"There will always be a place to buy fish from in London. It might not be here and it probably won't be called Billingsgate but it will continue." The news that London's oldest fish market is facing permanent closure has shocked and saddened the tenants at Billingsgate Fish Market.

Two of London’s oldest markets, Billingsgate and Smithfield, will cease operations by 2028, marking the end of traditions dating back to the 11th century. The City of London Corporation announced Wednesday it will relinquish its responsibilities for the markets and compensate traders as they transition to independent operations.

Two of London’s most famous markets — one selling fish, the other meat — are set to close in the coming years, bringing an end to traditions stretching back to medieval times.