The Portobello Market in the quaint neighbourhood of Notting Hill is a well-worn tourist track that actually lives up to its hype. It can take a whole day to meander the entire stretch from Notting Hill Gate up to Golborne Road, perusing vintage clothes and antiques, produce markets and street-food stalls as you go. There’s nothing sweeter to nibble on as you weave through the stalls and streets than a cupcake from one of the most famous bakeries in London, Hummingbird (133 Portobello Road, +44 207 851 1795). People are known to line up for the red-velvet and salted-caramel versions and, although Hummingbird now has bakeries in several locations throughout the city, this was the original one. In this area, another must-stop for food-lovers is bookshop Books for Cooks (4 Blenheim Crescent, +44 207 221 1992). Located just off Portobello Road, the staff here have an encyclopedic knowledge of cookbooks and with a little café out the back and cookery classes upstairs, the only danger is you won’t make it back outside to the market.  

Location

Hop off the tube at the Notting Hill Gate then head down Kensington Park Road, which leads to Portobello Road. Stop to admire the pretty coloured doors and flower boxes as you stroll. In addition to the Portobello Market, this area is bursting with chic boutiques and cool eateries.

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