All You Need To Know About Portobello Market

While there are a tonne of brilliant spots in the city for independent shopping, one of the most popular is Portobello Market.

In part due to the role the surrounding area played in the iconic Hugh Grant rom-com Notting Hill and the specific history of the quirky market, this quaint stretch of high street has always been a prime weekend spot for tourists and locals alike.

It’s easy to see why - this area is filled to the brim with a taste of authentic London life and is situated close to brilliant hotels such as the Hotel Park Grand London Hyde Park, giving you plenty of flexibility when it comes to travel.

Below are some of the reasons to visit Portobello Road Market, some specific sites to find there and top tips for getting there.

What is Portobello Road Market?

Running parallel to Ladbroke Grove, Portobello Market is based on the road of the same name and acts as a north-to-south spine of sorts for Notting Hill.

Not only does it act as the perfect road on which to travel through the entirety of the iconic Notting Hill area, but it also hosts its own market selling a variety of products throughout the week.

In the week, the market sells antique furniture and jewellery whilst on the weekend Portobello Market becomes a popular vintage clothes retailer. Dating back to the 18th century, Portobello Road and Market have been and remain an important part of London culture. It’s easy to see why its cosmopolitan, energetic atmosphere, pubs, cafes and more.

Needless to say, it one of the go-to areas in West London for social gatherings and entertainment.

What to buy at Portobello Road

Portobello Market is a famous market, and for good reason!

If you’re on the lookout for some fashionable clothing for yourself or for a one-of-a-kind souvenir for loved ones back home, then this is the perfect market to explore. As the best antique market in London, the value of Portobello is unparalleled in the city.

Mondays to Thursdays

From Monday to Thursday, you’ll find a traditional market experience with fruit and veg stalls selling fresh produce from the local area and London-centric farms. This makes Portobello Market the perfect place to pick up some unique cooking ingredients.

On top of this, you’ll find casual vintage clothes stalls and antiques being sold throughout the market space. Please note: On Thursdays, the market is only open for a half day.

Fridays

On Friday, Portobello Road Southside is focused on antiques whilst the middle section of the road focuses on food, new fashion, accessories, and household goods.

The Portobello Green section of the market is a hub for collectables, bric-a-brac and vintage clothes, whilst the Golborne Road offshoot of the market focuses on furniture.

Saturdays

Saturdays see the opening of the antique arcade, whilst the Portobello Green stalls sell new fashion items.

Over the weekend, Portobello Road is completely packed out with stalls selling a wide range of products. Whatever your needs, Saturday is the best day for a buzzing afternoon, but keep in mind that you should get there early to find the best products!

How to get to Portobello Road

There are several nearby tube stations to Portobello Road.

Ladbroke Grove and Notting Hill Gate both serve the Central Line and Westbourne Park serves the Circle, Hammersmith and City Lines.

What’s more, Portobello Market is just a short walk or bus ride from the best Hyde Park accommodations, making it easy for a quick dip into eclectic London culture.