Best car boot sales in London
**TL;DR: London has hundreds of car boot sales throughout the year, with popular venues including Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace, and Wimbledon Park. Most run on weekends, with entry fees of £3-£8. Arrive early for the best bargains, and visit in spring or autumn for the biggest sales.**
## Introduction
Looking for a bargain in London? Car boot sales are brilliant for finding second-hand treasures, vintage items, and household goods at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re after furniture, books, clothes, or collectables, London’s car boot sales offer something for everyone. These events bring together hundreds of sellers and thousands of shoppers every weekend across the capital. You’ll find everything from rare vinyl records to kids’ toys, often at a fraction of the shop price. Let’s explore the best car boot sales in London and how to make the most of your visit.
## Where are London’s best car boot sales held?
The most popular venues include Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace, and Wimbledon Park. Battersea Park hosts regular Sunday sales near the Thames. Alexandra Palace offers massive events with over 700 pitches. Wimbledon Park is easily accessible and runs year-round. Walthamstow Stadium and Chingford also host excellent sales with large seller bases.
Beyond these hotspots, you’ll find regular sales at Clapham Common, Dulwich Park, and Hackney Marshes. East London markets like Hackney have become increasingly popular. South London venues offer great variety and consistent crowds.
## When should you visit for the best deals?
The biggest sales happen in spring and autumn. Spring sales (March to May) feature garden items and spring clothing. Autumn events (September to November) offer back-to-school bargains and winter goods. Summer sales run less frequently but still offer good deals.
Most car boot sales happen on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Arrive early, around 8am or earlier, for the best selection. Serious bargain hunters arrive at opening time. Prices drop significantly in the last hour as sellers want to pack up. Visit later if you prefer smaller crowds but fewer choices.
## What should you expect to pay for entry?
Most car boot sales charge £3-£8 per person. Children often get in free or for £1-£2. Parking is usually free on-site. Some premium venues charge up to £10. It’s worth checking specific venue websites for current prices. Early bird entry sometimes costs extra but gives you first pick. A family of four should budget £15-£25 for entry and parking combined.
## How can you find your nearest car boot sale?
Several websites list London car boot sales with dates and locations. Boot Sale Guide UK covers most events in the capital. Local event websites like Meetup also advertise upcoming sales. Community notice boards and local Facebook groups share information. Many parks post schedules on their websites directly. Instagram has dedicated accounts tracking London’s best sales. Check the weather forecast before heading out. Late cancellations do happen, so confirm online before you go.
## What tips will help you get the best bargains?
Bring cash, as not all sellers take card payments. Start with a shopping list of what you actually need. Negotiate prices politely, especially late in the day. Check items carefully for damage before buying. Learn roughly what items cost new so you spot real bargains. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll walk for hours. Bring bags or a trolley for carrying purchases. Shop early for vintage and designer items. Expect to haggle, especially on multiple purchases or bundles.
## Conclusion
London’s car boot sales offer fantastic value for money and fun weekend adventures. From Battersea Park’s riverside setting to Alexandra Palace’s massive selection, there’s something for every bargain hunter. Plan your visit for early morning on weekends in spring or autumn for the best experience. Whether you’re hunting collectables or household essentials, these sales deliver amazing finds at rock-bottom prices. Start your next treasure hunt today. Find a car boot sale near you by searching our free UK directory.
## FAQ
**What items are most commonly sold at car boot sales?**
Furniture, books, vinyl records, clothes, toys, kitchen items, and collectables are staples. Electronics, garden tools, and sports equipment also feature regularly.
**Can you haggle at London car boot sales?**
Yes, haggling is expected and welcomed, especially late in the day. Sellers often reduce prices to avoid carrying items home.
**Are car boot sales every weekend in London?**
Not always. Most run year-round but frequency varies by venue. Check individual websites for specific dates and schedules.
**What’s the best time to arrive?**
8am or earlier gives you the best selection. Later arrivals mean fewer items and possibly better bargains as sellers clear stock.
**Do all car boot sales accept card payments?**
No, many sellers only take cash. Bring plenty of notes and coins to avoid missing out on bargains.