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35+ Best Things to Buy in London: Complete London Gift Guide

By: Author The Working Line

Posted on Published: July 8, 2023 - Last updated: April 16, 2024

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There may be affiliate links throughout the content you're about to read. When you purchase from my links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) which helps me provide even more awesome content for you :)

Welcome to my complete London gift guide, with all the best things to buy in London, from treats to makeup, souvenirs and food!

I’ve talked a lot about cheap clothings shops in London , and other beautiful bookshops and stationery shops, and I wanted to do a big round up – from a local.

I moved to London in 2019, and I have been shopping more than I care to admit.

In this guide, I’ll share some of the coolest souvenirs and gifts from London – whether you live here or not!

I have designed this London gift guide as a tool handy for both men and women (whichever your gender is), so you have plenty of ideas.

One of the things I wish I knew when traveling to London for the first time was that there are budget shops here.

You don’t have to overspend or splurge if you don’t want to – but some things are worth it, and you’ll find them all here!

Best Things to Buy in London: Tea at Whittard’s

I love finding new, cute tea shops in London, and Whittard’s was one of the first ones I ever encountered.

Two of my favorites are the shops in Covent Garden and Oxford Street , where you’ll be able to find the whole tea, chocolate and coffee collection.

The vibe definitely is British, and if you can try their chocolate covered coffee beans, you’ll have found your new favorite snack.

Best Things to Buy in London: Penhaligon’s Perfume at Regent Street

In my opinion, one of the best things to buy in London are Penhaligon’s perfumes.

This is my favorite perfume shop in London, and I have been collecting these perfumes for a few years now.

If you’re ever looking for the best shops on Regent Street, make sure to pay a visit to this quintessential British perfume brand.

I currently have Babylon, and I used to have As-Sawira and Endymion Concentré, which are all some of the best perfumes you’ll ever find in London.

Best Things to Buy in London: Walker’s Nonsuch Toffee in American Candy Shops

Outside of the United Kingdom, Walker’s Nonsuch Toffee is not such a famous brand.

However, if you’re looking to bring proper British toffees, you have to get a few bags of these.

Coffee, banana, caramel, chocolate, macadamia…

The best ones are the macadamia – try them as soon as you get the chance!

I usually find these in the American candy shops on Oxford Street and around Leicester Square , and best believe these are some of the best ever toffees in London.

Best Things to Buy in London: Something from Cath Kidston

Cath Kidston is one of the most famous British lifestyle brands and with clothes, stationery and home decor, you have plenty to choose from.

I love finding new cute stationery in London and Cath Kidston, well…

Never disappoints.

Perfect for people who are always after secret gardens in London and other rooftops, since Cath Kidston embodies the beauty of a traditional British garden.

Best Things to Buy in London: A DW Home Candle at TK Maxx

I’ve written quite a bit about the best DW Home candle scents .

And well, a visit to TK Maxx shops is mandatory if you love scented candles .

Those from the American candle brand come much cheaper than Yankee Candle in TK Maxx shops , and you literally have dozens of fragrances to choose from.

So whether you’re looking for cheap candle shops in London or just happen to love browsing the TK Maxx racks, make sure you pack a DW Home candle!

Best Things to Buy in London: Velvet Items in Charity Shops

Finding amazing charity shops in London is one of my passions, wherever I happen to live.

I used to live in Tottenham, Bethnal Green , North Finchley, Mile End, West Hampstead and Greenwich and well, there are charity shops everywhere.

Some of the best things to buy in London are vintage and secondhand books , clothes and jewelry from Oxfam, Cancer Research or the British Heart Foundation.

Whether you choose to visit the charity shops in Camden Town or North Finchley, you’re bound to find something good to bring back home.

Best Things to Buy in London: Barry M Makeup at Superdrug

Barry M doesn’t have a self standing makeup shop in London ; rather, you’ll find their amazing cosmetics at Boots and Superdrug.

If you’re ever looking for the best British drugstore makeup brands , you’ll see that Barry M ticks all the boxes.

From Barry M dupes for MAC lip liners to £3.99 nail polish that lasts an eternity, you have lots to enjoy with this brand!

Some other great British makeup brands include MUA Makeup Academy, Collection and Revolution and their super affordable products.

Best Things to Buy in London: The Famous Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick

There are plenty of Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk dupes on the market, but the real deal hasn’t gone this far by mistake.

One of the best Matte Revolution shades for all skin tones, Pillow Talk is the symbol of British elegance.

There are some other beautiful shades to shop, from berry lipsticks to some of the most sophisticated red lipsticks of all time.

And obviously, obviously – some of the best things to buy in London if you want to bring home a touch of Britishness!

Best Things to Buy in London: Macarons at Pierre Herme Selfridges

Pierre Herme is one of the best patisseries in Paris , but in London, their macarons stand is partly what makes me come back to Selfridges again and again.

The Pierre Herme macarons are some of my favorite pastries in London , and they have a subtle and fragrant taste that you won’t find anything else.

For a short trip back home if you’re traveling to London for the first time, you can bring macarons with you on the plane.

But to be honest, they’re best enjoyed when walking around town in search of free rooftops and incredible views.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Rimmel Kate Moss Lipstick from Boots

Rimmel is another one of the most famous drugstore makeup brands in the world, and the Kate Moss collaborations are beautiful.

You can still find a lot of the most popular shades (including shade 104, the perfect MAC Mehr lipstick dupe ) at Boots and Superdrug.

And I mean, after all, I’m an ex- makeup artist .

It just seems normal to get some properly pigmented drugstore makeup in London, doesn’t it, when you’re visiting?

I’m partly writing this post for locals and first time visitors, so really, anyone can enjoy those treats when in town!

Best Things to Buy in London: A Burberry Coat

Burberry’s headquarters are located in London, and one of the most beautiful luxury shops in London is also theirs on Regent Street.

I’ve only been to the Burberry shop a couple of times, but it’s a whole experience.

And of course, what could be a better thing to buy in London other than a classic Burberry trench coat?

Regent Street might not be a secret London photography spot , but you can do that two-birds-one-stone kind of thing by shopping and snapping some pics!

Best Things to Buy in London: Church’s Shoes

Church’s is one of the fanciest shoe shops in London, and targeted at men who really want that British elegance on their feet.

A pair of Church’s shoes easily retails for around £300, but they’re also some of the highest quality leather shoes you’ll have in your life.

In addition to shoes, Church’s also sells accessories and is just perfect if you’re looking for the best things to buy in London for a man.

Best Things to Buy in London: Chocolate at Hotel Chocolat

There are many, many, many British chocolate brands, from Galaxy to Cadbury.

But if you’re looking to get the best chocolates in London, try Hotel Chocolat.

They’re pricey but still affordable, and the taste is absolutely gorgeous – and there are plenty of branches in London!

Best Things to Buy in London: Street Food

Getting street food in London is one of the best nontouristy things to do – at least in my opinion.

Whether you set out on a quest to find the best cheap eats in London or just want to discover anything from Mexican food to Korean BBQ , you’ll find something here.

London is one of the food capitals in the world; anything you wish for, you’ll find here.

A few options:

Chinatown Bakery, Chinatown
Franco Manca , Soho
Pizza Pilgrims, Covent Garden
Rossopomodoro, Camden (all three offer some of the cheapest pizza in London)
Chinese Tapas House, Chinatown

Best Things to Buy in London: An Umbrella at James Smith & Sons

James Smith & Sons is one of the oldest and most instagrammable shops in London .

Established in 1830 close to the Oxfam Bookshop on Bloomsbury St, James Smith & Sons does one thing, and does it well.

Their umbrellas are some of the most famous you will find here, and well, if you’re looking for the best things to buy in London and actually use…

An umbrella will always come in handy.

Best Things to Buy in London: McVities Digestives

There are plenty of cool British biscuit brands, but McVitie’s are some of the most famous.

The plain digestives are what you usually eat at tea time, but you will also find some milk chocolate and caramel versions.

McVitie’s can be found in pretty much all the good supermarkets in London, from Tesco to Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury’s.

And if you’re looking for ways to eat in London on a budget , you’ll also find pretty good alternatives at shops like Iceland and Lidl.

Best Things to Buy in London: A WH Smith Notebook

If you ever ask me about my favorite branded notebooks , I’ll tell you without hesitation about the WH Smith A5 Chunky Spiral notebooks.

I’ve loved them and used them for years .

