Portobello Road Market ★★☆
The granddaddy of British antiques markets—though there's a little bit of everything
The granddaddy of British antiques markets (though there's a little bit of everything), vast and bustling and in a choice neighborhood.
London's most popular street market attracts antique collectors, bargain hunters, and lots of tourists (come early to beat the tour buses; it opens at 5:30am, but 9am will do fine).
The outdoor fruit and veggie market runs all week (except Sunday), but on Saturdays the market balloons into an enormous flea and antiques mart.
About 90 antique shops line the roads around here, so even during the week you can browse their dusty treasures (serious shoppers pick up the Saturday Antique Market guide).
The deals aren't what they once were—this has become largely for serious buyers of antiques, not folks looking to pick up a battered "old-ish" stick of furnishings.
Portobello Road Tours
It's no surprise that Notting Hill is featured so prominently in the movies. The cobblestone streets and Victorian homes evoke a particular image that is distinctly London. Meanwhile, Notting Hill's Portobello Market is among London's best-known, yet it can be difficult to navigate—even for locals. This Notting Hill Tour will showcase some of the area's highlights, including cute cafes, well-stocked spice markets, bountiful produce, ample antiques, and some of the city's best pubs, while also revealing the history of the famed locale with a local social historian.
- Notting HIll Tour reveals the distinct feel of this quintessential London neighborhood.
- Led by a social historian and true Londoner.
- Shopping opportunities abound in Portobello Market.
Notting Hill Tour
Getting an early start, we may fuel up with a delicious breakfast while learning the history of the market and area at The Lazy Daisy Café, or get started right away down Portobello Road. This area, originally known as Green's Lane or Turnpike Lane, was turned into a farm in 1740, being named after Puerto Bello in the Caribbean in memory of Admiral Vernon, who captured the town in 1739.
In the Market
We will peruse some of the antique stalls on our way to the main food section of the market. Along the way, we will stop at some of the delightful delicatessens and highlight other specialty shops, including The Spice Shop and Books for Cooks, the ultimate cookbook haven. Winding back to Notting Hill Gate, we will make a brief stop at the Notting Hill Farmers' Market, which is often overlooked in favor of its more famous cousin despite its (arguably) superior culinary finds. Serving as one of the largest farmers' markets in London, you'll have your pick of some of the city's best produce.
Looking to explore another characteristic London neighborhood? See the hip part of town on our London East End Tour. Want to see more markets? Try our Borough Market Tour.
Take Aways
From there, we will escape the frenzy in one of two ways: either in one of the quieter streets of Notting Hill, packed with beautiful flower-covered pubs (we like the The Churchill Arms), or by heading into Kensington Gardens, perfect for a cup of tea at The Orangery at Kensington Palace. Looking back on our tour, we'll come away with a rich history of this distinct neighborhood—and likely a few keepsakes, as well.
FAQ
Where do we meet? Where does it end?
Generally speaking, the walk begins near Notting Hill Gate. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map, and 24/7 phone number. The walk typically ends at The Churchill Arms, or Kensington Gardens.
What if it’s raining?
Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your docent will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.
Is this tour good for kids?
Yes! We have some excellent family friendly docents who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children such as favorite school subjects, and hobbies. This way we can match you with the best possible docent.
Is there time for shopping?
This is more of a neighborhood tour, than a shopping tour. Feel free to make a few purchases if something catches your eye, but if you’re interested in browsing, we suggest exploring Portobello Market on your own after the tour. The market is open 09:00 – 19:00 Friday and Saturday.
