a small shop, or planning community events, we’d love to hear from brands who want to help shape Lewisham’s next great social space.”
Paul Redden, Centre Director at Lewisham Shopping Centre, said: “Model Market was a much-loved destination that still holds a special place in the hearts of the community. Its revival marks an important moment for the town centre – one that not only celebrates our heritage, but embraces new opportunities for culture, food and the community. Model Market will bring its unique vibrancy to Lewisham once more, and it’s an honour to be supporting this initiative and create a space where local businesses can thrive and the community can connect in meaningful, memorable ways.”
Model Market is designed to celebrate Lewisham’s past while championing its future, spotlighting the area’s entrepreneurial talent and diverse cultural influences. Applications for businesses to apply close 1st March 2026. For more information about the Model Market, and to sign up to the newsletter for updates, please visit: https://www.modelmarket.london/