Along with my laptop, they’re pretty much the only other item when I’m walking and looking for new cafes to work in London .

There are often some really good deals on WH Smith stationery online and in store.

Plus, their cute collections are some of the best things to buy in London , keep, or gift.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Kurt Geiger Bag

Kurt Geiger is one of the most famous British fashion brands, and one of my favorite.

Actually, I’ve had my sights on the Kurt Geiger Kensington bag I’ve included above for quite some time.

Getting a beautiful black or multicolor Kurt Keiger handbag in London is probably the poshest thing you can do while being here.

Other than visiting Aqua Kyoto in Soho , that is.

My favorite Kurt Geiger shop is the one in Westfield Stratford, one of the best shopping centers in London , where you’ll find dozens of other gift options.

Best Things to Buy in London: Shoes from JD Sports and Office

I love buying new sneakers – I’ve always been that way and well, London offers plenty options to find affordable sneakers.

Two of my favorite sneakers shops in London are JD Sports and Office, if you don’t count Dr Martens for more edgy stuff.

And if you want to find some cheap clothes in London, there are plenty of shops on Oxford Street close to JD Sports and Office!

Best Things to Buy in London: Home Decor at TK Maxx & Homesense

Some of the best things to buy in London for souvenirs and for home, if you live here, is anything home decor from TK Maxx and Homesense.

There are quite a few cheap homeware stores in London, and these are two of my favorites.

From TK Maxx candles to Homesense furniture and decor, you’ll find plenty of discounted items there.

But if you like homeware and are someday looking for hidden gems in London , take a look at the Timothy Oulton shop – you won’t believe your eyes.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Teapot

A teapot seems like one of the most classic gifts from London you can treat yourself or a beloved to.

You’ll find them in all the good homeware and home decor shops in London, as well as shopping centers.

You can find teapots in places like John Lewis, Whittard’s, Selfridges,…

The price does vary, but my pick would be the Whittard’s Alice in Wonderland teapots!

Best Things to Buy in London: Harry Potter Merch

There are about a dozen Harry Potter shops in London , some of them right in the heart of Soho, where I just love to hang out.

It just feels right that some of the best souvenirs to buy from London would be some items of Harry Potter merch.

If you’re traveling to London just for the sake of seeing Harry Potter locations, then King’s Cross Station’s Platform 9 ¾ is a place that makes sense to visit.

There’s a bit of wait, but the shop is filled with wands, stationery, capes and more.

But honestly, even going to the Lego Store on Leicester Square makes for one of the best Harry Potter things to do in London – and you can obviously get some HP souvenirs!

Otherwise, try the shop at the Warner Bros Harry Potter studios ; there’s everything you might wish for there.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Jellycat Plush from Card Stores

The first time I moved to London in 2019, one of the things that caught my attention straight away is how many card stores there are.

Card Factory and the like tend to also sell stationery, small gifts and…

Jellycat plush toys.

They’re my favorite in the whole wide world – I used to have the Jellycat coffee cup plush at some point and loved it.

If you’re looking for cool things to buy in London for kids and adults, you have plenty of Jellycat plush toys all around London, and even in Waterstones.

Best Things to Buy in London: British Souvenirs with the Flag

British souvenirs with the flag make for one of the cringiest souvenirs in my opinion, and I feel the same way about buying such things in any country.

Does it stop me from doing it?

You have lots of souvenir shops in Central London , around Portobello Market, Covent Garden and other touristic areas.

A magnet, a pen, a keychain – they’re super cheap and still some of the best gifts from London when you’re traveling on a budget .

Best Things to Buy in London: Cheap Clothes at Outlets in London

The London Designer Outlet (pictured above) is one of my favorite shopping outlets in London, and I can’t remember how many things I bought there.

Sometimes, you visit a new city and need some new clothes, or some new shoes.

This happened to me when traveling to London for the first time in 2014.

I didn’t gauge the weather properly and ended up coming with the most padded Sketchers boots you’ve ever seen.

Which is why I needed to find a cheap shoe shop, because I hadn’t planned on this expense.

You’ll find lots of cool clothes from Nike, Adidas, Superdrug, M&S, and even Kurt Geiger there, and the address might very well come in handy!

Best Things to Buy in London: Meal Deals from Supermarkets

It might seem a bit awkward, but when you’re traveling to London on a budget, you’ll see that one of the best things to buy here are meal deals.

They saved me many times when I was far from home (North Finchley, Tottenham etc are about 45/60 mns from Central London by bus).

Just walking around the city, finding secret free rooftops and other beautiful places to visit while eating a meal deal?

One of the easiest date ideas in London in my opinion.

Best Things to Buy in London: Liberty of London Fabric

Right off Carnaby Street, you have Selfridges, one of the best department stores in London.

I’d be lying if I said the Liberty of London fabric was the only thing to buy there.

Actually, from Penhaligon’s perfumes to home decor, luxury skincare brands and beautiful makeup, there’s more than the eye believes at Liberty.

Right across the road, you also have the most beautiful Lavazza coffee shop I’ve ever seen, which doubles as one of the best Italian cafes in London .

Best Things to Buy in London: Vintage Clothes at Brick Lane

Brick Lane is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in London and, I mean, what can’t you do in Brick Lane?

It offers some of the most famous markets in Shoreditch , for starters, with food, books, and fashion mixed.

Some of the best bagels in London are located there, at Beigel Shop Brick Lane .

Then, you also have plenty of street art in Brick Lane that is definitely worth a second and a third glance.

Lots of beautiful cafes in Brick Lane , like Kahaila, where I love going to do some work on my laptop.

And of course, the vintage shops.

You’ll find anything from hats to sunglasses, old biker jackets and lots of denim – and you can find a good bargain there!

Best Things to Buy in London: A Suit on Savile Row

Savile Row is not only one of the most famous film locations in London (The Kingsman).

It’s also the part of London that sets the trends for male and female fashion around the world, with old tailor shops and newcomers on the street.

Count a minimum of four figures for a beautiful suit, and women will be able to find dresses, skirts and shirts in this Mayfair street .

High end British couture brands definitely seem like some of the best things to buy in London , so why not?

Best Things to Buy in London: Artisan Accessories at the V&A Museum

One of the best free museums in London is the Victoria & Albert Museum, and I might be biased, but I love their fashion collection.

I used to be a fashion makeup artist , and I’m still very much hung up on anything fashion, from jewelry to makeup.

The gift shops in London museums are always filled with beautiful, witty books and lots of souvenirs you can’t find in other places.

And the Victoria & Albert Museum also offers capsule collections for their special exhibitions – from jewelry to clothes and books, you’ll have it all there.

Best Things to Buy in London: Art in Mayfair Art Galleries

You’ll find plenty of art galleries when walking around that area – and that’s something you should definitely do if you like finding pretty neighborhoods in London .

On New Bond Street, more specifically, you have some of my favorite art galleries, with Eden Gallery pictured above.

Lots of beautiful, controversial, contemporary art.

If you have the budget, a small piece of art is another one of the best things to buy in London.

Otherwise, you have some of the prettiest streets in London all around, if you just want to walk area a posh area.

Best Things to Buy in London: Brunch in Instagrammable Cafes

Does it count if it’s brunch?

It always counts when it’s brunch in London .

One of the best things to spend your money on when traveling to London for the first time is trying a proper brunch.

Or a Full English breakfast .

From cute breakfast spots in Notting Hill to lively brunch in King’s Cross , you won’t know where to start.

Luckily, I’ve already written about some of the most instagrammable cafes in London for you, so all that’s left for you is to choose the vibe!

Best Things to Buy in London: Travel Items at Stanfords

Stanfords is one of the most famous bookshops in London, and a travel bookshop at that.

Located close to Long Acre (where you’ll find one of the best budget shops in London , a huge TK Maxx), Stanfords is colorful.

That’s the place where you can buy a book to plan your next travel, gifts and globes.

Lots of globes.

Best Things to Buy in London: Tea & Macarons at Fortnum & Mason

One of my favorite places for macarons in London is Fortnum & Masons.

Yes, I’m French, and yes, I love Laduree macarons, but there’s honestly better in my opinion.

Like the Pierre Herme macarons, and like the Fortnum & Masons macarons.

The beautiful department store is located on Piccadilly, close to Hatchards and some of the best study cafes in Mayfair .

Beautiful sights, and you can also have afternoon tea at Fortnum & Masons if you’d like a shot of posh Britishness.

