London is home to a vibrant array of antique stores and markets filled with treasures sourced from all corners of the world, alongside beautifully crafted designer pieces and vintage collectibles. Even if antiques aren’t your thing, these distinctive venues provide an enchanting look into our past, showcasing an era when artists and designers took great pride in their creations. Moreover, these shops offer a fascinating insight into the lifestyles and trading practices of people from earlier times.
Below we list a few of the most notable antiques markets, flea markets and vintage shops London has to offer.
Antique Markets
Portobello Road Market
One of the oldest and colourful of London’s markets, Portobello Road is a charming and vibrant street located in Notting Hill, well-known for the movie that shares its name. The road is lined with stunning pastel-coloured Victorian terraced houses, including the former home of George Orwell who resided at no.22.
Portobello market is celebrated for its vintage clothing, delicious food, unique antiques and quirky nik-nak stalls. The market itself offers a treasure trove of eclectic finds, from retro fashion pieces to rare collectibles, making it a haven for treasure hunters and casual shoppers alike.
Portobello Road Market has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally a food market, it later became a haven for antique dealers in the 1940s and 50s. These dealers saw the potential to showcase and sell their goods, which in turn attracted a large number of antique lovers to the bustling area.
Today, the market has become one of the largest antiques markets worldwide, boasting a vast array of shops and stalls that offer a diverse selection of items.
As you stroll along the bustling thoroughfare, the enticing aromas from food vendors, mingle with the sounds of buskers and the occasional street performer.
Getting an early start is ideal for avoiding the crowds, Saturdays are particularly lively. Most shops and stalls are open for business at 9:00am, if you arrive early, you can enjoy a coffee and bite to eat at one of the many local cafes before beginning your shop.
Be aware the main road is closed off to traffic during market operating hours, 10:00am to 4:00pm Monday to Saturday.
Open
Monday to Saturday: 8:00am – 18:00pm
Website: portobelloroad.co.uk/the-market
Nearest tube: Ladbroke Grove, (8 minute walk).
Old Spitalfields Market, East London
Explore Old Spitalfields Market and uncover a delightful collection of antiques gathered from across the UK and Europe.
The market boasts a variety of stalls run by antique dealers and independent vendors, showcasing a range of affordable art, fashion, ceramics, jewellery, and much more. Don’t forget to bring your best haggling skills to snag a great deal at one of London’s largest indoor markets. Additionally, every third Thursday of the month, the lively Colour Walk makes a stop at the market, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
If feeling parched whilst wandering around the lively atmosphere of stalls, why not take a break at one of the numerous food and drink spots that surround the market.
Open
Thursday: 8:00am – 18:00pm
Website: oldspitalfieldsmarket.com
Nearest tube: Liverpool Street, (7 minute walk).
Alfies Antique Market
Alfies proudly claims the title of London’s largest indoor antiques and vintage market. Housed in a stunning four-story former art deco department store, it features an incredible selection of items ranging from vintage furniture and jewellery to fine arts and fashion. With around 100 dealers, there’s truly something for everyone to discover.
The market is definitely worth checking out for its stunning Deco architecture. You might even run into one of London’s renowned interior designers or a celebrity hunting for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Alfies has recently launched a range of workshops and services that are now available amongst the antique and vintage dealers. The rooftop kitchen café offers light refreshments, breakfast, and homemade dishes, all while taking in panoramic views of the city from the terrace. Or if you fancy some great fish and chips, The Seashell of Lisson Grove is located within a five minute walk.
Open
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00am – 18:00pm
Website: alfiesantiques.com
Nearest tubes: Marylebone & Edgware Road, (5 minute walk).
Greenwich Antique Market
If you’re on the hunt for art, crafts, and antiques, Greenwich Market is the place to go! The antique market is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. You’ll discover stalls filled with a delightful variety of antique items and collectables including old books, maps, coins, retro items, and vintage jewellery.
Located in the historic Greenwich district and part of the Maritime Greenwich World Heritage Site, this market is conveniently located near attractions like the Cutty Sark and the Royal Observatory, as well as being close to Greenwich Park, making it a perfect stop for visitors exploring the area.
Surrounded by a diverse selection of food and drink options, as well as many unique shops and boutiques, Greenwich Market a great area to shop and unwind. This vibrant market not only showcases the rich history of the area but also offers a unique shopping experience.
Open
Monday to Sunday: 10:00am – 17:30pm
Website: greenwichmarket.london
Nearest tube station: Cutty Sark (DLR), (2 minute walk).
Brick Lane Markets
The Brick Lane Markets, often referred to as the Truman Brewery Markets, feature a vibrant mix of vendors located on Brick Lane in Spitalfields. This lively and vibrant area is filled with unique finds and amazing bargains. Boasting over 200 stalls where you can explore a wide variety of antiques, jewellery, furniture, collectibles, and retro items.
