Buyer from London, founder of the IZUM vintage project
No one will argue that the English are first and foremost proud of their history and carefully preserve the manifestation of it: castles, palaces, estates, fences and doors, fireplaces and stained glass windows, weapons, lace, dishes, paintings, tapestries, and much more. It is not surprising that there are many flea markets in England. It is part of the national culture and daily life of the British. There are different trading formats: car boot sales – selling from the backs of cars, vintage fairs, stores, and galleries. It will not be that hard to find something unique in magnificent old England. But one needs to know the right places.
Crystal Palace Car Boot Sale
You can buy absolutely everything here, from IKEA bathroom shelves to rare antique books, tapestries, furniture, and dollhouses. Only cash is accepted – you need to get cash money in advance because the nearest ATM is far away. A rental van will transport large-sized purchases to the given address. Haggling is possible. Close to the end of trading, many sellers grab the last customers and give away any item for £1 or £2. Time and place: every Wednesday, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The market is organized only in summer and winter. The venue: Crystal Palace Park.
Adams Antiques Fairs
The antiques fairs offer lots of silver, paintings, antique items of women’s clothing, vintage jewelry of famous brands (Dior, Chanel, etc.). All the vendors are in their old age. Ladies and gentlemen are ready to tell you fascinating stories and legends about their treasures. There is the possibility to pay by credit card here, although not everywhere. Time and place: once a month, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in one of the old buildings in central London.
Alfies Antique Market
For more than 40 years, the Alfies Antique Market has attracted serious collectors, interior designers and celebrities to its varied collection of antiques
and collectables. To this day, people flock from around the world to Alfies to find something genuine and unique. The market area is 30,000 square feet and has four floors. You could find there a large selection of furniture, paintings, silverware, glassware, tableware, watches, and even an antique suitcase shop. Time and place: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Every day except Mondays. The venue: 13-25 Church Street, London, the United Kingdom.
Greenwich Vintage Market
There is a lot of bijouterie and furnishings here. The market is small, but you are sure to dig out something interesting there. Only cash is accepted. Nearby there is a park and an observatory, so if you wish, you can kill two birds with one stone. Time and place: from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, near a huge market for food and handicrafts, do not get confused!
Portobello Road Market
An entire street of shops and antique stores! It is a concentration of beauty from all trends, eras, and styles. Exquisite silver, the finest porcelain, precious jewelry – you can find anything here! From an old vinyl record autographed by a legendary musician to a rabbit's foot brooch! You can pay with a credit card in the stores, but only cash is accepted in a street market. There are two ATMs nearby. Time: its stores are open every day except Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; the street vintage and food market is open on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Grays Antique Centre
Museum-level antiques are those that are inherited or purchased for investment purposes. A fabulous place for treasure hunting! And for me, it is a place of power and inspiration. Jewelry: tiaras, necklaces, brooches, and diamond earrings. Silverware, collectible watches, antique lace, rare porcelain. New stuff almost every week! Experienced antique dealers will help you in the case you cannot make up your mind. Time and place: every day except Sunday, usually from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in central London, one minute walk from Oxford Street. The British people’s reverent attitude to the past is in the interest of antique lovers. If you like things with history – go this way! Enjoy your shopping!