Best Things to Buy in London: Football Items

There are lots of football stadiums in London and I couldn’t say for certain which is more famous than the next.

I used to live in Tottenham, and at the end of my road, there are the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium.

What a great feeling to see people getting ready for the match, and seeing the street food vans on my road…

Good times.

For football fans, you can buy lots of football items at the stadium shops, from Tottenham to Arsenal, Wembley and Chelsea.

Best Things to Buy in London: Lush Products

Lush products are some of the best skincare products I’ve ever tried, and some of my favorite massage bars and solid shampoos come from Lush.

The only thing I dislike there?

The Lush candles – totally not worth it.

For those looking for the best things to buy in London for people who don’t have access to a Lush store, that’s a good gift option.

Best Things to Buy in London: Stationery & More from Brand Academy

Brand Academy in the Oxo Tower, on Southbank, is one of my favorite shops in London.

The adjacent Coffee Academy coffee shop is also one of my favorite places to write in London .

You have a view on the water, some of the best hot chocolate in London and doughnuts from Crosstown Doughnuts – what’s not to like?

These are already two of the best things to buy in London, if you ask me.

However, at Brand Academy, you’ll find lots of underrated brands, from scented candles to home decor, plush toys and stationery.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Book from Daunt Books

Daunt Books is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful bookshops in London , but it’s also filled with potential gifts.

For whoever wants to find cool gifts and souvenirs from London, you’ll find lots of accessories, wrapping paper, stationery, and more at Daunt Books.

It’s located close to some of the best study cafes in Marylebone as well, so a visit to Daunt Books can only be inspiring.

Best Things to Buy in London: Molton Brown Bodycare

Molton Brown is one of the best shops on Regent Street, and the bodycare and candles they sell are incredible.

You can really smell the Britishness oozing through the hand wash and body lotion, and you have plenty of different branches in London.

Molton Brown is more of a high end British skincare brand, a little bit like what Marks & Spencer is to food shops in London.

Perfect if you’re looking to bring back local gifts from London to beloveds!

And there you have it, my complete London gift guide for women, men, kids and anyone looking for the best things to buy in London!

I have designed this guide both for locals living in London on a budget or not, and people traveling to London the first, second, third or dozen time.

Hopefully, you’ll have found here some really worthwhile souvenirs and gifts from London – enjoy the shopping!

Until next time!

The Working Line

Sam is a certified fashion makeup artist, a freelance writer, a blogger and a digital nomad. Since 2019, she roams around the world, from London to Rome and shares her knowledge about makeup, scented candles, travel, blogging and the digital nomad lifestyle.

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The 10 Best London Bookshops to Visit

Post author By thebumpercrew
Post date December 9, 2023
Categories In England , Europe , London , Travel
No Comments on The 10 Best London Bookshops to Visit

Are you looking for bookshops in London? The Bumper Crew has it covered! We’ve curated a list of the biggest, best and quirkiest bookshops in London, each with a unique selling point to entice you to visit to pick up your next read.

Bookshops aren’t just about the books, are they? If that were the case, you’d buy them at the cheapest price from Amazon. Bookshops are more than just books. They are an experience where we love to get lost in a beautiful, peaceful atmosphere surrounded by creativity and colour. Bookshops offer a world of discovery. So, read on to discover the best bookshops in London!

London Bookshops to Visit
1 | Stanfords Travel Bookshop

Stanford Travel Bookshop has to be our favourite bookshop in London. Established in 1853, it’s a treasure trove of everything travel! You can buy a lot of travel related at Stanfords beyond books. They have maps, globes, gifts, stationery and most surprisingly, a cafe selling reasonably priced coffee for central London! You can even buy the hot air balloons they have dangling in the stairwell, which would be a cute addition to any travel-obsessed person’s home.

📍 7 Mercer Walk, London, WC2H 9FA

🌍 stanfords.co.uk

🕙 Various opening hours

📞 0207 836 1321

2 | Word on the Water – The London Bookbarge

Undoubtedly, Word on the Water is one of the most unique London bookshops going, if not the most. After all, it’s on a narrowboat . And even better, it’s in one of the coolest parts of the city, located right next to Coal Drops Yard and Gasholder Park. On board, you’ll find an array of books and nicely designed decor. It’s a unique little London bookshop that’s probably the most quirky on this list.

📍 Regent’s Canal Towpath, near King’s Cross

🌍 wordonthewater.co.uk

🕙 Mon to Sun 12:00 – 19:00

📞 07976 886 982

3 | Daunt Books Marylebone

Daunt Books Marylebone has the finest interior of any of the London bookshops. This cannot be argued, can it? With its wonderful balcony, it’s a picture-perfect bookshop, ready and waiting for your next Instagram post. Daunt Books own a series of bookshops around London, plus a few further afield, but the one you are looking for is the Marylebone branch. It’s a peaceful branch with two floors plus the iconic balcony. It gets busy on weekends, as you’d expect because it’s Instagram famous, so arrive early or late to avoid the crowds.

📍 84 Marylebone High St, London, W1U 4QW

🌍 dauntbooks.co.uk

🕙 Mon to Fri 09:00 – 19:30, Sun 11:00 – 18:00

📞 0207 224 2295

4 | Hurlingham Books

Possibly the most jam-packed of all the bookshops in London! It’s unbelievable. Even the windows are jam-packed full of books! We just happened to stumble upon Hurlingam Books as we were heading home from Putney Bridge. It’s tucked out of the way but worth the effort to visit. They also have a warehouse not far away with over 1,000,000 books in. Correct, one million books!

Hurlingham Books claims to be the oldest independent bookshop in South West London. Whether it is or not doesn’t particularly matter because it’s unlikely any other bookshop in the area can match them for quirkiness or the sheer volume of books. It’s worth noting the opening times are also a little irregular. It doesn’t carry the crowds of some of the other bookshops, so head there when it’s more likely to be open. Ha!

📍 91 Fulham High St, London, SW6 3JS

🌍 hurlinghambooks.com

🕙 Mon – Fri 09:00 – 18:00, Sat & Sun 10:00 – 18:00 (all variable!)

📞 0207 736 4363

5 | Waterstones Picadilly

A branch of Waterstones has made this list for one reason only. Not because it’s a lousy bookshop. It’s not, but Waterstones are a household name that often doesn’t have anything necessarily special about it. They are lovely shops that are all over the place, but nothing special, nonetheless. That’s where Waterstones Picadilly comes in. This is their flagship store and Europe’s largest bookshop. It’s spread over eight floors and claims to have 13km (8 miles) of bookshelves, which is crazy! You’ll find all your book needs here, as well as frequent events like book signings and opportunities to meet authors.

📍 203-206 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1J 9HD

🌍 waterstones.com

🕙 Mon – Sat 09:00 – 21:00, Sun 12:00 – 18:00

📞 020 7851 2400

6 | Hatchards Picadilly

Just down the road from Waterstones sits Hatchards Picadilly. Hatchards have been selling books since John Hatchard, a publisher and anti-slavery campaigner, opened the shop in 1797, making it London’s oldest bookshop. It’s a large, beautiful five-storey bookshop next to Fortnum and Mason. They are also a bookseller to the Royal households and hold three Royal Warrants!

📍 187 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1J 9LE

🌍 hatchards.co.uk

🕙 Mon – Sat 09:30 – 20:00, Sun 12:00 – 18:00

📞 0207 439 9921

7 | Henry Pordes Books

Henry Pordes Books sits just up the road from the better-known Any Amount of Books near Charring Cross. Henry Pordes Books is a much nicer bookshop, though, selling antique, second-hand books and remaindered books. It’s a lovely, peaceful shop with a cute little window seat at the back. They also sell some cool vintage prints of cars and tourist posters and whatnot.

📍 72 Charing Cross Rd, London, WC2H 0BB

🌍 henrypordesbooks.com

🕙 Mon – Sat 10:30 – 19:30, Sun closed

📞 0207 836 9031

8 | Maison Assouline

Maison Assouline is the most unique bookshop on this list. That’s because it’s not just a bookshop. Maison Assouline, located in a former high-security bank in Piccadilly, is a luxurious lifestyle and cultural destination that combines a bookstore, a publishing house, a gallery, and a café. It is renowned for its sophisticated ambience and a curated selection of books, art, and other fancy items. Maison Assouline is part of Assouline, a well-known luxury publishing company founded by Prosper and Martine Assouline in 1994.

