FULHAM. This venerable shop is known among the antique-hunting crowd as a top place for 18th- and 19th-century paintings, sculpture, and furniture. In addition to a large selection, the shop is happy to reccommend experts to provide restoration. The store, established in 1949, has a reputation for a helpful staff; it also offers certificates of authenticity for all items. TUBE: South Kensington

CHELSEA. This large building is home to more than 120 antique dealers, making it a top destination for collectors. It offers something to suit every need, including an especially large collection of Oriental items, tons of prints and paintings, beautiful antique picture frames, furniture, jewelry and sculpture. A conveniently located, one-stop antique shop. TUBE: Sloane Square

SURREY. This warehouse is a bit off the beaten path, but if you're looking for church antiques, it's an ideal place. Decorators frequently come here for dramatic touches for their homes, and the selection includes pews, chairs, lecterns, statuary, and much more. It's the perfect source for unique pieces you won't find anywhere else. Plus, a good selection of smaller, more affordable items makes interesting gifts. Note: Credit cards aren't accepted. RAIL: Hampton Court

SOUTHWARK. Hard-core antiques aficionados applaud this weekly outdoor market for its enviable array of goods. Begun in 1855 and frequented by 500 dealers, it offers furniture, artwork, silver, and anything else collectors could acquire. It's not a bargain environment, but the selection promises good quality and some unusual pieces. It's best to get an early start so you can get a leg up, but the Underground doesn't run when Bermondsey opens, so you may have to rely on the bus. Also known as the New Caledonian Antiques Market. TUBE: London Bridge Station or Borough

ISLINGTON. This quiet street becomes a hub of antique-hunting activity on Wednesdays and Saturdays, when specialists and dealers gather in stalls and arcades. The long strip keeps visitors occupied for hours and turns up treasures no matter what you're looking for. With Georgian Village on one side, The Mall on the other, and several unique arcades in between, the area provides London's largest selection of antiques. While cheaper goods, old books, and clothes can be found near the Georgian Village, the more expensive and upscale Mall side has paintings, Edwardian furniture, Victorian objets d'art, and much more. TUBE: Angel