Billingsgate

Billingsgate, a gate, wharf, and fish-market, a little below London Bridge, to the west of the custom-house. It was opened in 1558 as a landing-place for provisions; and in 1699 was made 'a free and open market for all sorts of fish.' The present handsome stone building was finished in 1874. The unpolished phraseology native, though not peculiar, to this quarter of London, has given rise to the proverbial use of the name.