It’s the kind of place where white gloves are required to turn the pages of the books on show.

📍 196A Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1J 9EY

🌍 maisonassouline.com

🕙 Mon – Wed 10:30 – 19:00, Thu – Sat 10:30 – 21:00, Sun closed

📞 0203 034 1197

9 | Battersea Bookshop

What makes this London bookshop worth visiting? The fact it’s in one of London’s most iconic buildings. The Battersea Bookshop claims to be “a neighbourhood independent bookshop from Stanfords with a wide selection of books focusing on art and architecture, a special area for children’s books and an event hub”. As well as books, they also sell stationery, games and bespoke gifts with a quirky, industrial theme to match the industrial past of Battersea Power Station. Battersea Bookshop is a great bookshop that’s worth the effort to visit. Not just for the atmosphere, books, and gifts but because it’s in one of the most impressive, exciting and innovative destinations in the capital.

📍 Unit 74, Battersea Power Station, London, SW11 8BU

🌍 batterseabookshop.com

10 | Cecil Court

Cecil Court isn’t a bookshop but a street of many bookshops, hence its nickname of Bookseller’s Row. Despite that, it deserves a place on this list because it’s lovely in many ways besides books. It’s an attractive street, lined with excellent Victorian shop fronts, selling all sorts of books, from first editions to children’s books. There are also a few other bits on offer, like maps, prints and antiques. Interestingly, it was once the temporary home of Mozart, that famous composer. It’s a tremendous little London street worth a wander down, even if you’re not a book lover. And if you’d like to know more about the street, check out our handy little guide to Cecil Court .

📍 West End, London, WC2N 4HE

🌍 cecilcourt.co.uk

Bookshops in London Map

What is the biggest bookshop in London?

Waterstones Picadilly is the biggest bookshop in London. It’s their flagship store and the largest bookshop in Europe, with eight floors and 13km of bookshelves!

What is the oldest bookshop in London?

Hatchards in Piccadilly is the oldest bookshop in London. It’s been selling books since 1797. Their reputation is so strong, and they’ve been going so long that they are the holder of three Royal Warrants, meaning the Royal Family use them to buy books.

What is the quirkiest bookshop in London?

The quirkiest bookshop in London title has to go to Word on the Water in King’s Cross. That’s because it’s on a barge on a canal! It also has a lovely interior delicately designed to reflect the character of the barge and what it sells.

Bookshops in London

2 | Word on the Water – The London Bookbarge

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Tags England , Europe , London , Places to Visit , Things to do

The 100 best shops in London

Ready to splash the cash? Plan your shopping spree with our guide to the capital’s best shops

From top-tier off-licences to under-the-radar vintage shops, specialised delis, plant havens and everything in between, we’ve shopped (and dropped) our way through the capital’s retail offering. You really can buy whatever you want in this city – you just need to know where to look. That’s why we’ve put together this definitive list of the capital’s 100 best shops for 2024.

You won’t find massive famous ones like Liberty , Harrods and Hamleys here: everyone knows them. You won’t find obvious high street names or the big shopping centres either. But you will find a selection of excellent independent shops and some real quirky places you might have never known existed. Did someone say a butcher which turns into a listening bar? What about an expert collector of old-school tech? A bookshop which specialises in witchcraft? Or a boutique where you’ll find gorgeous retro furnishings for bargain prices?

This is our ultimate guide to shopping in the capital. Just don’t blame us if you get a little carried away next payday.

Chiara Wilkinson is Time Out London’s Features Editor. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

RECOMMENDED: London’s best secondhand shops, picked by experts The best markets in London for shopping and browsing The best car boot sales in London

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Amazing London shops

1. Daunt Books Marylebone

Best for: a vast array of page-turners

One of London’s most charming bookshops, Daunt’s Marylebone flagship is pretty as a picture. The Edwardian building is literally packed to the rafters with books. From the vaulted ceiling to the William Morris accent walls and stained-glass windows, the store’s fixtures and fittings are delightfully old-fashioned. Particularly worthy of a browse is the vast travel section: ordered by country, it’s enough to induce wanderlust in the most homely of homebodies.

2. Rough Trade East

Music and entertainment

Best for : rare vinyl and in-store gigs It’s one of the youngest stores in the Rough Trade stable, but Rough Trade East has become the company’s definitive London outpost. Located in the bustling Old Truman Brewery, it boasts an expertly curated collection of vinyl, CDs and books, as well as a café and a stage for the ever-popular in-store gigs. The sets are generally shorter than regular gigs, but we’re certainly not complaining.

3. Algerian Coffee Stores

Off licences

Best for: all things caffeine-related

A Soho institution, this shoebox-sized shop on Old Compton Street has been trading since 1887, long before coffee got cool. Buzz seekers can choose from more than 80 blends which are all available as beans or ground. Those into their coffee gadgets can marvel at electronic grinders, thermometers, tampers, milk frothers, while those living the decaf life will be impressed by the selection of caffeine-free blends. Despite the name, ACS also stocks a vast array of quality teas for all over the world.

4. The Goodhood Store

Best for: streetwear with a sense of humour

Game-changing concept shop The Goodhood Store on Curtain Road is s pread over two floors: the interior boasts little exhibition spaces, a basement café and a gnarly log cabin. The upscale, leftfield stock is hand-picked for Goodhood’s very East End customers, from hand-carved skateboards to cheap-as-chips mugs, badges and stickers. A very good ’hood, indeed.

5. Artwords

London Fields

Best for: coffee table books galore

Artwords has its finger firmly on the pulse when it comes to contemporary visual arts publications. Stock relating to fine art dominates, but there are also plenty of architecture, photography, graphic design, fashion, advertising, music and film titles, plus an excellent range of industry and creative magazines.

6. Serotonin Vintage

Best for: unique archive pieces

Brick Lane is a go-to for vintage clothing, but Serotonin is one of the neighbourhood’s standouts. Inside the cool showroom – where leopard print chairs meet neon pink walls – you’ll find designer bargains, retro accessories and one-off items with a punky emo edge. Browsing the racks here is always an eye-catching experience.

7. Santa Maria Novella

Perfumeries
South Kensington

Best for: stunning scents

The minuscule London outpost of the famed Florentine pharmacy, founded by Dominican friars, sells beautifully packaged lotions, perfumes, eaux de colognes, exfoliating powders, pot pourri, scented paper and soaps. The shop can’t compete with the Italian version, located in a 13th-century frescoed chapel, but the products from one of the world’s oldest herbal pharmacies (the company was officially founded in 1612, though its origins date back as far as 1221) are the same.

8. Japan Centre

Best for: satisfying takoyaki cravings

Japan doesn’t feel quite so far away when you’re surrounded by miso in this subterranean supermarket. Grab some takoyaki with dancing bonito flakes to fuel your shopping from the upstairs café, before browsing more noodles, very sharp knives and Kewpie mayo than you can shake a Pocky stick at. It’s the closest you can get to Japan without the 12-hour flight.

9. Loon Fung Supermarket

Best for: stocking the larder

When it opened in 1965, Loon Fung was one of the UK’s first Chinese supermarkets. It’s since become a Chinatown institution where home cooks and professional chefs alike flock for the best Chinese ingredients, tableware and cooking tools. Now a mini-chain, you’ll also find Loon Fung stores in Alperton, Colindale, Stratford and Tottenham.

10. Lina Stores

Best for: authentic Italian delicacies

This wonderful family-run Italian deli has been trading from its Brewer Street shop since 1944 and even now it’s still a proper Soho gem. An alluring, mint green-coloured building from the outside, inside Lina Stores is a treasure trove of Italy’s finest consumables. Bottles of passata, jars of olives, tins of brined sardines and bags of dried spaghetti fill the shelves on one side of the store, whilst a counter brimming with authentic cheeses, cured meats, cakes and fresh ravioli lines the other.

11. Conservatory Archives

Best for: beaut houseplants

One visit to Conservatory Archives’ urban jungle and you’ll be lusting after its hanging greenery and climbing vines. The shop on Hackney Road is one lavish indoor garden, a stark space with peeling plaster walls and big windows, stuffed full of weird, wacky and wild vegetation. Prepare to fall hard for the green stuff.

12. Tate Modern Shop

Best for: beautiful things you don’t need, but absolutely must have

Laughing in the face of rainbow rubbers and giant pencils, the Tate Modern’s gift shop is full of lovely things that you would actually want: David Shrigley dominoes, Guerrilla Girls tea towels, Yinka Shinobare crockery, Hockney tote bags, Grayson Perry’s silk scarves. Artfully positioned at the museum’s entrance you don’t even need to pretend to be interested in the art to shop there.

