I spent Saturday afternoon in Islinton, London, window shopping and checking out the outdoor markets in Camden Passage. It’s a wonderful place for people watching, finding hidden treasures or just whiling away a few hours admiring odd and ends.
Camden Passage (tube: Islington Angel / bus 73 or 38) may be small and well hidden, but it is worth a visit. Think of it as a miniature, less touristy version of the much better-known Portobello road: far less crowded but with excellent vintage and antique shops, market stalls selling anything from jewellery to kitchen utensils, trendy furniture and home decoration shops, cafeterias and eateries.
And why do I like Camden Passage? Well, there are many reasons, of course (e.g. one of Professor M’s favourite restaurants), but there are two things that make this area special: vintage and antiques.
Vintage Shops
Camden Passage has several excellent vintage shops, all conveniently within walking distance. Now, I’m not a big fan of vintage clothing: I find vintage usually a bit too delicate or high maintenance for my liking. And I don’t like wearing anything ‘old’ or ‘used’, either. But I do find an odd item to take home every now and then, usually costume jewellery or scarves. And the last time I visited Annie’s I found a fabulous 1920’s kimono that I just had to have, never mind I still have no idea what to do with it…
So, if you’re looking for flapper dresses, vintage evening bags, 60’s fashions or anything else, one of the shops in Camden Passage probably has it.
Art Nouveau and Art Deco fine jewellery
There are several shops selling antique fine jewellery, some of them specialising in Art Nouveau and Art Deco. Oh, if only money were no object… Oh well, maybe one day I can afford one of the pewter or silver Art Nouveau jewellery boxes in the Pierrepont Arcade Market shops…
Of course, the many market stalls around the area have quite a selection of more modestly priced vintage costume jewellery, along with other typical flea market offerings.
What are your favourite shopping destinations in London?
Tiina
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PS: See my previous post on Camden Passage HERE
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Oh, I want to go there. I am so in love with the UK, I wish I could live there, in the south that is. I love that vintage window. But alsomtomlook at, I also dont buy something used.
Yes, there are lots of interesting places in the south. And London, of course.
I seriously want to be in that shop with all the bright dresses. There are at least two I can see I'd love to buy. I don't mind one bit buying something used. It saves the environment and my pocketbook. bisousSuzanne
Ha, ha, as soon as I saw the shop window, I immediately thought of you (and Melanie)!
Oh, you would love Camden Passage!
You've made me want to cross the pond!
Well, it's always good to see the world, right?
This would be the PERFECT day for me! I finding unique treasures for my home, good dining and clothes! Ahhh, I bet you had a marvelous time!Carriecurlycraftymom.com
There are lots of interesting areas in London, well worth a day trip.
Many a happy hour spending wandering around Camden Passage. My, not been for years so I'm due a visit. Thanks for the reminder!http://petitesilvervixen.blogspot.co.uk/
I don't go there so often anymore (it was more often when we lived nearby), maybe a couple of times a year, but it's always worth it.
I really must visit, I'm a vintage cup and saucer collector and love vintage fashion.
Oh well, then this place is a must! The markets are open on Saturday, so that's really the best time to go.