In this article, I present the Portobello Road MarketLondon's premier antique market!
Here you'll find
- A presentation of the Portobello Road Market
- What you can see and find on this market
- How to reach him easily
- Practical information: prices, opening hours, visit tips
- Things to see and do in the area
- And much more!
If you're looking for information about Portobello Road Market, you'll love this article.
Follow the guide!
Portobello Road Market: article summary
Portobello Road Market: London's most famous antiques market
For antique lovers visiting London, it is unthinkable to miss the Portobello Road Market ! It's the biggest market of its kind in the world, with more than 1,000 stalls set up on the site. about 3 km.
And it's not all old stuff at this famous market: clothes, crafts, souvenirs, old games, jewelry, fruit and vegetables and street food stalls will delight the most curious. Let me introduce you to a market known to all Londoners!
Introducing the Portobello Road Market
Visit Portobello Road Market is located on Portobello Street, in the very chic Notting Hill district. While today it's an ultra-popular market for tourists and locals alike, this wasn't always the case.
Originally, the site was simply a simple country road called Green Lane. The name Portobello Road comes from a nearby farm (located on today's Golborne Road), itself named after the town of Portobello. Porto Bello in Panama, captured by the English on November 21, 1739.
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The contract is drawn up in 1837 and remained a fruit and vegetable stall until after the Second World War, when vendors began selling used goods. As a result, its reputation as a antiques market and the market gradually took on its current shape.
From now on, stands and stores are spread over several kilometers, in the main street and in some of its arterial roads. If you're the sort of person who enjoys flea markets, rummaging around, bargaining and discovering unusual objects, this is a must-see in London!
Market facts and figures
- No. 142 Portobello Road is home to the library of Hugh Grant's character in the film love at first sight in Notting Hill
- The in 1927 it is decided that the market will open from Monday to Saturday, despite protests from shopkeepers
- On the Portobello Road, you will find the oldest Pub in the neighborhood, The Sun In Splendouropened in 1850
What can you see and find at Portobello Road Market?
Visit Portobello Road Market is a wonderful catch-all which gives the impression that you'll find something at every stand! It's divided into several zones, which I'd like to introduce to you.
The antiques market
In the main part of the Portobello Road Marketyou'll find 1001 things! Objects from the early 20th century, kitchen utensils from the past, coins, stamps, vintage decorations, items whose function you won't even know, wooden toys, old games, dusty books, posters from yesteryear and much, much more!
A true paradise for those who like to rummage through old items, which might bring back fond memories of their youth.
The fashion zone
You can find clothing of all kinds at this market: creations by young designers wanting to test the appeal of their creation on t-shirts I love London to brand-name, second-hand items.
It's always cheaper than a trip to Liberty !
The brocante section
You'll find everything in this section, with its many stalls. Fans of retro video games or figurines will be in heaven, and you'll be able to pick up a wide range of souvenirs. Ã low prices or get something to decorate your home for just a few pounds.
It's the place for the inquisitive, those who like to haggle and indulge in guilty little purchases while on vacation. There's nothing wrong with that, and this is the best place to do it!
The street food zone
In the north of the market, on the Ladbroke Grove side, you'll discover the area dedicated to food. Numerous sweet stalls (pastries, muffins, churros, English-style cakes and cupcakes) line the aisles, to the delight of food-lovers.
There are also more exotic specialtiessuch as Lebanese falafel, Indian curry (as at Brick Lane), burgers, paella and Asian specialities (as at Chinatown), to delight every palate.
How do I get to Portobello Road Market in London?
Portobello Road Market is located at the following address: Portobello Road, London W11 1LJ
It's very easy to get there, by choosing one of the following means of transport:
- The metroCircle and Hammersmith & City lines, Ladbroke Grove stop (north) and Central, Circle and Distric lines, Notting Hill Gate stop (south)
- By buswith nos. 7, 12, 23, 27, 28, 31, 70, 94 and 328
Portobello Road Market: prices, opening hours and practical information
Here's some additional information to help you make the most of your visit to Portobello Road Market.
Rates and budget
Given the diversity of this market, there's something for everyone. for all budgets. You'll find second-hand items for just a few pounds, as well as vintage items at rock-bottom prices!
Opening hours
Portobello Road Market runs Monday to Saturday, from 8am to around 6/7pm, closing at 1pm on Thursdays. However, from Monday to Thursday, many traders don't make the trip.
It's best to go on Friday or, even better, Saturday, when the market is open. the most complete. Sure, it's crowded, but it's the best time to make the most of it!
Visiting tips and practical information
By taking your time, you'll be able to move easily from half-day stroll through Portobello Road Market.
Bring a backpack for your shopping, some spare change...and a little gumption for negotiating prices...!
What to see and do in the area?
There's a lot to discover in the market area. Here are a few suggestions:
- Visit the Notting Hill districtfor its beautiful facades, its iconic pub (the Churchill Arms) or the fascinating Museum of Advertising and Packaging.
- Discover the Kensington Palace to the southeast and its superb park
- Walk to Hyde Park to take advantage of this green space adored by Londoners
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