Narnia
21 Dec 07, 12:00
Beyond expectations
I love this place. It's so individual that I am fully expecting for Tescos to buy the site out and ruin it for everyone.
The entrance is deceptively small as it opens into a split level balconied interior containing numerous stalls. It's Narnia for those who like buying Antuqies / Junk. Each tiny concession focus on slightly different antiques: Silver, Glasswear, Furniture etc. Quite keen on the 1920 art deco stall upstairs although you'll find something interesting whatever your preference. The stalls are kind of like display cabinets for antiques held in other larger shops slightly further out of town. If you're looking for something in particular ask, they'll be able to find something for you.
Tip: Haggle. While it looks quite laid back, the location means that they're not averse to charging high prices so negotiate over everything. They generally always come down in price.
It's great if you're a collector - that they tend to focus on the smaller volume items. If you like the larger brown furniture then you may be best off looking elsewhere, or even, dare I say it, looking outside of London. If you buy it here, you'll be paying a premium as it takes up the space. However, they will deliver so its a balance.
Fiona B.
Clapham
54 reviews
a secret tardis
30 Sep 07, 18:05
Above expectations
If you love browsing, antiques, modern design, trinkets or furniture this is a great little place.
Its a 12-15min walk from Clapham Junction station, down the end of Northcote Rd. It is much larger than you would expect. With a range of items spread across two floors, and often some furniture items on the street. There is a cafe (and loo) on the top floor.
The window displays are changed regularly, and often themed.
Really nice friendly local people, helpful too. Its a nice place to browse, pick up an unusal gift or for the dedicated antiques shopper.
Deceptively small, satisfyingly full
06 Aug 07, 12:16
Beyond expectations
This is the place to go locally if you love antiques - large and small. Don't expect anything smart - its not but this is part of the appeal. You get the sense that some bits have been here for decades.
Despite the small entrance the store opens up to reveal a large split level room split into numerous conncessions (20 in all?).
Some specialise in antique maps, some in 1920 items, others in wood, some in ceramics, silver, others are just a collection of bits and bobs etc
It seems to be run like a co-operative. As far as I can tell these are also offshoot stalls for people who have large stores elsewhere.
The stallholders stake it in turns to attend and man the till on behalf of those that aren't there. Just ask at the desk if you see an item that interests you.
It's worth going to but watch your ruckasks - it is packed with stuff.
There's also a little cafe at the top, up the stairs for a coffee or tea break.
As ever, prices vary and you can negotiate discounts even though the items are priced. Time passes very quickly in this place. Book a couple of hours in.
