Notting Hill is bustling with several markets and stores specialising in their own vintage finds, with hundreds per day visiting, it can sometimes seem like a daunting task when you begin to think about where to begin. We have put down our choice three to help put your mind at ease.
PORTOBELLO ROAD MARKET
Quite different from other popular markets in London (such as Camden or Brixton which sell mostly clothes, trinkets and food), fine antique jewellery, 19th century Wedgwood china, vintage Rolexes and historical medical, marine and scientific equipment can all be bought and sold at this world-class antiques market. The market traders here have have seen all sorts of people peruse their goods; if you’re lucky enough, the traders in the Rogers Antiques Gallery – many of whom have had a stall since the 60s – are particularly happy to regale you with tales of the opera singers, football players and movie stars who have bought from them. The market is open Friday to Saturday, but the best antique stalls are open Saturday only.
Visitportobello.com
RETRO WOMAN
It may look a little rough-and-tumble from the outside, but this excellent vintage and second-hand store is a designer gold-mine. Close to Notting Hill Gate station, RetroWoman (and two numbers down, its companion store, RetroMan) is bursting with pieces you might not be able to leave behind from both heritage and modern fashion-houses: you may even find yourself rubbing shoulders with an off-duty model or two as you peruse the shelves. Even better, the thrifty prices will have your hand inching towards your credit card and asking yourself, ‘really, how could I not..?’
Mfeshops.com
HIRST ANTIQUES
Described by owner Amanda Wrigley as “a jewellery museum where you can actually buy things” a visit to legendary Notting Hill shop Hirst Antiques is a bit like stumbling upon an Aladdin’s cave. The stores’ jewellery buyers are almost constantly on the look-out for pieces that are striking, unusual or rare, meaning you are almost guaranteed to depart with a piece no one else will have.
Thehirstcollection.com
OXFAM BOUTIQUE
Possibly the best thrift store in London, fashion crowds from across the city flock here to find designer cast-offs and pristine vintage pieces. Located nearby Portobello Road Market, the store is as chic as any Notting Hill boutique and as you leave with a new designer bag over your arm, you’ll have given back to an excellent cause.
Oxfam.org.uk
ROUGH TRADE
The original branch of this iconic record store, the staff here seem to have an almost encyclopedic knowledge of music genres from around the world and who are more than willing to help you in your search for that hard-to-find vinyl, or give you a pretty substantial list of recommendations. Now a rather more genteel spot than it’s 70s punk heyday, you’ll find Rough Trade well-organised and well-stocked.
Roughtrade.com
From rare antiques to retro designer fashion and classic rare to find vinyl, Notting Hill truly is a treasure trove of many different niches. Every visit promises to offer you something new and exciting.