13. TFC Supermarket

Supermarkets

Best for: really, really good flatbreads

Specialising in global food – think Mediterranean flavours from Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Italy, and Spain as well as a few I ranian and Moroccan groceries thrown in for good measure – TFC Supermarket caters for eclectic tastes. Products f rom Easte rn European countries including Poland and Bulgaria are on offe r , too. The chain has several branches across No rth London, including outposts in Edmonton, Enfield, Tottenham, Wood Green, Palmers Green and Highhams Park.

14. Shop Cuvée

Best for: natty wines with all the trimmings

This lovely Highbury deli is the place to go for natural wines and accompanying meats and cheeses. Whethe r you’re a wine buff or don’t know your Pinot from your Riesling, the friendly staff will help you find a top tipple. If you’d rather make an evening of it, head to neighbouring Top Cuvée for glasses and small plates.

15. Phonica

Best for: dancefloor-ready vinyl

The doors are always flung open at this lively elect ronic and dance vinyl hubbub. Recline on the battered leather sofas and egg-shaped chairs that give the chic space a 1970s feel, or finger through rack upon rack of pristinely selected records favouring the deeper and edgier side of club music. The balanced selection journeys around the world taking in nu jazz, krautrock, minimal techno, exotica, dubstep, d rum and bass and nu disco flavours, but fluorescent-clad kids best head for the front rack of French electro labels. The staff – DJs-about-town – are happy to help you dig out a hard-to-find release.

16. Club Soda Tasting Room

Bars and pubs
Covent Garden

Best for: alcohol-free beveraginos

As the first permanent UK site for mindful drinking collective, Club Soda, this cute Covent Garden shop and tasting room sells more than 150 low-alcohol and alcohol-free drinks brands. Expect cocktails, zero-percent beer on tap and masterclasses for those looking to explore a ‘low and no’ lifestyle.

17. Dover Street Market

Leicester Square

Best for: avant-garde international fashion

One for the real fashionistas, Dover Street Market is more atune to an art gallery than a store, with impressive pieces by flaming hot designers standing out against in-store installations and white walls. Carrying a truly comprehensive stock, it has fashion dons like Gucci and Valentino, the Commes labels, as well as streetwear heros and up-and-comers like Chopova Lowena. A true fashion mecca, it houses collections from some of the capital’s brightest stars.

18. Lofty’s Furniture

Best for: bargain good quality furniture

Now located in Bow after several years in neighbouring Bethnal Green, this East End furniture warehouse specialises in liquidation stock, cancelled orders and samples. This means it’s the place to go for quality household names (John Lewis, Made.com, etc.) at prices you’d never get anywhere else. If you’ve a new flat to fill, Lofty's should definitely be on your rada r.

19. Panzer's

St John’s Wood
price 3 of 4

Best for: bagels and other essentials

This much-loved Jewish deli has been doing roaring buisiness in St John’s Wood since 1944. It’s had something of a glow-up in recent years, and as well as stocking a vast array of global goods, fancy grocery bits, kosher essentials and their own pies, soups and baked goods (AKA some of the best bagels in town) – there’s also a coffee bar. Hit up the outdoor terrace too for a slap-up breakfast featuring their famous smoked salmon with a toasted bagel, cream cheese and pickles. A London landmark.

20. Mad Atelier

Best for: unique home pieces

This cute design and homeware shop in lower Clapton features all sorts of indie makers with a good range of prices. From gorgeous crockery to lovely lamps and soft furnishings, you’ll find a variety of statement pieces to brighten up your dreary flatshare in no time. Don’t forget to explore the downstairs, too.

21. International Magic

Best for: real-life wizardry

This delightful family-run shop, in operation for over 60 years, is an Aladdin’s Cave for wannabe and professional magicians and those who just want to learn a few party tricks to impress and baffle their friends. Impromptu tricks and gimmicks include a huge range of playing cards and coin tricks, while the large selection of stage tricks range from floating lightbulbs to vanishing cabinets. Arcane books and tutorial DVDs will show you the ropes, and, for those who want to go one step further, there’s the opportunity to undertake courses, catered for a range of different levels, plus hear lectures by professional magicians.

22. Nour Cash and Carry

Best for: serious spices

This Brixton institution moved from its previous spot on Market Row to a larger space in neighbouring Granville Arcade. Run by Saja Shareen and her family for more than 30 years, it’s become a go-to destination for hard-to-find global ingredients and rare spices. It’s the very embodiment of a global grocer, right in the hea rt of south-west London.

23. FARA Charity Shop

Charity shops
Pentonville Road

Best for: second-hand gems

Popula r with sustainable fashion enthusiasts and the Depop girlies, this Angel charity shop has a reputation for yielding designer bargains. It’s filled with fabulous shoes and retro accessories as well as qui rky clothing items, so a llow yourself enough time to scour the racks and rummage through the jumble.

24. James Smith & Sons

Gifts and souvenirs
Oxford Street

Best for: umbrellas that are built to last

There’s one essential accessory for life in London, and it’s not a Burberry mac, a Mulberry tote or a corgi-print tea towel: it’s an umbrella. James Smith & Sons have been selling them from this charming New Oxford Street shop for over 150 years. The gilt front has remained unchanged, and the customer service is old school, too. As well as an array of ceremonial umbrellas, there are high-tech folding models and beautifully designed everyday styles. Just don’t leave your new purchase on the tube.

25. Salvino

Kentish Town

Best for: delicious Italian delicacies

Founded by the Salvino brothers, Antonio and Stefano, back in 1979, this popula r deli offers Camden wanderers authentic Italian produce and home-cooked meals from family recipes. Drop in to bag a bottle of wine (from a choice of over 50) or sit down for handmade ravioli, pizza and arancini. You can also pick up delicious homemade Italian past ries and fresh-made sandwiches. No one goes hung ry at Salvino.

26. Vintage Wireless

Lisson Grove

Best for: clunky, old-school tech

A retro tech lover’s dream located close to Edgware Road tube, Vintage Wireless sells, repairs and hires out classic and collectible music kit dating from the 1930s to the 1970s. It’s the place to go for vintage amps, tuners, turntables, record players, speakers, cassette decks, 8-t racks and spare parts, plus vinyl reco rds and books and magazines on hi-fi culture. In other words: it’s a ve ritable treasure trove and a heady step back in time.

27. Neal’s Yard Dairy

Specialist food and drink
Seven Dials

Best for: top quality cheese

Neal’s Yard Dairy began championing small cheesemakers when the shop opened in 1979 and has been central to creating a huge community of high-quality cheesemakers in Britain and Ireland. Like Monmouth Coffee, NYD has larger branches in Borough and Bermondsey, but this tiny, fragrant nook wins hands-down on character. When they offer taste after taste, don’t say no!

28. Present & Correct

Art, craft and hobbies
Clerkenwell

Best for: covetable stationery Youll find all the stationery you could ever need – plus more that you’ll convince yourself you do – in the small but perfectly formed Present & Correct. With leather pencil cases and lovely notebooks galore, their collections blend the latest designs from Japan and Scandinavia.

29. Borough Wines

Best for: little-known vineyards

Starting life as a stall in the drool-inducing Borough market, this independent wine shop is a testament to London’s boozy ways. Their original postbox-sized outpost of the brilliant wine shop carries an excellent edit of plonk from smaller producers and family firms, plus a wine and beer refill station. Cheers!

30. magCulture

Best for: independent magazines

Print lovers, rejoice! Here’s a shop dedicated to perfectly-bound paper and it’s absolutely brilliant. Located on the Islington end of St John Street, magCulture stocks hundreds of independent magazines from all over the world. Whatever your niche, you’ll find a publication to interest you – from art and football magazine ‘OOF’ to ‘DOG’, a magazine about, erm, dogs. Even if you aren't going to read them, go bag a few mags to brighten up your coffee table.

31. Prangsta Costumiers

Best for: all-out Gatsby glamour

Since 1998, this New Cross costume hi re store has been supplying exquisite handmade garments and accessories to performers and partygoers alike. Because each item is hired out as many times as it’s asked for – as you can imagine, Gatsby and Game of Thrones-style outfits have historically been ve ry popular – it’s a business model rooted in sustainability. And they supply corresponding props, too.

