Notting Hill Antiques

pHOTOGRAPHY BY ROZ ALCAZAR

It’s been a while since I’ve written here, but while looking through some old photos, I realised these never made the cut at the time, and what better reason to dust off this dusty blog?

Hello, my careless readers. This gal is back.

And like any good antique that finds its way back into fashion, I’m taking us to Notting Hill’s Weekend Antiques and Vintage Market, a London classic that never really goes out of style.

I must admit that as an East London girl, it is not often that I go to Notting Hill, but every time I do, I’m reminded why I love it. Notting Hill on a Saturday is not for the faint-hearted, it’s aggressively charming. The kind of chaos you have to surrender to.

For many, it’s a place best avoided on weekends (the locals will tell you to come midweek), but there’s something special about the Saturday energy, that messy orchestra of locals, tourists, and treasure hunters. Saturday is when the market is fully alive: antiques, vintage stalls, and all the characters that come with them.

Sundays, by contrast, are gentler — a smaller flea and fashion market, no street stalls, a slower rhythm. Lovely, yes. But for me, the full theatre happens on Saturday.

There are a few spots that are always there — reliable landmarks in the chaos.

Alice’s, the iconic red-fronted shop you’ve probably seen in every postcard and film still, is a Notting Hill institution. You’ll find everything from retro tin signs to oddball collectibles you didn’t know you needed until you held them.

And just by Notting Hill Gate Station, there are some of my favourite vintage stores: Retro Woman & Retro Clothing. These are the kind where you lose track of time between velvet jackets and old ferragamos, and I absolutely adore it.

But the real treasure lies up near Ladbroke Grove, where the market shifts gears. Here, it’s fashion galore, a paradise for the patient. You’ll dig through a blur of fakes, forgotten labels, and real luxury gems.

Think £30 Chanel shoes that need a cobbler’s touch but promise greatness, or a vintage Dior clutch hiding beneath a pile of forgotten scarves. It’s all about the hunt. Knowing when something is gold and when it’s just gold-ish.

Like any good find, it’s about slowing down. Pausing, appreciating, and walking away with something valuable (and memorable), even if it’s just a story.

A Bite Between Bargains?

When the crowd gets too much and your hands are full of someone else’s past life, walk over to The Pelican for lunch. Trust me it’s the perfect pause: elevated but comforting, like the market’s grown-up sibling who still knows how to have fun.

Happy weekend,
TCB xx

Queens Road Weekender

Have you ever been in a situation in which a friend asks you to meet at Queen’s Park and in the back of your head you are asking yourself: what’s in Queen’s Park? Where even is Queen’s Park?!

We feel you, I feel you. As an East Londoner myself, I recognize I live in a very sweet bubble where I have most things at my disposal. In most instances, going out of this bubble may feel unnecessary, but it can also be very rewarding.

I am a wanderer at heart, and if you are too, Queen’s Park has a lot for you to unpack. So what do you say, are you ready for a day ride?

10:00AM: Kickstart your day with an energizing workout

Whether you prefer spinning, barre, hot yoga, or even boxing, places like Psycle, Fierce Grace, and Storm offer classes to sweat away your stress, hangover, or fears, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on the day.

11:00AM: Treat yourself Hour

As the morning progresses, head over to the Farmer's Market at Salusbury Primary School (available only on Sundays) to peruse an array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats. Alternatively, #treatyourself to a pampering session at Somewhere in Queen's Park, where you can indulge in a stylish new hairdo.

12:00PM: Satisfy your food cravings at Milk Beach

After working up an appetite, satisfy your brunch needs with a delightful brunch at Milk's Beach. From savory classics to innovative twists on brunch favorites, their menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and fuel your adventures ahead. You can read our full-review of this restaurant (and get a glimpse of what you’ll get!) here.

2:00PM: Brews and Banter, It’s ‘Liquid Leisure’ Time!

With brunch behind you, embark on a journey of libations and leisure. Start with a beer tasting at Wolf Pack's Brewery, where you can sample a variety of craft brews in a laid-back setting. Then, make your way to Alice House Gastropub for a cheeky pint and lively ambiance.

4:00PM: Playful pursuit with Mini-Golf and Shopping in Kilburn

For a dose of fun and nostalgia, challenge your companions to a round of miniature golf or explore the nearby Kilburn area for some second-hand shopping. Traid and Crisis offer refined charity shops where you can uncover hidden treasures while supporting a good cause.

6:00PM: Discover the local creativity at Kiln Theatre

As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Queen's Park. Catch a show at Kiln Theatre and experience thought-provoking performances that celebrate diversity and creativity.

9:00PM: Savour the night delights with a food feast

If you still have energy to spare, treat yourself to a culinary adventure at one of Queen's Park's renowned eateries. Indulge in excellent sushi at Michiko Sushino or savor a Middle Eastern feast at Carmel, where bold flavors and warm hospitality await.

In Queen's Park, every moment is an opportunity to relax, indulge, and explore. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil escapes, this vibrant neighborhood offers a wealth of experiences to enrich your day and leave you with lasting memories.

TCB xxx