Portobello Road

Portobello Road, Portobello Road.
Place where the riches of ages are stowed.
Anything and everything a chap can unload
Is sold off the barrow on Portobello Road.
--Bedknobs and Broomsticks

An iconic London landmark and must-see is the weekend market on Portobello Road, situated in the middle of an area with another familiar name, Notting Hill. As a child, I watched the Disney movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks over and over, where I first heard of Portobello Road. Of course, I had no idea then that it was a real place that I could actually go see, or that people really did sell all manner of curiosities there.

Imagine my delight when I learned it was real and that I could visit! Suzanne and I went there last Saturday morning--my second trip to the famous street. The variety and volume of kitsch, crockery, silverware, antiques, old records, costume jewelry, and all manner of oddities lovely and tacky is quite a sight to behold.

Below is a smattering of what we saw as we perused Portobello Road's wares.

Tea, anyone?

The area is known for its colorful facades.

Window display at one of the clothing shops. I've never seen so many old sewing machines gathered together!

Fanciful teapot hanging above a shop

Vintage metal posters, as well as Britain-themed magnets and similar memorabilia

Indeed, anything and everything can be found on Portobello Road!