Shopping Portobello Market, London

If you’re a fan of flea markets, then set your alarm for 7 am on Saturday to explore the Portobello Market in London. I always have my cab drop me off at the corner of Portobello and Westbourne Grove.  This is where the street becomes blocked off until the bottom of the hill at Elgin Crescent.

This latest visit, I was there at 9, and by the time I left at noon, the crowds were simply a crush. Granted, it was a sunny, warm day …not the usual for London in April.  Everyone was out in force!

There’s basically two parts to this market. One is the stands on the street. They are temporary and set up for the day. You’ll find them brimming with everything from antique silver to crocheted dresses to antique maps and tea sets.

If you’re a fan of flea markets, then set your alarm for 7 am on Saturday to explore the Portobello Market in London.

Then there are the permanent galleries in buildings, which are either a long aisle with a variety of vendors on each side, or a more sprawling layout of aisles with various stalls. Honestly, it’s fascinating.

I am always in search of special pieces of fine jewelry for my shop, The Curated Jewelry Box, and I always manage to find some treasures here. (I wish I had purchased that gold and diamond necklace to the left!!)

In my opinion, you’ll find higher grade goods at the top of the hill. As you wind downward, the wares seem to become cheaper and less desirable. Again, this is my personal experience.

I love to stop at Brasseria for brunch. Their Italian American brunch with a Bellini makes my heart and stomach sing!

I do have a couple of my featured shops in this neighborhood. One is right near the market. The other is a short walk via Westbourne Grove. It’s nestled in a cute area of shops and cafes that you may enjoy exploring. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from the market. If you want access to my little black book of shops, then I encourage you to become a member!

Whether you spend a couple hours or the majority of the day exploring Portobello and Notting Hill, I have no doubt that you’ll enjoy your time.

I do have a couple of my featured shops in this neighborhood. One is right near the market. The other is a short walk via Westbourne Grove.