Tuesday 13 January 2009

Hawkers & Gawkers














London's street markets are lively places which hark back to the old days when supermarkets did not exist. In fact, many of the orginal markets are still open today, operating from the same site where they first flourished decades ago. Most markets are only open a couple of days a week while others only operate on the weekend so when they are open they're always crowded with shoppers seeking a bargain. Whether it's delicious fresh fruit and vegies you're looking for or vintage teacups and dresses, London's street markets have got it covered.

Personally, my favourite market is Camden Passage in Angel- a vibrant market lining the narrow cobble-stoned pathways near Angel Station. Stalls mingle amongst high profile shops, cafes, pubs and vintage antique stores which makes the stroll through this market an interesting one full of surprises and treats. For example, you can find a minimalist stall run by an eccentric Frenchman selling old black and white photographs of 1920s Flappers and eerie old school photographs dating back to the early 1900s, not to mention an assortment of weird stuff like one or two bird feathers or a rusty old hammer. Walk a little further along and you'll stumble upon the shop of London chocolatier Paul A.Young and Annie's Vintage Shop, a treasure trove of old-school Hollywood glamour.
Overall, Camden Passage is one the quirkier markets around but its got character- an essential aspect of every good street market.

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