I wanted to buy a guitar for my grandson’s 11th birthday as he really loved rock music and wanted to learn how to play it. I had quite a hard time finding this place but I was told it is one of the best guitar shops in town and I don’t spare time or expenses when it comes to making my grandson’s dream come true. I was a bit worried because I don’t really know anything about musical instruments so I had to fully rely on the knowledge of the staff. Luckily for me they were quite polite and took the time to explain the differences between models and their specifications. Without their help I would have never be able to choose one between the hundreds of models. It was definitely worth it as my grandson simply loves his new guitar. Thank you for making him so happy.
Ellie P.
Place rating: 4 London, United Kingdom
This is a friendly neighbourhood place for a newbie musician to pick out a guitar and accessories. The staff is extremely helpful and recommended guitars over a range of price points. While most of their stock is guitars, they have a number of other instruments. You feel very good supporting a great local business. It’s a small shop and the times we’ve gone it seems like there are lots of regulars who come back again and again for advice and repairs.
Meike B.
Place rating: 4 London, United Kingdom
This is a Notting Hill institution and long may it continue. Their emphasis is on guitars which are also serviced(best to check first who’s on duty as quality may vary). Portobello Music feels just like a good rock’n’roll music shop should. The owner displays just the right level of indifference and most visitors actually play quite well. Good for networking and nerdy musicians chats.
Vialda
Place rating: 4 Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
This place is quite hard to find if you don’t know it’s there because it’s sort of tucked away behind other places. It’s worth looking for though as they have a lot of really good instruments inside, both electric and acoustic guitars and bass’s as well as a variety of other things. They do setups there as well, so if you need the action adjusting on your guitar then you can just take it along and either leave it with them, or if they’re not too busy they’ll sort it out for you on the spot as they’re workshop is at the back of the store. They’ve got a good board for musicians there too with loads of people looking for bands, bands looking for people and info on band jams and open mic nights.
Jwhitt
Place rating: 4 London, United Kingdom
Portobello Music is a little gem tucked away behind the hustle and bustle of Portobello Road. It’s located next door to the famous People’s Sound Record Store, which is the last remaining remnant of All Saints Road’s West Indian past, and like it’s counterpart, you’ll find a real slice of old skool West London when you walk through the doors. Inside, you’ll find a great selection of acoustic, classical, electric and bass guitars and the owners can service your instrument on a work table at the back. For any budding musicians out there, Portobello Music is a good place to head to find somewhere to play — the message board by the door is always full of open-mic night offers.