London's Iconic Market

Nestled in the trendy London district of Notting Hill, Portobello Road is home to one London's (and the world's) most iconic and famous markets. Today buzzing with pubs, restaurants and a diverse range of communities, nearly 300 years ago it was a very different place.

Originally no more than a winding country path known as Green Lane, it took its name from Porto Bello Farm which was built in the area which we now know as Golborne Road. The farm was named after the town of Porto Bello in Panama, captured by the British from the Spanish in 1739, as part of the War of Jenkins Ear.

Up until the 1940s, Portobello Road market was like many other London markets and mainly sold food and other essential items, and this still continues today.

However in the 1940s, more and more 'rag and bone' men started selling their wares, soon joined by other traders specialising in brick-a-back and antiques. Gradually, antiques have become what Portobello Road Market is best known for, with Saturday being the main trading day. However, the market still retains its fresh food origins and over time, five distinct sections of the market have formed.