While exploring the markets, take a moment to grab a bite to eat at one of the wonderful street food stalls. You’ll find a variety of delicious local and traditional treats, from Tibetan momos to Lithuanian dumplings! It’s a feast for the eyes and stomach! Vendors are usually eager to share samples, so feel free to visit a few stalls and let your taste buds decide.
Nearest tube station: Shoreditch, (5 minute walk).
Brick Lane Vintage Market
Located in the basement of The Truman Brewery, Brick Lane Vintage Market features a collection of boutiques offering vintage treasures from across the UK. With roots tracing back to the 1920s, you’ll find an eclectic mix of styles and fashions, including accessories and costume jewellery.
The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to hunt for unique vintage finds. Sundays are especially lively as various market stalls come together to offer unique art, prints, delicious food, and much more.
Open
Monday to Friday: 11:00am – 18:30pm
Saturday: 11:00am – 18:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 18:00pm
Website: vintage-market.co.uk
The Tea Rooms – Antiques and Vintage
Located within the old Truman Brewery The Tea Rooms houses an Aladdin’s cave of fascinating gems and antiquities. You can discover rare first edition books, unique and original art & craft, vintage maps and an assortment of trinkets and collectables. Additionally, there is a café where you can enjoy excellent coffee. The Tea Rooms is open every weekend, perfect for those on the hunt for unique finds!
Open
Saturday: 11:00am – 18:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 18:00pm
Website: bricklane-tearooms.co.uk
Backyard Market – Arts and Crafts
When you explore Brick Lane Markets, make your way towards the lively music coming from the stall beyond the Tea Rooms. Here you’ll discover the Backyard Market, where independent vendors and emerging artists display a range of unique treasures. From exclusive bags and clothing to handmade jewellery, original artwork, prints, and fun, quirky accessories, there’s something special for everyone.
Open
Saturday: 11:00am – 18:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 18:00pm
Website: backyardmarket.co.uk
Camden Passage
One of the delightful secrets of London is the lovely pedestrian-only Camden Passage, nestled down a cobbled back street in Islington, not be mistaken for Camden Market located in the nearby Camden Town.
Camden Passage features three distinct markets: Pierrepoint Arcade, Charlton Place and Camden Passage Market.
The area is a lovely place to visit on any day of the week, situated in a vibrant neighbourhood with charming boutique shops, delicatessens, and a range of cozy cafes, perfect for unwinding.
While the market operates on most days, if you’re looking for antiques, be sure to stop by on Wednesdays and Saturdays when you’ll discover stalls brimming with collectibles, jewellery, artwork, and vintage treasures. Additionally, Pierrepont Arcade hosts a book market every Sunday.
Website: camdenpassageislington.co.uk
Nearest tube station: Angel, (2 minute walk).
Bermondsey Antique Market
A historic antique market dating back to the 19th century, nestled in Bermondsey Square in the heart of Bermondsey itself. Originally known as the New Caledonian Market moving to its current location in 1950. In the early days the market was allowed to legally sell stolen goods, under the status of a ‘marché ouvert’ or ‘open market’ this was ended in 1995 by a change in the law.
These days, more than 500 traders gather every Friday to showcase their treasures and high-quality items sourced from around the globe, legally! This open-air market has earned a reputation as one of the finest antique markets, attracting visitors from near and far in search of unique and rare finds. If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere filled with a variety of antique dealers and exceptional items, this is definitely a must-visit spot.
Open
Friday: 07:00am – 14:00pm
Website: bermondseyantiquemarket.co.uk
Nearest tube stations: Borough (15 minute walk),London Bridge (16 minute walk).
Flea London at Vinegar Yard
Nestled near London Bridge, Vinegar Yard hosts a charming weekend vintage and makers market that’s perfect for those on a budget. Here, you can discover one-of-a-kind treasures without breaking the bank, making it an ideal spot for anyone who loves antiques but prefers more affordable options compared to other markets in London.
The market features converted shipping containers that serve as unique shopping spaces, alongside outdoor stalls offering a delightful array of handmade items, vintage clothing, handbags, jewellery, and accessories, alongside old maps, books, furniture, and vinyl records. In between browsing, you can unwind at the outdoor food court, where an extensive range of food and drink offer choices for all tastes, all while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Open
Saturday and Sunday: 11:00am – 17:00pm
Website: flealondon.com
Nearest tube station: London Bridge (15 minute walk)
Antique Shops
Grays Antiques
Nestled in the vibrant Mayfair area, Grays Antiques occupies a charming Edwardian grade II listed building that exudes both charm and history. This unique venue features over 100 dealers who specialize in luxury items from all corners of the globe.
The collections include vintage watches, fine art, exquisite jewellery, glassware, and toys. Shoppers can also find treasures from Greek, Islamic, and Ottoman cultures, along with beautiful Chinese and Japanese porcelain.
As you stroll through the aisles, you’ll discover a captivating realm filled with artistic wonders and classic styles. With antique dealers ready to assist you, Grays guarantees an experience that caters to all tastes.