32. Stella’s

Newington Green

Best for: proper chops (and proper tunes)

A small herd, whole-carcass butcher shop on the corner of Newington Green, Stella’s is known for its excellent quality produce, eye-catching neon signs and the fact that on Thursday and Friday evenings it turns into a very trendy listening bar called System, which serves up natural wine and craft beers while a rotation of local DJs playing their favourite vinyl on a Tannoy speaker system from 1976. Conceptually it probably shouldn’t work – a subtle whiff of meat still lingers in the air as you sip your low-intervention Cabernet Franc – but Hackney audiophiles go mad for it.

33. The Box

Discount fashion

Best for: bagging a bargain

Want to nab yourself some heavily discounted designer goods? You’ll probably want to follow The Box on Instagram, where they post all the deets about their upcoming sample sales, and then plan to wait in a pretty long queue (the earlier, the better). We promise it will be worth it: The Box hosts massive names like Prada, Matches, Liberty and Martine Rose, all at up to 80 percent off.

34. Revere The Residence

Stoke Newington

Best for: gifting (while gifting some good)

This social enterprise on Stokey high street sells nifty homewares and one-of-a-kind artworks created by local young people with learning disabilities. In other words: if you’re planning on buying ceramics, paintings, cards and crafts anyway, you should probably get it from here and help out a good cause at the same time.

35. Milroy's of Soho

Best for: rare whiskies

There’s an Old World charm to London’s oldest whisky shop, and the small, low-lit space is lined with enough bottles of the glorious amber stuff to make you feel a bit sozzled just by entering. There are fabulously rare and fiendishly expensive bottles, but there's also a big selection of more affordable options, perfect for a posh, boozy gift. Somehow they've squeezed a couple of bars in – one in the main shop that functions during opening hours and one swish, speakeasy-styled basement bar, Vault, serving cocktails in the evenings.

36. London Graphic Centre

Best for: quality art supplies

Whether you’re a keen novice, a seasoned professional or just easily pleased by shelf upon shelf stationery, you’ll find plenty to suit at the flagship branch of one of London’s major suppliers of art and graphics materials. Arty books and magazines, lightboxes, modelling clays and spray paint are clearly and thoughtfully arranged, along with a reliably good selection of arty gifts – think wind-up tin toys and tiny notebooks adorned with cartoon Warhols and Dalis.

37. Reelstore

Walthamstow

Best for: cinematic shopping

Walls looking a bit bare? Here you’ll find an awesome selection of posters and frames to brighten up them the hell up. Reelstore specialises in old movie posters and film prints – you’ll be just as likely to find some obscure indie cinema advert as you would a 1960s Jungle Book flyer. If you’re a film buff, it’s worth popping in to browse their cinema-related books and other memorabilia.

38. Aria

Best for: hot furniture and home accessories

Housed in an impressive Victorian concert hall, Aria is one of London’s best design destinations. The painstakingly restored original features contrast beautifully with the contemporary homewares. As well as kitchenware, clocks and lighting from big names like Alessi, you’ll find glorious prints by Oliver Taylor, plus plenty of quirky treasures. There’s also a tempting selection of posh toiletries, including old-style apothecary and Scandi skincare brands.

39. Nourished Communities

Best for: glorious groceries with a conscience

If you’re after organic, locally-sourced food products – while supporting ethical dairy, local and biodynamic farmers – then this is the place for you. Grab one of their well-priced vegetable boxes, some gluten free pasta or next-level sourdough, or treat yourself to a delicious handmade empanada. They have branches in Islington, Walthamstow and Finsbury Park.

40. Treadwell’s Bookshop

Best for: supernatural page-turners

A boutique bookshop and suitably atmosphe ric cultural centre for those with an interest in witchc raft, magic, spirituality, culture, religion, divination and more. Treadwell's have both secondhand and new books on offer, and rare and unusual editions too. They also host a regular lecture series and workshops for people interested in various aspects of magical thinking and esoteric a rts . On top of all that, you can swing by fo r a tarot reading with one of their six tarot consultants.

41. Peckham Soul

Best for: record shopping with a community feel

Founded by adopted local Craig Jameson shortly after he moved to Peckham in 2014, this eclectic indie vinyl label-slash-record shop based in Rye Lane’s Bussey Building is considered a proper south east London institution thanks to its devotion to championing the area’s vibrant local music scene.

42. That’s Not Fair

Best for: top-tier kids clothing

This children’s clothing shop stocks well-made pieces and accessories which will have your little humans dressed to the nines. The shop is adult and kid-friendly and the clothes themselves are made of genuinely high quality fabrics and have a timeless feel. You’ll leave wishing they made them in grown-up sizes.

43. Eat 17

Restaurants
Contemporary European

Best for: a surprisingly brilliant variety of condiments and produce

The most pimped grocery shop youll ever step into, the Homerton branch of Eat17 (and Spar) is housed in an art deco picture house and has a dedicated organic and craft beer section, sushi bar and a boutique florist. Total foodie heaven, youll go in for a pint of milk and a loaf of sourdough bread (this is Hackney, now) and you’ll leave with beetroot hummus, homemade salted caramel brownies, a jar of bacon jam and rainbow trout from the fresh fish counter. Of course, that’s why we love it.

44. Condor Cycles

Best for: bespoke bikes

A Gray’s Inn Road stalwart since 1948, family-run Condor Cycles is the store of choice for those in search of top-notch cycling kit: Condor’s beautiful bikes have tackled the Tour de France and won world championships. Bikes can be built to order on a bespoke basis or purchased off the rack, while the range of accessories for the more casual rider is one of the best in town.

45. Lewis Leathers

Best for: legendary leathers

With Kate Moss parading around in its tough-ass boots and every rocker worth their salt (The Clash, The Sex Pistols, Ramones) having worn its biker jackets, Lewis Leathers is a true Brit heritage brand. Just a stone’s throw from its original site, and still using the same phone number it had in the 1930s, this icon of bikerwear cool sells 15 classic vintage designs from the ’60s and ’70s. It’s not cheap – most jackets are over £800.

46. KJ’s Laundry

Best for: classic cuts

This small-but-perfectly-formed Marylebone boutique is home to understated, incredibly wearable labels. Founders Kate Allden and Jane Ellis track down soon-to-be cult classics before they become so by sourcing more under the radar brands, and then fill the store with stylish yet timeless pieces and wardrobe classics. Its eponymous own-brand is predictably great as well.

47. Bloom Perfumery

Best for: unusual fragrances

This unisex fragrance store, with branches in Shoreditch and the West End, is not to be sniffed at. If it’s a cheap scent you’re after, go elsewhere. But if you want to enjoy the process of trying out high-quality, unusual perfumes and hearing from knowledgeable staff about how they’ve been created, this is the place for you. Bloom stocks niche perfumes from brands including Arquiste, and also runs regular events and courses so you can find out more about what you’re buying.

48. Third Man Records

Best for: crate-diggers

This isn’t any record shop – this record shop is owned by Jack White ( of The White Stripes, The Raconteurs, The Dead Weather). Located on a busy Soho st reet, it has an eye-catching bright yellow exterior and sells White’s trademark pressing in obscure, limited-edition vinyl formats and often holds intimate gigs in the basement, which doubles as a label HQ. You can also press your own vinyl in-store and dig to your heart's content.

49. Clapton Craft

Best for: niche craft beer

‘Bottle shop’? Is that not just a fancy new term for an off-licence? Well, step through the door of this dedicated beer shop and you'll be forced to admit that ‘off-licence’ doesn’t quite cut it. You’ll find an enormous selection of bottles and cans of beer from London, the UK and beyond.

50. Machine-A

Best for: edgy new labels

Offering a platform for the capital’s most exciting and emerging designers, ever since its birth Machine-A has been a tireless champion of independent brands. Housing avant-garde brands that you know and love – the likes of Raf Simons, Maison Martin Margiela and Craig Green can all be found in there – what makes this Soho store unmissable are actually the names that you’ve never heard of but will be incredibly happy to discover. Expertly curated by founder and buying director Stavros Karelis, this buzzy boutique is an absolutely integral part of Soho.

51. Petersham Nurseries Covent Garden

Best for: pretty home decorations

The new centrally-located branch of Petersham Nurseries (the original is in Richmond) comes fit with two restaurants, a deli, a florist and a wine cellar, but it’s the shop that’s the main draw for us. Set in a Grade II-listed Victorian building, covetable antique furniture, fragrant candles, ceramics and other hand-crafted homewares sit amidst lush green foliage. In a nod to its roots, there’s also an array of potted plants and gardening accessories. If your purse strings are tight, just wandering around this shop is a delight.

