Ever wondered where the heartbeat of London’s antique charm lies? Well, it’s your lucky day! We’ll unveil the secret world of hidden gems and time-travelling trinkets scattered across the city.
So, forget the mundane and the mass-produced: we’re in pursuit of those singular gems that echo with sentimentality. The capital is a canvas and we’re about to paint it with the hues of the best antique shops and markets you’ll ever find!
Alfies Antique Market
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Location: 13 – 25 Church St, London NW8 8DT, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7723 6066
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Situated majestically on Church Street in Lisson Grove, Alfies is the ultimate haven for antique enthusiasts, boasting a lineup of over 75 dealers peddling everything from silver and furniture to vintage clothes.
Let’s face it, we’re all budget-conscious detectives on the trail of a good deal. Alfies keeps it real with fairly reasonable price tags, ensuring that the joy of unearthing a hidden gem doesn’t come with a side of financial heartache.
And just when you think it can’t get any better, there’s a rooftop cafe on the top of Alfies Antique Market, namely Rooftop Kitchen. It serves tea and cakes that could turn even the most discerning taste buds into believers.
Farringdons Jewellery
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Location: 32B Greville St, Hatton Garden, London EC1N 8TB, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7242 2040
Opening hours:
- Saturday – 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Farringdons Jewellery is a veritable time capsule of elegance, boasting an unparalleled collection of Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco epochs.
What sets this store apart is the familial touch that permeates the entire experience. It’s a legacy passed down through generations, wrapped in a delightful zero-pressure sales style.
On top of this, they go the extra mile. Choose a ring, any ring, and they’ll resize and polish it to perfection, ensuring that it doesn’t just fit your finger but feels like it was crafted just for you.
Old Spitalfields Market
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Location: 16 Horner Square, London E1 6EW, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7242 2040
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Sunday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
This market is the unsung hero of London’s antiques scene, showcasing a medley of delights from vintage clothes to shabby-chic art, ceramics, jewellery, and even military clothing with tales as old as time.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a bargain gem or ready to splurge on high-end vintage marvels, rest assured that your desires will find their match here, no matter the size of your budget.
And guess what? You might just find yourself rubbing elbows with the likes of Tracy Emin, who’s known to be a regular at this Grade II-listed haven.
Grays Antique Centre
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Location: 58 Davies St, London W1K 5LP, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7629 7034
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Grays Antique Centre is a palace so extraordinary that it’s practically synonymous with London’s antique elegance. Renowned for housing one of the globe’s most extensive and diverse collections of antiques, a mere glimpse inside will have you nodding in agreement.
What sets Gray Antique Market apart is not the sheer variety, but the expertise that dwells within. Picture this: over 100 specialist antique dealers, spread across two floors, each offering a selection of antiques that could make any collector weak at the knees.
And let’s not kid ourselves, this isn’t the bargain bin of antiquing. These dealers are connoisseurs who not only understand the value but also revel in the stories each piece carries.
Town House
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Location: 5 Fournier St, London E1 6QE, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7247 4745
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Specialising in 20th-century British art from 1900 to 1960, Town House is more than a repository of relics – it’s a dynamic space that hosts regular shows by contemporary artists and an ever-evolving canvas that keeps the artistic pulse of London beating.
And oh, the treasures that await within! From oil canvases that echo the strokes of artistic mastery to glassware that glistens with tales of opulence.
Did I mention the quaint coffee shop downstairs? It’s a refuge from the hustle of Spitalfields, a cosy corner where you can sip hot coffee and savour delectable cakes – a true treat for the senses.
The Junk Shop
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Location: 9 Greenwich S St, London SE10 8NW, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8305 1666
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Junk Shop is a wonderland that defies spatial logic. What appears compact from the outside unfolds into a vast treasure trove once you set foot inside, leaving you to marvel at the sheer abundance of finds awaiting your gaze.
Once you rummage through this eccentric emporium, you’ll encounter a mishmash of delights – a rusty fireplace, Edwardian children’s beds, skeleton pub signs, ensemble of teapots. It might seem like a collection of castoffs, but it’s the very essence of The Junk Shop.
If the eclectic offerings weren’t enough, there’s a delightful tea room tucked away at the, beckoning with homemade cakes, cream teas, and aromatic brews from 10:30 AM onwards.
Two Columbia Road
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Location: 2 Columbia Rd, London E2 7NN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7729 9933
Opening hours:
- Wednesday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
If you’re on the hunt for collectable furniture with global flair, this is your haven. The curated selection spans continents from the rustic charm of the US to the timeless elegance of Eastern Europe and the sleek minimalism of Scandinavia.
Once you’re here, you’ll encounter an array of Danish tools that embody mid-century chic to teak bookcases that whisper tales of craftsmanship.
But it doesn’t stop at furniture, they also offer lighting fixtures and eclectic pieces that add a touch of whimsy to your antiquing adventure.
Bermondsey Antique Market
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Location: 11 Bermondsey Sq, London SE1 3UN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 333 358 3688
Opening hours:
- Friday – 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Dubbed as the New Caledonian Market in certain circles, this extraordinary antique shop is a bustling hub where local traders converge to showcase a kaleidoscope of treasures and collectables.
Fridays here are a journey into the past as you navigate through 15 to 20 stalls, each a miniature universe of treasures waiting to be discovered.
And if that’s not enough, a dedicated gallery awaits, showcasing everything from the regal charm of Victorian silverware to the allure of contemporary gifts.
