London’s Portobello Market has long been on the list of ‘good things to do on a Saturday’, but if you prefer vintage clothes to antiques, then Friday is by far the best day to visit. You’ll avoid the crowds, and find a much larger choice of vintage and second-hand clothes.
The best area is the Ladbroke Grove end of Portobello Rd, from the Westway flyover to Golborne Rd. Ladbroke Grove rather than Notting Hill Gate is the closest tube station.
Walking from the station you first come to a huge white canopy, where you can find everything from 1920’s floaty dresses, 50’s–60’s shirt dresses, 80’s jumpsuits through to classic Barbour jackets, Burberry Macs and more quirky modern designer clothes. It’s the place to find a unique piece and quirky vintage shoes, boots, belts & bags.
Directly under the flyover, most stalls sell vintage costume jewellery from the 40’s to the 90’s. There’s the ubiquitous military jackets & uniform stall and a few stalls selling records, new books and the odd collectable.
Continue north along Portobello Rd, and you’ll find a little gem — the long-established cashmere stall sells a colourful range of new and lightly worn jumpers and cardigans from £30. Portobello is probably one of the best places in London to buy cashmere sweaters.
North of Raddington Rd, the clothes are more ‘second-hand’ than vintage but it’s where you’re likely to find a bargain. Prices are cheaper than most central London charity shops.
Head north and you reach Golborne Rd, a lively street overlooked by Goldfinger’s Trellick Tower. On Fridays, antique & junk dealers line the south side of the street. The Moroccan fish and falafel food stalls on the north side are good spots for lunch.
Open: Fridays 8am–4.30pm
Transport
Tube: Ladbroke Grove
Buses: 7, 12, 23, 27, 28, 31, 52, 70 & 328 stop close to Ladbroke Grove tube station.
If you want to walk the length of Portobello Rd, get off at Notting Hill Gate tube. The Westway flyover is a 15–20 minute walk.