52. Crystal Palace Reptiles

Crystal Palace

Best for: scaly, slithery animals

Also known as Crystal Palace Aquarium, this specialist pet shop is the place to go for unusual and hard-to-find reptiles, amphibians and fish. You can also pick up all the live food you’ll need to keep them happy, plus books and magazines offe ring tips on how to care for them.

53. The Conran Shop

Best for: haute homewares

Modernist pioneer Terence Conran has always had an impressively sharp eye for the decorative, and nowhere is this more evident than at his Fulham Road flagship store. The Conran Shop presents a knowledgeable edit of investment pieces like Jacobsen and Eames chairs alongside an unusual and beautiful collection of decorative wares from international designers.

54. Cheeses Of Muswell Hill

Muswell Hill

Best for: weird and wonderful cheeses

If you’re not from the area, it’s worth making the pilgrimage north to this local cheese haven. Opened in the early eighties by owner Morgan McGlynn, it stocks a vast range of artisan products from independent dairies. The shop’s less traditional offerings are a real draw too, like the Choco 21, an Italian blue cheese aged in chocolate liqueur. While samples are aplenty, the shop can also host bespoke cheese tasting sessions.

55. House of Hackney

Best for: future home classics

Britishness runs through every stitch and paintbrush swirl at House of Hackney’s flagship. The store flicks two fingers at minimalism; it’s decked out in the deliberately over-the-top juxtapositions of print-on-print-on-print that have made the brand’s name. From the dusky gothic Dalston Rose to the heady '70s Palmeral, all of HoH’s beautiful prints are here, on everything from armchairs to oven gloves. Look out for the collaboration with the estate of their aesthetic forefather and fellow east Londoner, William Morris.

56. General Eyewear

Camden Market

Best for: retro specs General Eyewear is a far cry from Specsavers. The Camden showroom is a true insider’s secret that’s found on the speed dial of every major fashion mag and costume director in the land – Eddie Redmayne recently wore custom-made General specs for his Oscar-bothering turn as Stephen Hawking. The ’70s and ’80s frames on display hail from larger-than-life fashion houses like Versace, Moschino and Christian Lacroix, boasting a glamour and eccentricity that today’s mass market-courting designer specs often lack.

57. John Bell & Croyden

Health and beauty

Best for: an international edit of beauty brands

After two centuries of curing London’s maladies, age was starting to wither this venerable pharmacy. Cue a multimillion-pound revamp back in 2015, which balanced the store’s imposing heritage with an exhaustive range of new products. Antique apothecary bottles and Queen Victoria’s prescription book are dotted amongst a globetrotting selection of beauty brands.

58. Lock & Co Hatters

Best for: handsome headgear

Lock & Co Hatters has been a St James’ fixture since 1759, making it one of the oldest hat shops in the world. It’s also possibly one of the most famous. Inside, you’ll find one of the most comprehensive selections of classic headgear to be found in the capital: from bowlers to berets via top hats, panamas and a whole host of other fancy head-coverings. Whatever you decide upon, though, it's sure to be an investment piece: Lock & Co offer a comprehensive aftercare service, and have been known to repair and reshape hats up to 50 years old.

59. Paper Dress Vintage

Vintage shops

Best for: gigs and garments

Although this vintage treasure trove for retro finds has been around for years, it still lies undiscovered by many. Spread ove r two f loo r s, the spacious shop offers women’s and men’s clothing and accessories from the ’20s to the ’80s. There’s a particularly good selection of flowery summer dresses, and a fair range of shoes, handbags and gloves displayed on mismatched, kitsch sofas, chairs and tables. It’s not just about the clothes, though – Paper Dress Vintage also operates as a bar by night with a late license on F ridays and Satu rdays. Music events are held regularly here, too.

60. Hoxton Street Monster Supplies

Best for: treats for big kids of all ages

Purveyor of quality goods for monsters of every kind, this little curiosity shop is just the ticket for vampires, werewolves and humans on the prowl for Earwax (AKA fudge) or a pot of Creeping Dread (AKA boiled sweets) containing short stories by the likes of David Nicholls, Nick Hornby and Zadie Smith. Proceeds support the Ministry of Stories – an initiative that sees professional writers mentor young people in the art of story writing.

61. Article

Best for: classic sneakers brands

Tucked under a railway arch on Atlantic Road, the second branch of men’s streetwear store Article is a welcome addition to Brixton’s indie shopping scene. Under the corrugated metal roof (like a hipster Anderson shelter), you’ll find a careful edit of understated styles from brands like YMC, Edwin and Nixon. Tucked around the corner is the beautifully arranged shoe room, stocking an impressive array of trainers that’s almost too pretty to shop from. Almost.

62. Blackout II

Best for: quality vintage stock that spans the decades

This Covent Garden gem has been peddling vintage threads for well over 20 years – long before retro became fashionable. Here you’ll find a wonderful array of dress-up clothes, from ’30s cocktail frocks and Downton-esque beaded slips to slinky ’80s numbers. Home to a mind-boggling 1,000 pairs of vintage shoes, the basement is well worth a careful rummage: the knowledgeable staff will help you pinpoint the perfect decade.

63. Idle Moments

Bethnal Green

Best for: booze and beats

Run by the folks behind Dalston drinking den Brilliant Corners , this Columbia Road emporium offers a well-curated assortment of records and audio equipment, plus wine and other drinks – definitely a winning combination. After all, crate-digging can be a thirsty business.

64. London Astrology Shop

Best for: releasing your inner Mystic Meg

We’ve been looking into our Time Out crystal ball, and we predict a boom in astrology – if it’s not already here, that is. If you’re want to learn how to cleanse your crystals, swot up on the moon’s movements or pick up a deck of tarot cards, all signs point to the London Astrology Shop. This institution has specialised in astrological books since 1989; now you’ll find over 1,500 titles lining the shelves. Consider your esoteric needs met.

65. Monte’s Delicatessen

Best for: carb lovers

Did someone say ravioli? Head to this cute Canonbury deli for fine, fine Italian food and drink. From charcuterie to gelato, antipasto, wine, hand made pasta, burrata, ricotta from Sardinia and other cheeses, this stuff is imported directly from the motherland so you know it’s the real deal.

66. Pentreath & Hall

Best for: picture-perfect homewares and accessories

This petite store looks like the drawing room of a smart country house scaled to the size of a Shoreditch studio flat. It’s a tight squeeze, but there’s plenty packed into Ben Pentreath and Bridie Hall’s dinky boutique. Design and architecture books sit alongside vintage maps and china mugs, and there’s a pretty range of decoupage crockery from designer Hall. It’s an ideal gift destination, but you’ll inevitably find yourself stocking up on Pinterest-ing additions for your own pad, too.

67. Books for Cooks

Notting Hill

Best for: filling hungry bellies

Books for Cooks runs on a simple but very successful formula. From the small open kitchen, co-owner Eric Treuillé puts recipes from the cookbook(s) of the day to the test. There’s no choice – until it comes to pudding, when there’s an array of must-try cakes (lemon victoria sponge, raspberry and pear cake, or chocolate and orange cake, say) – but the standard of cooking is high. You can also take a cookery class in the demonstration kitchen upstairs.

68. Crisis Finsbury Park

Finsbury Park

Best for: actually good charity shop finds

This cha rity shop r un by Crisis, who specialise in offe ring help to homeless people, ranks among London’s best. Come to browse the racks packed with clothes, homeware, accessories, music, books and b ric-a-b rac, then g rab coffee and a snack at the on-site café. Crisis also has nume rous other charity shops dotted ac ross London, including Elephant, Camden, Camberwell, Kilburn and Dalston.

69. Palace

Best for: boujie skate hoodies

Where do skater boys go when they’re all grown up and have well-paid media jobs? Browsing the rails at Palace. A marble temple to the wooden thing on wheels, this luxe London-based brand has grown into a high-fashion player, with an empire built on limited-edition hoodies and T-shirts. It’s not cheap – around £140 for a hoodie, if not more – but that’s a small price to pay for street cred.

