London Street Markets

Camden is world famous for its markets which attract more than 100,000 visitors every weekend making it one of London's top attractions. Camden is the place to shop for funky clothes and original gifts from independent designers. Camden High Street is lined with shops including plenty of shoe stores.

Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is one of the most famous street markets in the world. The Saturday antiques market is the most popular but there is a street market six days a week. Portobello Road itself is a long, narrow street which stretches over two miles.

Greenwich Market is on from Thursday to Sunday and is one of London's best sources for arts and crafts, unique gifts, and rare antiques and collectables. Avoid the weekend if you want to visit with children in buggies as Thursdays and Fridays are quieter and you'll more likely to be able to fit in the local cafes and restaurants. The Coach and Horses is a locals favorite; its seating area actually forms part of the market.

Brick Lane Market on Sunday mornings dates back to the Jewish community migration and sells everything from furniture to fruit and has become a cool place to hang out for the day. This part of London's east end has become trendy over the last few years and has a vibrant nightlife too.

Old Spitalfields Market dates back to 1638 when King Charles gave a license for "flesh, fowl, and roots" to be sold in what was then known as Spittle Fields. This is now a seriously cool place to shop. The market is surrounded by independent shops selling hand-made craft, fashion, and gifts. The market is busiest on Sundays, but is there Monday to Friday too. Shops open 7 days a week.

Petticoat Lane was established over 400 years ago by the French Huguenots who sold petticoats and lace here. The prudish Victorians changed the name of the Lane and market to avoid referring to woman's underclothes! Although the street was renamed Middlesex Street in the early 1800s it is still known as Petticoat Lane Market.

Every Sunday, 8am-2pm, along this narrow cobbled street, you can find over 50 market stalls and 30 shops selling flowers, and gardening supplies. It's a truly colorful experience.