Camden Passage
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Location: 1 Camden Passage, London N1 8EA, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7463 557899
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday & Thursday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday & Wednesday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
This picturesque locale isn’t just a one-size-fits-all antiquing experience. Beyond the market’s biweekly extravaganza, you’ll find independent antique shops like Caroline Carrier sprinkled around.
Here’s a little nugget of trivia to elevate your visit: Camden Passage has played a supporting role in the cinematic world, providing the backdrop for scenes in Wonder Woman and Killing Eve.
So, whether you’re on a quest for vintage treasures or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this market welcomes you to a world where the past meets the present.
Golborne Road
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Location: 51-63 Golborne Road, London W10 5NR, United Kingdom
Opening hours:
- Monday – 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM
- Tuesday & Sunday – 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Golborne Road is often hailed as the genuine soul of Notting Hill that exudes authenticity that’s hard to come by. Friday’s through the weekend transform this market into a spectacle, with passionate sellers laying out their treasures.
Here’s the secret sauce: don’t be shy about exploring the length of the street. You can ask about prices, engage in a bit of banter, and if needed, take a leisurely stroll before making your final decision.
Golborne Road practically begs for a bit of haggling, but beware – the allure of these incredible antiques means they can vanish into new hands in the blink of an eye. Remember, don’t let hesitation be your downfall, act swiftly, for treasures await no one!
Atomic Antiques
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Location: 125 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JE, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 7739 5923
Opening hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Atomic Antiques specialises in a curated selection of furniture, lighting, rugs and ornaments. This place is a time-travelling journey through the decades, with treasures dating from the roaring ‘20s to the eclectic ‘80s.
Esteemed designers like Arne Jacobsen, Hans Wagner, and Mario Bellini contribute to the treasure trove, infusing the space with a pedigree that’s hard to match. Plus, the owners take immense pride in ensuring that every item in their curated collection is within reach.
In short, this is the place to go for those seeking a slice of history without breaking the bank.
Greenwich Market
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Location: 5B Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 20 8269 5096
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Nestled within the UNESCO-listed charm of Royal Greenwich, you’ll discover enchanting Greenwich Market – a delightful fusion of arts, crafts and antiques accompanied by an array of street food stalls boasting flavours from every corner of the globe.
Surrounded by an ambience of independent shops, bars, pubs and charming cafes, this market beckons you to lose track of time. Whether you’re in for vintage headwear or simply an afternoon leisurely exploration, this is the place to be.
Furniture & Arts Building
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Location: 533 King’s Rd, London SW10 0TZ, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7780 773204
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Nestled in the heart of Chelsea and just a stone’s throw from the iconic King’s Road, the Furniture & Arts Building is a beacon of antiquing excellence. Resplendent in its bright green allure, this market is an unmissable spot if you have an affinity for the extraordinary.
Spread across three floors and whimsically dubbed “FAB”, this establishment transcends the ordinary notions of an antique market. From rare trinkets to the quirkiest sofa covering, FAB is your playground for an eclectic and exceptional experience.
Grosvenor Prints
Location:
19 Shelton Street
Covent Garden
LONDON
WC2H 9JN
Contact:
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 1979
Email: [email protected]
Opening hours:
- Mon – Fri 10-6pm
Grosvenor Prints stands as one of the last remaining shops dedicated exclusively to serving collectors of antique prints.
Located in a market where the supply of antique prints is dwindling, Grosvenor Prints offers a rare and valuable service.
We like that the shop provides a broad array of prints across various genres, including Early English and Continental Portraits, Lithographed Travel and Exploration Views, Fine Art, Decorative prints, and Sporting and Pastimes.
The shop boasts thousands of prints spanning multiple genres and techniques.
We find that this wide variety allows collectors to find specific items of interest and compare works by different artists and printmakers.
Grosvenor Prints has established itself as a repository of deep knowledge about antique prints. This expertise is invaluable for collectors seeking information about specific works.
Charing Cross Collectors Market
Location: 1 Villiers St, London WC2N 6NN, United Kingdom
Contact: +44 7540 144433
Opening hours: Saturday – 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Charing Cross Collectors Market is a hidden gem nestled in the historic arches below Charing Cross Station. Operating every Saturday from 7am to 3pm, this market has a rich history dating back to the 1690s. Originally a vegetable market, it has evolved into a premier destination for collectors and antique enthusiasts, offering a wide array of coins, stamps, postcards, militaria, and other memorabilia.
With its unique location and historic significance, the market continues to attract both local and international visitors who are eager to explore its treasures. The market hosts approximately 25 to 35 traders each week, offering a diverse selection of items. This variety ensures that visitors can find unique and rare pieces, making each visit a new and exciting experience. Additionally, the market’s long-standing tradition and reputation as a premier collectors’ market add to its allure, drawing seasoned collectors and casual visitors alike.
Furthermore, admission is free, and the market is open every Saturday, except for major holidays, allowing regular and convenient access for visitors. The stallholders are known for their friendliness and expertise, creating a welcoming environment for both new and returning customers. The market also offers complimentary tea and coffee for stallholders, fostering a sense of community among the traders.
However, the market’s location, while charming, poses accessibility challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility issues. The main entrances are accessible via stairs, and while special arrangements can be made for wheelchair access, this requires prior notice and coordination.
In conclusion, Charing Cross Collectors Market offers a unique and historically rich shopping experience for collectors and antique enthusiasts. Its diverse range of collectibles, welcoming community, and convenient weekly schedule make it a valuable destination for those seeking rare and unique items. For anyone interested in antiques and collectibles, Charing Cross Collectors Market is a must-visit destination that promises to surprise and delight.
