The history of Portobello Road Market dates back to the 1830s. At this time, it was a classic street market selling food. Today, this street in the district of Notting Hill filled to the brim with stalls all along one kilometre combines several markets in one.
The most famous is without doubt the antique market. The professionals dedicated to this sector began arriving in this part of the city around 1960. If it is your intention, whether out of curiosity or because you loved Bedknobs and Broomsticks when you were a child, is to snoop around the thousands of paintings, medals and antique objects and curiosities that fill the stalls, then save Saturday, the only day they open. Of course, you do not have to get up too early, but remember that around 11.30 this part of the market begins to fill up with people. If your visit does not coincide with a Saturday, do not worry because although the market will not be there, many of the shops open all week, so you will also be able to have a browse at their antique books, jewels, furniture and clocks…
Another tip: if you want to travel by tube, the nearest station to the antique market is Notting Hill Gate. At the junction between Portobello Road and Westbourne Grove, you will find an information stand where you can get maps and advice if you are looking for something specific.
If you continue your route going down the hill you will come across the food stalls. Many locals from the surrounding area buy their quality fruit and vegetables there, although they also sell other goods, such as cheese, bread and fish. It breathes a traditional atmosphere, with old-fashioned barrows filled with crates of produce and sellers shouting out their bargains. Late on Saturday is the perfect time to get the best bargains, since the traders need to get rid of the perishable stock.
The next change occurs under the bridge of the Westway overpass. If you are interested in fashion and seeking out London’s most modern side, you should come to this part, where many young designers look for their big chance selling items from the collections at very affordable prices. Shoes and other complements complete the supply here.
Alongside the stalls of the designers, many shops and stalls are crowded together where you can buy second-hand clothes. If you delve into this ocean of fabrics a little, you might be lucky and go home with one or two unique vintage garments.
Have a drink in any of the cafés around while taking in the atmosphere to the full. Few markets have as much charm as Portobello Road, so we recommend you not to miss it for anything!
