Socks… socks… socks.
Socks were my second motivating reason for travelling into London this weekend. I have a slight obsession with socks and way back in 2003 I picked up the best pair of socks I’ve ever owned in York; ever since I’ve searched high and low for an equivalent without much luck. For years I regretted not filling my suitcase with socks from the eclectic UK street merchants.
The sock problem is now a thing of the past. If anything I now have a luggage problem.
Portobello Road was my first motivational reason for travelling into London (which relates to socks). Ever since seeing Bedknobs & Broomsticks as a child I’ve wanted to walk the markets of Portobello. I can still hear the music every time I think of the market: “Portobello Road, Portobello Road. Street where the riches of ages are stowed.”
Getting there was a long and interesting journey; all tube lines but Piccadilly were down somewhere for maintenance. I managed to figure out an “avoid the tourist packed” route that took me fairly close to Notting Hill.
It was well worth the journey and like a kid in a candy store I meandered all day amongst the street merchants, fob watches, old compasses, photographs, furniture, antiques, food, vintage clothing, and socks. Scarves are another of my obsessions and there were plenty of those much to my glee.
The street is laid out into different sections. High up on Notting Hill you find the larger antiquities shops and more authentic antiques. As you work your way down the hill you move into the food vendors and eventually crafts and trinket’s.
I go to Portobello Road everytime i am in London because I too cannot hear the street name would singing the song from Bednobs and Broomsticks. If only i could find a flying bed in one of the antique shops and head off. 🙂