Portobello Road Market Overview

The Portobello Road Market, located in Notting Hill, London, is renowned as one of the most iconic street markets worldwide. This six-day market attracts visitors, particularly on Saturdays, where over 1,000 antique vendors display a myriad of items, including furniture and collectibles. Spanning a narrow stretch of over two miles, Portobello Road boasts well-established independent boutiques. Families can enjoy the antique stalls on Saturday, explore various arcades, stroll through galleries, and dine at the charming cafés lining the streets.

Antiques Section

At the northern end of Portobello Road, near the Notting Hill tube station, sits the famous antique market. As you make your way past delightful Mews houses, you will reach the junction of Chepstow Villas and Portobello Road. Here, the antique section commences, leading you on a half-mile journey to Elgin Crescent. Expect an impressive assortment of antiques and collectibles, with origins dating from Roman times to the 1960s. With hundreds of market stalls, shops, arcades, and cafés, you could easily spend several hours or even dedicate an entire day to exploration.

Fruit and Vegetable Market

As you continue down Portobello Road, which is an actual incline, you will discover the vibrant fruit and vegetable market. This lively scene resembles a traditional farmers market in the United States, primarily catering to the local community seeking fresh produce. However, tourists are also welcome to sample fresh fruits for a picnic lunch or purchase vegetables to cook later at their rental accommodations. Bakeries, fishmongers, and artisanal cheese stalls enhance the food experience at the corner of Talbot Road and Portobello Road.

Secondhand Flea Market

Under the Westway, an elevated highway, you will come across a diverse selection of secondhand clothing, jewelry, books, and music. While this portion of the market may appear a bit worn, it is safe and definitely worth visiting for bargain hunters. Fridays feature stalls selling vintage clothing and homewares, while Saturdays spotlight junior designer clothing and handmade crafts. If you visit on Sundays, make sure to check out the traditional flea market, which is the only section open on that day, aside from shops and food vendors along the street.

Portobello Antiques Dealers Association London (PADA)

The Portobello Antiques Dealers Association, established over 20 years ago, promotes the antique shopping district of Portobello Road and Westbourne Grove. The association ensures fair trading practices among its members and the public. All traders adhere to a code of conduct regarding the description and pricing of goods. If you do not see a displayed price, feel free to request the price guide to ensure consistent pricing. While bargaining is acceptable, it is important to remain respectful. For a secure purchasing experience, look for vendors displaying the PADA symbol on their shops and market stalls.

Shopping Times and Tips

Portobello Market operates from 8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday, though hours may vary based on weather conditions. Although the official guide suggests Saturday openings as early as 5:30 a.m., it is advisable to plan for breakfast in the area before the actual 8:00 a.m. start, allowing you to browse stalls before crowds typically gather around 11:30 a.m. Note that the antique market officially closes at 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays, but many stallholders begin packing up around 4:00 p.m. Additionally, the market is closed on UK bank holidays as well as Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Parking is limited in the area, so opting for public transportation is recommended. The Journey Planner can assist you in preparing your route. Since the Westway area tends to be cooler, even on sunny days, consider bringing a sweater if you plan to explore the bargain area. Also, be mindful that bags and valuables are targets for pickpockets in crowded places, so keep your belongings secure and do not leave your shopping unattended at any café.