Of bustling London markets and quaint finds
During a recent visit to London, a pit stop at one of London’s most popular street markets to experience its vibrant atmosphere and exciting arts & crafts scene was at the top of our agenda!
On a quest to discover captivating designs and quaint vintage curios, we made a beeline for lively Portobello Road in Notting Hill on a lovely Saturday to experience its world-famous street market in full swing.
The tantalizing whiff of a chocolate and strawberry crepe being whipped up at one of the many street food stalls…
The animated calls of vendors as they tempted us with their enticing wares…Antiques glinting in the afternoon light…
The amusing shenanigans of street performers as they displayed their singing or dancing talent…
The market spilled onto Portobello Road with an energy that drew us in completely!
We were spoilt for choice at the sprawling Portobello Road Market with stalls that offered everything ranging from vintage themed posters and quaint home décor accessories, to music, clothes, jewellery and other bric-a-brac. We also peeked in at the delightful independent stores and boutiques lining Portobello Road, hoping for a unique find!
The highlight of Portobello Road Market however is its Saturday Antiques Market flush with china, silverware, books and other collectibles which tempt you to empty your pockets for a great bargain!
After a day well spent at the market with a shopping bag full of treasured trinkets, there’s no better way to round off an afternoon in London than by indulging in a pot of quintessential English tea with freshly baked scones, jam and a slathering of clotted cream!
Having had a chance to soak in the magic of Portobello Road, other London markets on our go-to list are quirky Camden Lock market (An eclectic market with stalls offering vintage fashion, arts & crafts and food), Greenwich market (A colorful market known for its distinctive designers, arts & crafts, antiques and food), and Borough Market (A gourmet food market famous for its fresh produce including fruits, vegetables, meats and cheese, along with delectable bakery treats and other street food). Next trip perhaps?
Closer home, the Sunday Soul Santé, Kitsch Mandi and exhibitions at the Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath (Including the annual Chitra Santhe – a renowned street side art exhibition) offer a flavor of the flea market experience, along with the chance to discover interesting new designers and go home with a knick-knack or two!
Which London markets would you like to visit? Any interesting ones to add to the list?
– Written by Namratha Jagadish for The Purple Turtles.
Image Sources:
http://www.portobelloroad.co.uk/
http://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/place/470049-notting-hill-and-portobello-road-market
http://www.visitlondon.com/things-to-do/shopping/market/londons-top-markets