Portobello Road Market — Attraction in London

For antiques, the best time to visit is Saturday (from 7am to 2pm), and this is the only time that most of the outside stalls, and indoor arcades, are open.

If approaching from Notting Hill tube station, the first part of Portabello Road is very pretty with colorful houses, but you won’t find any antiques until you cross Chepstow Villas and reach Rogers Gallery (the first arcade). After that, you’ll find plenty of stalls, shops and arcades as you go down the hill. When the shops and stalls turn to clothes and food, you’ve missed most of the antiques, although there are a few more stalls further on, between The Westway and Golborne Road.

The best way to enjoy this place is to try and buy a bargain. Ideally something you could sell for a profit if you wanted to. And don’t let a lack of experience, knowledge, or money stop you. It’s not too difficult and it's a great feeling to buy something you think you could sell for more, even if you do decide to keep it for yourself.

Ask questions and chat. The dealers turn up because they enjoy it, and if there’s one thing they like doing almost as much as buying and selling antiques, it’s talking about buying and selling antiques, but best to not get them started on "business isn't what it used to be". If you’re not sure of something’s age or condition, just ask, and you'll (almost always) get good honest information. The exception to this is when you're told the "best price" which is never true. It will always be possibe to negotiate that down.

You’ll find prices range from a couple of pounds to thousands. The majority of items on the stalls and in the arcades sell for between £20 and £100.

All dealers prefer cash. Only a few accept credit cards, but those who don't can always find someone to take a card payment on their behalf. But they may need to...

I quite liked the market and the general area, but it wasn't as big a hit for my in-laws who I was travelling with, who are quite accustomed to street markets in their own country and may have been a bit underwhelmed here and surprised by the prices of things. I purposely chose Saturday morning, since that was described as the best day online by previous visitors. It was pretty crowded already, but I managed it okay. I liked the atmosphere created by the street venders - particularly those who were selling baked goods and fruits and veggies - so there was an authentic sense of a market. I recommend people to not only focus on the street stalls but to venture into the stores on adjacent sides of the road, which have lots of really interesting antiques or clothing. In particular, Alice's looked like a really nice spot! And Sitara caught my eye. Of course, we stopped off for a photograph outside of the Notting Hill Bookshop, from the Julia Roberts/Hugh Grant movie 'Notting Hill' (don't get confused with another bookshop/store that is fake! You'll know the right place when you see it). If the market isn't doing it for you, then be sure to wander down some of the residential streets, where their buildings are beautifully painted in different colours (quite an 'instagramable' spot it seems). Or stop into a café nearby. There are tube stations on either side of the street (Ladbroke Grove at the northern end, Notting Hill Gate at the southern end) so you can easily get there and back again without much additional walking or needing to walk back to where...

Portobello Market in London is a vibrant and bustling place that truly comes alive on Saturdays. As I stepped into the market, I was immediately greeted by a wave of energy and excitement. The atmosphere was electric, with locals and tourists alike exploring the maze of stalls and shops that stretched along Portobello Road.

One thing that struck me about Portobello Market was the sheer variety of things available for sale. From vintage clothing and antiques to fresh produce and handmade crafts, there was something to suit every taste and interest. It was a treasure trove for collectors, with countless stalls showcasing unique and eclectic items from different eras.

The market was teeming with people, creating a lively and bustling ambiance. It was a delightful experience to navigate through the crowds, discovering hidden gems and engaging in friendly haggling with the vendors. The vibrant mix of cultures and languages added to the market's charm, making it a truly international melting pot.

Whether you're a seasoned vintage enthusiast or simply looking for a unique souvenir, Portobello Market offers a delightful shopping experience. The lively atmosphere, coupled with the wide range of goods available, ensures that there's always something new and exciting to discover. Just be prepared for the crowds on Saturdays, as it can get quite busy. Nevertheless, the energy and variety make it all worth it. Portobello Market is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of London's eclectic and vibrant...