A Mini Guide To: Portobello Road

When I think of places that are iconic in London, I would definitely say the Portobello Road is high on that list. The colourful painted houses, the market, the antique shops, everything. I’ve wandered around the area a fair few times, and it’s a lovely way to spend a few hours. Made famous perhaps by films such as Notting Hill and About Time, Portobello Road is the staple of any visit to London, as is evidence by the numerous tourists wandering around, just like me.

There are two parts to Portobello Road, really. depending on which station you get off at. From Notting Hill Gate Station, you can get to all of the cute antique shops, like Alice’s (my personal favorite), which sells lots of gorgeous china and various bits and bobs. The Notting Hill end of Portobello Road is a little quieter I think, and has a bit of a different vibe than if you walk further down toward Ladbroke Grove. That’s where you’ll find more shops like Cath Kidston, Jack Willis, and American Apparel. There are a lot of independent shops to peek into as well, which is a bonus. I always find this bit of Portobello Road to be much busier! The whole road is a medley of shops and stalls, selling clothing, housewares, food,  books, and all manner of little treasures.

On either side of the main road, you can wander off and find all manner of little side streets with pretty houses. Colville Terrace, Elgin Crescent, Lansdowne Crescent, St. Luke’s Mews, it never ends! You can even find the blue door and the bookshop from Notting Hill! It’s such a colorful place, with so much character! If you are visiting London, this is the one place you should definitely go exploring!

Portobello Road Market is located at Portobello Road, London, W10 5TA. More information here.