Open
Monday to Friday: 10.00am – 18.00pm
Website: graysantiques.com
Nearest tube station: Bond Street (opposite).
Crystal Palace Antiques
In this vast Victorian former textile warehouse, you’ll discover a wide variety of unique and fascinating treasures from the past. Spanning four floors, it highlights a rich collection of antiques, including mid-century furniture, lighting, and home decor, along with Art Deco and vintage pieces that are eager to find a new home.
Friendly and enthusiastic staff are on hand every day of the week to provide expert guidance and information about any item that may be of interest. Even if you don’t come across exactly what you’re seeking, a trip to Crystal Palace Antiques is still well worth it. You can appreciate the beautiful craftsmanship of the items on display. Plus, you’ll have the chance to uncover the intriguing history and tales that each piece carries.
Open
Monday to Saturday: 10:00am – 18:00pm
Sunday: 10:00am – 17:00pm
Website: crystalpalaceantiques.com
Nearest tube station: Crystal Palace overground, (5 minute walk).
Town House, Spitalfields
A brief stroll from Spitalfields leads you to the Town House, a charming vintage gallery located in an 18th-century building opposite Hawksmoor’s Christ Church. This delightful spot offers a variety of ceramics, glassware, fine art, books, and the odd antique, so take your time to explore and uncover some hidden gems. Additionally, there’s a gallery at the back through a delightful courtyard, featuring exhibitions and works by contemporary artists throughout the year.
If you fancy a break from browsing, step back in time at the charming café nestled at the bottom of the rustic wooden stairs. The basement houses the kitchen with its 18th century fittings where for the past 15 years, the friendly staff have been delighting visitors with their delicious coffee and freshly baked cakes.
Open
Tuesday to Saturday: 11:00am – 18:00pm
Sunday: 11:30am – 17:30pm
Website: townhousespitalfields.com
Nearest tube station: Liverpool Street, (8 minute walk).
Furniture & Arts Building
Located on the Kings Road on the western edge of Chelsea. The Kings Road is one of London’s most iconic and fashionable streets, known for its upscale shopping, art and design, architecture and home to stylish cafés, bistros, and restaurants.
The striking bright green exterior of the Furniture & Arts Building or FAB, at the intersection of Kings Road and Lots Road, is not hard to miss. Previously known as The Furniture Cave, this charming establishment is a fantastic example of a historic building transformed into a hub for antique shops. Spanning three floors, it features a diverse mix of showrooms and galleries, offering a wide range of antiques, fine art, sculptures, furniture, chandeliers, and various other treasures to elevate your home decor.
FAB provides a variety of food, drinks, and entertainment options. You can enjoy a Mediterranean bar, restaurants, and a basement club, as well as the Cuban-themed nightclub Embargo República known locally as Embargos.
Keep in mind that the opening hours can differ from one dealer to another. If you plan to visit a specific gallery or showroom, it’s a good idea to confirm their hours beforehand to ensure you don’t face any disappointment.
Open
Monday to Saturday: 10:00am – 18:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am – 17:00pm
Website: furnitureandartsbuilding.co.uk
Nearest tube station: Imperial Wharf, (9 minute walk).
Northcote Road Antique Market
At first glance, Northcote Antiques may seem quite modest, with just a few items displayed on the pavement near the entrance and a small window offering a sneak peek of the treasures within. However, stepping inside reveals a spacious shop that spans two floors, filled with a remarkable variety of antique gems.
With over thirty dealers showcasing an array of items, from stunning crystal chandeliers and exquisite porcelain figurines to elegant Georgian furniture, the selection is truly impressive. While the prices may be higher than those at typical antique markets, each piece carries its own unique history and craftsmanship from a different time, making it a worthwhile investment.
Located in Battersea, situated south of the Thames and well-connected by public transport, the area offers a delightful mix of cafes and boutiques, making it a charming place to explore and shop.
Open
Monday to Saturday: 10:00am – 17:30pm
Sunday: 12:00pm – 17:00pm
Website: northcoteroadantiques.co.uk
Nearest overground station: Clapham Junction, (14 minute walk).
Antiques Fairs
Adams Antiques Fair
Adams Antique Fair is proud to host the longest-running Sunday antiques fair in London. In excess of 100 exhibitors pitch up to sell an abundance of antique paraphernalia, including rugs, artwork, fine porcelain, jewellery and much more besides.
This monthly event takes place at the Royal Horticultural Halls (RHS Halls) on Elverton Street, right in the heart of the city. The remarkable Edwardian structure features its original architectural details and a breathtaking glass-vaulted ceiling, creating a wonderful atmosphere for exploring and browsing the various stalls. The local area has a variety of shops, cafes, and bars. Tate Britain, one of the major art galleries in London is just a short stroll away.
We recommend turning up early, as it has been known for queues to form around the block.
Open
Sunday: 10:00am – 16:30pm
Website: adamsantiquesfairs.com
Nearest underground station: St James’s Park, (9 minute walk).
Google Map of Antique shops and markets in and around London.