Exploring Notting Hill: A Sunday Guide to Antiques, Roasts, and Vintage Finds

Notting Hill on a Sunday is a special kind of magic. The Portobello Road Market buzzes with a vibrant energy, the iconic houses boast their colorful facades, and a delightful sense of community fills the air. Last Sunday, I decided to embrace this charm and curate the perfect Notting Hill afternoon adventure.

My day began with a delightful wander down Portobello Road. This sprawling market is a treasure trove for antique hunters and vintage enthusiasts. I spent a happy hour browsing stalls overflowing with trinkets, furniture, and unique finds. The silver wear, crystal and tea sets are every antique collectors dream, overflowing with options in a location steaming with Victorian artifacts.

Portobello Road isn't just about antiques; it's a haven for vintage fashion lovers too. I stumbled upon a stall boasting a collection of luxurious vintage furs – perfect for adding a touch of old-world glamour to any outfit. A particularly stunning vintage Mongolian lamb wool vest caught my eye. A few doors down, there are specialty vintage and retro clothing stores, with shoes, clothing, scarves, bags and jewellery, all available to find their way into a new wardrobe. With endless options, I couldn't resist an 80's sequin statement blouse!

But it's not all about the shopping; Sundays in London are not without a roast, and the pubs in Notting Hill do not disappoint. Enter The Duke of Wellington, a charming pub steeped in Victorian character. The Sunday roast was everything I needed – a delicious roast chicken, paired with a fluffy Yorkshire pudding, roasted vegetables with all the trimmings. Tip: Sunday roasts will run out - go for lunch to ensure your choice of meat is available, not just at this pub, but all through the UK - it's a popular activity!

After a delicious lunch and catching up with friends over a few English ciders, a sudden urge struck me. I raced back to the vintage store to secure that Mongolian lamb wool vest (no regrets!).

I strolled past many a bakery, including Gail's, boasting handmade bread, pastries and cakes, as well as Cheeky Scone - a newcomer to Portobello Road offering a huge selection of delightful scones, and tackles the age-old question of "Cream on jam, or jam on cream?"

Any fan of the classic romcom movie Notting Hill will be seeking out the bookstore, park bench or the blue door, which are all worth a stroll by! These iconic locations add a touch of movie magic to your Notting Hill experience.

Notting Hill offers a quintessentially English experience year-round, but in August, the energy explodes into a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture. The streets transform into a kaleidoscope of color as floats adorned with feathers and costumes snake through the crowds. Decked out in flamboyant outfits, crowds dance to the infectious beats and the aroma of jerk chicken, fried plantains, and other Caribbean delicacies fills the air. Over two million people descend upon Notting Hill for this annual event, making it the largest street festival in Europe. Next time, I'll be back for the party!

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow on Notting Hill's colorful streets, I strolled towards the iconic Churchill Arms. This pub is a visual feast in itself. Its exterior is adorned with a riot of colorful flowers, hanging baskets, and overflowing window boxes. Inside, an eclectic mix of antiques and plants adorning the walls and ceilings. The restaurant here is actually not British fare, but rather a very bustling Thai restaurant, which smelled absolutely divine! I just settled into a cozy corner and sipped on a refreshing pint, soaking up the pub's unique charm before heading back home.

From the treasures of Portobello Road to the comforting pub fare and vibrant atmosphere, Notting Hill on a Sunday offers a delightful escape from the ordinary. So, the next time you're looking for a charming and quintessentially London experience, be sure to add Notting Hill to your itinerary. You won't be disappointed!