7 Best Antique markets in London
We all know about the rich history and cultural diversity in London. Heck, we celebrate it! This is one of the reasons London seems to have a never ending line of tourists. Beyond the museums and historic monuments, London offers locations of similar value: Antique markets!
Antique markets give you a wide selection of vintage items, stylish keepsakes and even the occasional valuable piece. You get all this and more at a far better rate than the antique store. So, why visit a store when you can enjoy the perks of the market.
Without further Ado, these are the 7 best Antique markets in London!
7 Best Antique markets in London
- Portobello Road Market
- Camden Passage
- Alfies Antique Market
- Bermondsey Antique Market
- Covent Garden Antiques Market
- Greenwich Vintage Market
- Old Spitalfields Market
Best Antique markets in London
1. Portobello Road Market
This market is one of the iconic markets in London. It is well known for its antique collection which you will find on a busy Saturday afternoon.
The market opens 7 days a week but the weekdays are not as packed as Saturdays. During the week, you can enjoy a leisure stroll while exploring it’s various sections.
On the South end of the road lies your antique items, jewelry, cutleries, stylish accessories and many more. There are many stalls with eye-catching items so you will likely come back with more items than your initial plan.
After this section lies the boutiques and clothing stores. The food lovers and treasure hunters are not left out of the buffet. Classic street fare from London and even other countries can be seen while you walk along the road. The tantalizing aroma of these meals can make you forget the reason you came.
Second hand items and other treasures are waiting for you at the second hand stores.
Highlights:
– Extensive range of antiques and collectibles
– Events and Festivals
Nearest station: Notting Ladbroke Grove, Hill Gate
Location: Notting Hill, London W11 1LJ
2. Camden Passage
This is one of those alleys that look like it came out of a novel. And like a fairytale scene, it transforms almost every day. Wednesdays and Saturdays are the Antique days, Thursdays are for the fashionista crowd while art lovers can feed their eyes on beautiful designs during the Saturday shift. Most artworks on display are also available for sale.
Beyond these ‘market days,’ Camden Passage is active every other day, you can walk into the antique shops and galleries to get some souvenirs. Stylish retro boutiques offer trendy pieces that will add ‘chic’ to your wardrobe. Like all London markets, you can’t leave without tasting any of the delicious fares on display.
This passage offers a unique blend of diverse styles. The wild fashion mix, quirky art ensemble, delicate porcelain items all contributes to its beauty. This is a second home for most local artists and photographers. Furthermore, art events, fairs and many interesting events are a common sight in this passage
Station: Angel, Islington.
Highlights:
– Intimate and picturesque setting
– Valuable antiques and collectibles
Location: 1 Camden Psge, London
3. Alfies Antique Market
In a city like London where everyday is rainy and wet, an indoor market is highly welcomed. Due to its arrangements, the market seems like a maze to the average visitor. There are stalls on every side, each selling their unique wares.
The building was once a department store so there are a lot of places to explore and things to see. It has four floors with over 50 vendors offering a wide range of products. From ancient jewelry, beautiful pottery, stylish designs and creative designs, there’s a lot on display.
These items may be a bit pricey because they are all curated. Rare books and historical items can be found in the right store. At the top of the building lies a cafe. So, you can walk your way there and indulge in a beverage and get a beautiful view of the city.
Highlights:
– Extensive indoor market with a wide range of antiques
– Rooftop café with city views
Station: Marylebone, Edward Road
Location: 13-25 Church Street.
4. Bermondsey Antique Market
Unlike other markets on this list, Bermondsey reminds me of traditional markets which have a specific day and tends to begin at sunrise. Vendors at this antique market open shops as early as 6AM. So, if you are a morning person, you should start your day with a treasure hunt at this market.
Regular patrons call it the New Caledonian market and it’s a favourite spot of artists and antique enthusiasts. Coins from Ancient civilizations, unique jewelry and many significant antique items are on sale.
The market has some excellent dining options for you. Local pubs, bars and other stalls offer you snacks, beverage and a place to cool down.
Highlights:
– Traditional market vibe
– Favored by serious collectors and dealers.
Location: Bermondsey Square,South London.
Tube Station: London Bridge.
5. Covent Garden Antiques Market
There are several antique markets in Covent Garden. You can catch the Apple market in full swing on Mondays. While the usual antique fare are available all through the week, Monday starts the week with a bang! There are quirky collectables and distinct pieces on those days.
Another popular Covent Garden market is the Jubilee market. Like Apple market, Mondays favour antiques and unique keepsakes, Tuesdays to Fridays welcome all wares while Saturday and Sundays are dedicated to Arts and Crafts.
Highlights:
– Variety of antiques, particularly jewelry and silver
– Historic and vibrant setting
Tube Station: Charing Cross, Waterloo Station
Location: Apple market and Jubilee hall, covent garden.
6. Greenwich Vintage Market
This is a blend of the traditional and modern market. It opens on Thursday through Sunday and sells all things unique and delicate. Fashion and beautiful decor pieces can be seen on an average day. You should check out the market on Tuesdays, there are many fancy stuff that you will like. Old lamps, vintage camera, and other priceless pieces that you won’t find on an average day.
There are also food stalls that will quickly take your orders.
Highlights:
– Combination of antiques and vintage items
– Proximity to other Greenwich attractions
Tube Station: Jubilee, Greenwich DLR.
Location: 2 Greenwich Church St, London
7. Old Spitalfields Market
This is a popular market to any lover of London. The street food, lively vendors and performers and the stalls all make this place a destination.
The Market has each day marked for an item. So, Thursday gets to be antique and collectables day. International and local vendors always frequent this market. So, it’s your best chance to get priceless pieces and learn about other cultures while picking the items that catch your fancy.
Homewares, ceramics, Aladdin’s lamp(you might find the genie) and several other pieces are showcased here.
Highlights:
– Antiques and vintage item Thursday
Tube Station: Liverpool street station
Location: 16, Horner Square, London.
Conclusion
A visit to London is always a celebration of history. The architecture, culture, people, they all tell a story about time and its significance. Yet, we can’t take this history back to our homes. We can only capture them in books and pictures but their essence does not stay with us. This is where the antique markets come in! We do not only interact with history but we can easily integrate history into our daily lives.
Each antique market offers a unique experience. So beyond the items and the story that follows them is a personal story, one that connects you to family and friends.
