Our markets

Photos from the 'RBKC Markets' group on Flickr

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is one of the best places to shop in the capital, and has much to offer beyond the typical high street. Whether you're going shopping or just looking for a day out, the busy markets are a great way to experience the borough's vibrant local life.

The Council manages two adjacent markets: Portobello Road market is one of the most famous markets in the world, and is renowned for its antiques and vintage fashion. Golborne Road market features food stalls during the week and has busy second hand and bric-a-brac sections at the weekend. Privately operated markets in the borough include Saturday farmers' markets at Notting Hill Gate (9am to 1pm) and South Kensington (9am to 2pm), the renowned Portobello Green Fashion market that crosses Portobello Road by the Westway (operating from Thursday through to Sunday), the new Acklam Village Market (Portobello Fine Foods) under the Westway on Saturdays and Sundays, and Partridges Food Market in Duke of York Square (King's Road) on Saturdays.

Whether you live locally or are just visiting, please support the area's local independent merchants! Shopping at your favourite market stalls and neighbourhood retailers is one way you can help to secure a thriving, vibrant and sustainable future for the heart of our unique and diverse community. To celebrate last year's first-ever national Love Your Local Market fortnight, we've produced a handy Guide to Markets in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. You can download the Guide to markets [PDF] (file size 1.5Mb) or pick up a copy at your local market. In 2013, Love Your Local Market will take place from 15 through to 29 May. Email marketevents@rbkc.gov.uk or see our Street Trading home page for details (link below).

Portobello and Golborne Road market general opening times

These times vary depending on weather conditions and the season. The street markets are normally closed on Sundays, UK Bank Holidays, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

How to get there

Portobello and Golborne Road markets throughout the week

NEW: Market traders have recently launched Shop Portobello, a website to help visitors and customers find their way round the markets, see what's on offer (and when), put together shopping lists, and find unique items and bargains!

Monday through to Thursday Portobello and Golborne Road markets serve mostly local residents with fresh fruit and veg, day-to-day items and - in Golborne Road - an international selection of hot foods. Although the street markets normally close at 1pm on Thursday, there is a small book, art and plant market under the Portobello Green canopy that stays open until 5.30pm.

Friday is the busiest weekday, with a greater number and variety of stalls. A gap in street trading may exist beyond Oxford Gardens, but Golborne Road is a destination well worth the extra five minute walk. On your way, take time to inspect the latest Portobello Wall Arts Project installation along the long brick wall.

Saturday is the busiest day by far, when the stalls, shops and arcades of the antiques section are buzzing from early morning. The rest of the markets are generally full, especially in fine weather. An eclectic mix of vintage and second-hand fashion and new goods can be found north of the Westway. This is also where the newest traders enter the markets, so don't spend all your money before you get there!

Sunday the street markets are normally closed, but there is a bustling market featuring original and vintage fashion, accessories and jewellery under the Portobello Green canopy by Thorpe Close and international street food at Acklam Village Market under the Westway by Acklam Road.

How to register as a street trader and get a street trading licence

For information on how to register as a street trader and get a street trading licence go to Street Trading home page.