While living in the UK there is an experience that you can´t miss. As you have probably noticed, second-hand markets are very fashionable in this country besides practical, as you can find anything you need at affordable prices.

Most genuine version of second hand markets are the so called “Car Boot Sales”, which take place in the car´s boot and you can search for mainly clothing, household and garden goods. Most of the stalls are run by current people who sell personal possessions.

These are the best Car Boot Sales in London, selected by areas:

North: Saint Mary

Even though it is a relative newbie on the scene, it attracts many locals hunting for bargains. Prices are low and they even offer an early bird entry. If you are looking for vintage vinyls, magazines or textiles this is your place to go. Interior designers would also be fascinated by the quirky and retro items.

North: Princess May

Best place to find big sales for vintage and valuables as well as a wide choice of costume jewellery.

South: Wimbledon

During three days a week more than 200 sellers sell very interesting: clothing, silverware and jewellery. One of the best places to come back home with your hands full!

Christmas is just around the corner and whether you love this season or loathe it, strolling around the unique and diverse markets in town is a Brit experience that you shouldn´t miss. After all, more likely you´ll need to buy some presents and you can take for granted that markets and fairs are a lot more appealing than Oxford Street.  You can find all homemade unique gifts that you can imagine in a festive surrounding with delicious food and drinks. Here is the top list of markets in chronological order:

1) Southbank Centre Christmas: Nov 5-Jan 11

Set along the river, this is a perfect market to do some shopping while drinking mulled wine and eating a bratwurst plus assisting to the multiple performances and activities. New this year, there will be a Scandinavian Lodge.

2) Hyper Japan Christmas: Nov 14-Nov16

Japanese-culture lovers will find their paradise in this market full of exotic foodies and fashion goods to suit all tastes. Moreover, there is plenty of traditional Japanese entertainment like nail art, martial arts, Taiko drumming and J-Pop music.

3) Hyde Park Winter Wonderland 2014: Nov 21-Jan 4         

You can´t skip visiting London´s most famous park, which glows during Christmas season. Apart from buying the traditional German crafts and all kinds of decorative goods you can enjoy the fun attractions including ice-skating and circus!

4) Christmas Fair at Chelsea Physic Garden: Nov29-Nov30

During two days, London´s oldest botanical garden gets crowded with stalls selling quirky gifts, plenty stuff for garden lovers and basically a little bit of everything.  You can drop the kids at some workshop and relax while shopping!

5) Hackney Flea Market: Dec 6- Dec21

A pure festive vintage market where Carol singing and Christmas music happens while shopping. Don´t miss tasting mulled wine and homemade cakes.