Good for: antiques
Alfie’s is packed to the rafters with handsome twentieth-century home decor, hosting more than 100 dealers in vintage furniture and fashion, art, accessories, books, maps and more. Dodo Posters do 1920s and ’30s ads. Be warned, the wares down at Alfie's are all fabulous but not cheap, though some gentle bartering; some of the hundred antique dealers will be keen to strike a deal.
Friday is the best day to visit Portobello market – it's far quieter than Saturday, and is the perfect opportunity to snap up the best vintage and indie fashion buys and thrift purchases before the crowds descend at the weekend. There are also food and clothing markets across the capital – a great way to kick off the weekend's shopping early.