It may be evolving at breakneck speed with all of the technological advancements that demand a capital city to catch up, but lots of the retro charm of London has been preserved. Better still, it’s possible to explore much of it on a budget.
From vintage markets to retro entertainment and somewhere to dine in the past, here are some top spots for you to venture to for a spot of retro charm in London.
Venture into the Vintage Markets for a Bargain
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London boasts a grand heritage of sprawling markets set up by its residents.
Far from the corporatised shopping centres dotted around, these vintage selling spots are perfect for finding unique goods at bargain prices. Despite being in the famously pricey Kensington and Chelsea, you can easily grab a bite and something fun to add to your home for cheap on Portobello Road. Even if you don’t buy anything, you’re welcome to explore the antique stalls.
If you haven’t got your fix of vintage markets from Portobello Road Market, make your way to Old Spitalfields Market. In existence since King Charles I licensed the meat and roots to be sold in 1638, the area was revived in the 20th Century. However, even with this effort, the eastern end, with its Grade II buildings, retained its vintage charm.
The area has also housed many major events, one of which King Charles III visited this summer.
Retro Entertainment and Legacy Experiences
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For anyone who wants to dive into the classic days of entertainment, London has two grand venues to visit.
The first is Four Quarters. With locations in Peckham, London Bridge, Hackney, and Elephant and Castle, you’ll find a whole bunch of classic games to play in each venue. In Hackney alone, there’s Crazy Taxi, Galaga 3, Ms. Pac-Man, Sega Rally, Street Fighter 2, Tekken Tag, and Time Crisis 2, among many others.
The theme of these retro bars has clearly been a huge hit in London, as shown by the number of locations, speaking to the love of retro and vintage gaming options in the capital. This is also reflected in other corners of gaming entertainment. Slot and arcade fans across London love to play classic slots online. The likes of Seven 7s, Break da Bank, and Vegas Hot Spots all stick to the classic gameplay mechanics to appeal to retro fans out there.
For another classic form of entertainment showcased in its more retro form, you can travel over to the Cinema Museum. Set in Kennington, near Elephant and Castle, the Cinema Museum is all about keeping the days of pre-multiplex cinema alive. There’s a fascinating collection of artefacts that preserves the experience from as far back as the 1890s. Plus, now and then, they host special screenings so that you can get the classic experience.
Finish Up with a Retro Munch
After all of the vintage market exploration and time playing games or perhaps even watching a movie retro-style, you’ll likely be craving something to eat. Stay in the spirit by enjoying the 1950s and 1960s charm of Poppie’s Fish & Chips. With locations in Spitalfields and Camden, you’ll enjoy the 50s décor, jukebox playing to the side, and the very affordable chips. Alternatively, try out Hackney or Soho’s The Breakfast Club, which oozes retro vibes.
On a budget, you have plenty of options if you want to make a day of exploring the vintage, retro, and classic charm that’s still dotted around London.