Petticoat Lane

If you're hankering for some new clothes on a Sunday afternoon, get stuck into the historic Petticoat Lane Market.

Between 9am-2pm, visitors can sift through intriguing leatherwear and vintage gear to designer items and hard-to-find curiosities. The market dates back to the 1750s, and it's as lively today as it was then. In fact, to a first timer, it might resemble a huge second-hand sale, but don't be misled: there are plenty of genuine bargains to be sniffed out, and haggling with a cockney trader ranks as a definitive London experience - don't be shy.

It takes place in Middlesex Street, between Liverpool Street and Aldgate East tube stations. Don't be confused by the fact that Petticoat Lane itself no longer exists: the street's name was changed by the Victorians who bristled at its reference to ladies' underwear.

If you can't wait until Sunday, a smaller week-long market is held on neighbouring Wentworth Street with over 1,000 stalls.

Image: visitlondonimages/britainonview