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Portobello Road Market

Explore London’s iconic Portobello Road Market, a vibrant blend of antiques, vintage fashion, fresh food, and lively street culture in Notting Hill.

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Portobello Road Market in London’s Notting Hill is a vibrant, historic street market famous for its antiques, vintage fashion, fresh food stalls, and eclectic bric-a-brac. Open daily from 8am to 7pm, it reaches its peak on Saturdays when over 1,500 stalls line the street, attracting locals and tourists alike. The market offers a rich cultural experience blending shopping, street food, and lively atmosphere in one of London’s most iconic neighborhoods.

A brief summary to Portobello Road Market

  • London, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 8 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Saturday for the full market experience with over 1,500 stalls, especially antiques and vintage fashion.
  • For a quieter visit with better vintage finds, go on a Friday morning before the weekend crowds arrive.
  • Use public transport—Ladbroke Grove or Notting Hill Gate tube stations—to avoid limited parking and traffic restrictions.
  • Bring cash for bargaining at antique stalls, but many vendors also accept cards.
  • Check for special market Sundays during summer and winter for extended shopping and festive atmospheres.
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Getting There

  • London Underground

    Take the Hammersmith and City line to Ladbroke Grove station, a short 5-10 minute walk to the market. Alternatively, use the Central, Circle, or District lines to Notting Hill Gate station, about a 15-20 minute walk. Trains run frequently with fares typically between £2.50-£5.00 depending on time and card used.

  • Bus

    Multiple London bus routes serve Portobello Road, including routes 7, 12, 23, 27, 28, 52, 70, 94, 328, and 452. Buses run every 10-20 minutes with standard London bus fares around £1.65 per trip using contactless payment.

  • Car

    Driving is not recommended due to heavy congestion, very limited parking, and frequent road closures on market days. If necessary, expect to pay high parking fees nearby and allow extra time for walking to the market.

  • Walking

    If staying nearby in Notting Hill or Kensington, walking to Portobello Market is pleasant and accessible, typically taking 10-30 minutes depending on your location. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Portobello Road Market location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Portobello Road Market

A Historic Hub of Commerce and Culture

Portobello Road Market, nestled in the heart of Notting Hill, London, traces its origins back to the 19th century, making it one of the city’s oldest and most treasured markets. Its name derives from the street it occupies, stretching from Westbourne Grove to Golborne Road and beyond. Over the decades, it has evolved into a bustling marketplace known for its vast array of antiques, vintage clothing, fresh produce, and unique collectibles. This market is not just a shopping destination but a cultural landmark reflecting the diverse and creative spirit of London.

The Market’s Dynamic Weekly Rhythm

The market operates every day from 8am to 7pm, with traders typically setting up between 8:30am and 6pm. However, the character of the market shifts throughout the week. Monday to Wednesday focus on fresh fruit, vegetables, and household goods, particularly between Elgin Crescent and the Westway, with occasional vintage clothing stalls. Thursdays offer a shorter trading day, closing by early afternoon. Fridays and Saturdays are the market’s busiest days, featuring the full spectrum of stalls including antiques, vintage fashion, bric-a-brac, and street food. Saturday is especially iconic, drawing over 1,500 stalls and crowds eager to explore antiques arcades, farmers’ markets, and fashion vendors under the famous Portobello Green canopy.

A Treasure Trove for Antique and Vintage Enthusiasts

Portobello Road Market is renowned worldwide for its antique stalls. On Fridays and Saturdays, collectors and trendsetters flock here to browse hundreds of stalls selling everything from rare collectibles to vintage clothing by iconic brands like Burberry and Ralph Lauren. The antiques arcades, open mostly on Saturdays, offer a more curated experience. For vintage fashion lovers, the market is a hotspot to discover unique pieces and accessories, making it a magnet for fashionistas and celebrities alike. The market also encourages bargaining, adding to the thrill of the hunt.

A Feast for the Senses: Food and Atmosphere

Beyond antiques and fashion, the market is a lively food destination. Fresh fruit and vegetable stalls operate mainly early in the week, while Fridays and Saturdays feature an array of street food vendors offering international flavors and local delicacies. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by street musicians, artists, and a diverse crowd that includes locals, tourists, and celebrities. The blend of sights, sounds, and smells creates an immersive experience that captures the essence of London’s multicultural identity.

Accessibility and Surroundings

Portobello Road Market is well connected by public transport. The nearest London Underground stations are Ladbroke Grove on the Hammersmith and City line and Notting Hill Gate on the Central, Circle, and District lines, both within walking distance. Numerous bus routes serve the area. Due to limited parking and traffic restrictions on market days, public transport is the recommended way to visit. The market area is pedestrian-friendly, with many cafes and shops open throughout the week, offering places to rest and refresh.

Special Events and Seasonal Variations

The market hosts special events such as Winter Sundays in December and Summer Sundays during the warmer months, extending trading hours and adding festive elements. Bank holidays generally see closures except for Good Friday. The market’s dynamic nature means that each visit can reveal new stalls, products, and experiences, encouraging repeat visits and exploration.

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