Area Spotlight – Portobello, W11
Portobello, W11
What is left to say that hasn’t been said about this truly special area which is the lifeblood of Notting Hill? Synonymous with style, fashion and music, and home to the legendary antique market, Portobello is always buzzing. While some things may change there are certain things that only evolve like the Electric Cinema which was built in 1910 and is a nucleus for Notting Hillbillies. The fruit and veg stalls on the market which we hope will never leave and Garcias which has been selling the very best of Spanish produce since 1957. Then there are the specialists and frankly some of our absolute favourites like Books For Cooks, Ceramica Blue and Rough Trade who all arrived in the 80s and so many more wonderful spots besides which draw us back time and time again. A few stoic antique lovers keep trading like Chloe Alberry with her famous door knobs, Michael Barham selling his wonderful antique boxes and Judy Fox for nearly 50 years now selling her antique furniture and objets d’art. The Portobello Road is a long and winding road. In this issue we’ve just covered the W11 section – the northern W10 section is coming soon!
Here are just a few of those and some more of our personal favourite go-to spots:
Food
Specialist Shops
L&R Bookshop
Since 2009, Notting Hill’s L&R Bookshop has brought pleasure to book-lovers all over the world. They stock fiction and non-fiction, with an emphasis on excellence in writing across a range of genres.
Books for Cooks
Books for Cooks is a unique bookshop specialising in cookbooks. Alongside its extensive selection of culinary titles, the shop features a small test kitchen where recipes from the books are prepared daily.
Ceramica Blue
Ceramica Blue is a wonderful boutique shop specialising in handmade ceramics and pottery. Offering a range of unique, hand-painted tiles, bowls and plates, it’s known for its vibrant designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The shop is a favourite for those seeking one-of-a-kind homeware with a personal, artistic touch.
Rough Trade
Rough Trade, just off Portobello Road, is an iconic independent record store known for its extensive collection of vinyl, CDs and music memorabilia. Specialising in a wide range of genres, it’s a key destination for music lovers. The store also hosts live events.
Entertainment
Electric Cinema
The Electric Cinema on Portobello Road is one of London’s oldest cinemas, offering a unique film experience with leather armchairs, footstools, and cashmere blankets. Located in Notting Hill, it screens a mix of mainstream and independent films, combining its historic charm with modern luxury.
Antiques & Collectibles
Portobello Market
Portobello Antiques is a renowned destination along Portobello Road, offering an eclectic mix of antiques from various periods. Known for its selection of vintage jewellery, silverware, and decorative items, it attracts collectors and enthusiasts alike. With a long-standing presence, it remains a key part of the area’s antique market scene.
Alice’s Antiques
Alice’s Antiques is a vibrant, red-fronted shop that’s been a local treasure since the 1980s. Specialising in a wide range of antiques and vintage items, from furniture to quirky collectibles, it’s a go-to spot for those seeking one-of-a-kind pieces with character and charm.
Get in touch if you’re looking to buy, sell or rent in Notting Hill, you’ll find Mountgrange Heritage a breath of fresh air.