Notting Hill

I know that I have written about this place before but in the past three months my favorite place to visit each Saturday still remains to be Notting Hill. Yes, it's the movie that Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts starred in but it is also one of the most well known and eccentric districts in London.

The travel book, Lonely Planet, describes Notting Hill as "becoming anaesthetised by its own popularity" but it still remains a favorite for tourists and locals alike. Beginning north of Holland Park, Notting Hill is home to one of the most recognizable street markets: Portobello Road. "From Notting Hill Gate, you being by passing antiques, home-wares and bric-a-brac stores and stalls, moving on through food to clothing- both young designers and second hand." 

Us, trying to walk through the market

Like clockwork every Saturday, salesmen and women wake up in the early hours of the morning and head towards Portobello. In a matter of minutes street stalls are assembled and merchandise is displayed. Now, of course, being the college student that I am, there is no possible way I actually make it out in time to see this process be done. I normally meander my way towards Notting Hill Gate around noon, just in time for lunch. If you aren't precisely sure how to make it to Portobello Road after exiting the tube station, no worries. Literally, hundreds of people are on their way to the market. Just follow the crowds. (And there WILL be crowds) If you can't handle hundreds of people in the street this market is probably not for you!

Pushing my way past the crowd, my first stop is normally the cafe. I wish I could give you the name, but it is one of those "hidden" places. I randomly found it while walking through an antique store. There was a tiny sign that pointed upstairs that said cafe and so I followed it. Probably not the brightest idea but I did. In this tiny upstairs room lies a little mom and pop "diner" where they serve the best and most inexpensive food ever! After gaining some strength, I head back to the overwhelming street. Week after week and I am greeted by the same store vendors that have been here every weekend.

The long stretch of market seems to go on forever and quite often smells of the fresh crepes being made, bread, and, infront of Hummingbird Bakery, it smells of cupcakes! If you're lucky, the man who makes the best seafood in town will be out cooking up different paellas and will gladly give you a taste!

With all the different characters you meet while walking up and down the busy Portobello Street you are sure never to be bored. Something or some food is bound to catch your attention and you are promised an interesting adventure.