70. Atsuko Kudo

Holloway Road

Best for: rubber fetish wear

If you spy a glossy starlet stepping out in latex, chances are it’s from Atsuko Kudo, whose rubber styles have been sported by everyone from Lady Gaga to Kim Kardashian. Holloway Road’s latex specialists are known for fine filigree details, custom prints and perfect tailoring. You may have to take a deep breath to afford these designs, but the investment is reflected in the superb quality. Attentive staff and a surplus of talc are on hand to help relax rubber virgins.

71. Hub

Best for: brilliant luxe basics

Spot a gaggle of well-dressed yummy mummies nursing soya lattes in a Stokey café and chances are they’ll have picked up their Armorlux Breton tops and Ally Capellino totes at a branch of Hub. No. 49 on Stoke Newington’s swish Church Street houses womenswear – think stompy shoes from Grenson, Scandi-chic by Wood Wood and lovely denim from Bethnals – while No. 88 stocks many of the same labels but for chaps.

72. Crypt of the Wizard

Hackney Road

Best for: screamo

This Hackney record shop is a metalhead's dream. In addition to more than a thousand used and new heavy metal records, including all the usual subgenres, it stocks merch, zines, T-shirts and more. It’s open Thursday through Sunday (and by appointment only on Tuesday and Wednesday).

73. Burley Fisher Books

Best for: a cuppa and a good read

Having opened in 2016, this Haggerston book empo rium sells new and second-hand titles with a specialism in indie presses. Locals also come for the coffee and chat, plus regula r ‘in person’ events with authors and other book world luminaries. Get involved.

74. SCP

Best for: designer chairs and home accessories

A champion of functional but beautiful design for decades now, SCP does a brilliant job of blending contemporary exhibition and retail space. The ground floor features artfully displayed, aesthetically pleasing furniture from design giants like Terence Woodgate and Matthew Hilton, as well as pieces from SCP’s in-house brand. Downstairs, the basement showcases jewellery, accessories and stylish but tongue-in-cheek knick-knacks for the home. Find a new store on Pimlico Road too.

75. Beyond Retro Dalston

Best for: on-trend vintage pieces

If you're into your retro clothing then stopping by this vintage stalwart should be top of your to-do list. The biggest of all Beyond Retro’s stores, this is a vast warehouse of second-hand and vintage fashion, including both men and women's denim, shoes and accessories. It’s never old jumble here, however – every piece is hand-selected for the store and ranges always reflect current trends.

76. Berry Bros & Rudd

Best for: innovative wines

This comprehensive wine shop has been a family affair ever since it began trading in 1698. And while BBR still operates from its original premises on St James Street, where dark wood-panelled walls and low-hanging chandeliers exude grandeur, they have a shiny new shop around the corner on Pall Mall. It’s here that vino virgins and oenephiles alike can browse fine and rare wines from all over the globe and slurp on samples from their enomatic dispensing machines.

77. Libreria

Spitalfields

Best for: leisurely book browsing

Just a few paces from Brick Lane, Libraria’s dinky black shop front is deceptive – once through its small door and you'll discover books for days. A tunnel of double-height canary yellow walls is lined with rows and rows of books, making room for the occasional cushion-filled nook for visitors to sit and get cosy. Libraria isn't just the place for covetable hardbacks on philosophy, architecture, food and design, it hosts regular evening talks with authors and cultural speakers, screenings, performances and crafty workshops.

78. Botanique

Exmouth Market

Best for: crafty cards and gifts

This rustic gift shop on Exmouth Market is straight out of a home counties village high street, and that’s why it’s a treat to find it in Zone 1. All products here are hand-crafted and hand-selected by owner Alice, with many of the store’s products being made on-site, either at the shop counter or in the downstairs studio. Alongside cards, textiles, jewellery and ceramics, Botanique offers bespoke floristry too, with same-day delivery available across the country. There’s also second branch on Church Street, Stoke Newington.

79. 69b Boutique

Best for: sustainable womenswear that actually looks good

Finding ethical fashion is a tricky business, so let 69b Boutique do the hard work for you. This friendly little store near London Fields curates on-trend brands with eco-friendly and sustainable values. Amongst the rails you’ll find a pick ’n’ mix of high-end fabrics and contemporary cuts, with brands ranging from Veja trainers to cosy wool jumpers by Maska.

80. Hop Burns & Black

East Dulwich

Best for: niche local brews Hop Burns & Black on East Dulwich Road sells three things: beer, hot sauce and vinyl, with the former available to carry out in one-litre flagons (what similar operations call a ‘growler’, inevitably with a bit of puerile nudge-winkery). Thanks to a nifty counter-pressure filling machine, the grog stays fresh for weeks – although with breweries on offer including London’s finest, US legends and Kiwi trailblazers like Yeastie Boys, you’ll do well not to see it off in a single sitting.

81. Folk

Best for: understated style

Maybe you’ve heard of Folk, the London-based casual brand. It’s stocked in boutiques around the world, but here in London they’ve got three stores that are temples to their effortlessly cool clothes. At first glance it might not look like much, but Folk is all about the details: expect pillow-soft cotton T-shirts and sturdy denim. One for the casualwear geeks.

82. Couverture & The Garbstore

Best for: original and stylish gifts

The contents of this three-storey boutique are flawlessly curated. On the lower level is Ian Paley’s marvellous menswer label The Garbstore; every item is made using old-school techniques from the 1940s and ’50s and gets the nod of approval from even the snootiest of dapper gents. The upper floors are home to Couveture, which stocks an enticing range of homeware, plus a beautiful selection of women’s and children’s fashion.

83. Klasik Vintage Eyewear

Best for: enviable eyewear

Since 2001, the Klasik folks have been supplying Londoners with vintage eyewear from a bustling stall at Old Spitalfields Market. Now, they also have a bricks and mortar store just up the road in Bethnal Green. If you want your specs and sunnies to make an authentic retro statement, it's definitely the place to go.

84. Hedonism Wines

Best for: an array of exceptional booze

This glass-fronted shop in deepest Mayfair isn’t just for vino fans – it’s a haven for fine spirits too. The ground floor of this two-storey venue is a sleek, wooden-clad showroom of wine and liquor, but head down stairs to the MI5-like cellar and you can pine over hundreds of stored vintage bottles and sip 75cl samples from their ever-changing wine tasting menu. If you don’t drink, you’ll still be captivated by the oh-so Instagrammable wine glass chandeliers that hang from the store's ceiling.

85. Aelfred

Best for: serious Scandi furnishings

Opened in November in a massive Bow warehouse, Aelfred is a gorgeous new emporium of vintage Scandinavian furniture. Prices are capped at £2,500, with smaller items like crockery starting at £15, so grabbing a slice of Scandi style doesn’t have to break the bank.

86. N1 Garden Centre

De Beauvoir

Best for: plants, pots and all things nice

You’d maybe not expect to find a fully-fledged garden centre nestled into one of De Beauvoir’s house-lined streets, but hey, here we are. N1 might be compact but it has everything you’d ever need to get green-fingered: house plants, garden plants, seeds, soil, pots and tools. Walk past it and you’ll be greeted with the most wonderful smell – and be lured in to treat your patio to a new flower (or three).

87. Crystal Palace Antiques & Modern

Best for: furnishing your flat across the decades

There are 20 dealers selling across four storeys at this warehouse-style showroom. Each floor has its own character: if you like artily arranged mid-twentieth-century furniture, head down to the basement; if it's Victorian antiques you’re after, negotiate the tangle of chests, tables and accessories on the first floor. There are hundreds of pieces to consider, including vintage and modern design items, so leave plenty of time to roam around.

88. Divertimenti

Best for: kitchen essentials

Cooks will salivate in this fantastic store. If you need something with which to blanch, zest, grate, glaze or dust, then you’re almost guaranteed to find it here. There’s a good range of top-quality kitchen classics from the likes of Kitchenaid Artisan, a dazzling array of knives and attractive chunky earthenware. Venture downstairs for staggeringly pricey cookers by La Cornue, plus copper pans, enormous mortar and pestles, super-thick wooden chopping boards and old-fashioned ice-cream scoops. The baking section is exhaustive. If you don’t think you merit fancy cooking tools yet, then enlist in its cookery school to hone your skills.

89. Owl Bookshop

Best for: book recommendations

The Owl has been owned by Daunt Books for some years, but you’d never know it: this greatly loved Kentish Town local retains its independent feel. Staff are very keen on books, and they take advice on good new books from their customers, who in this area are a pretty well-read bunch. The kids’ section encourages flop-down-and-read sessions; fiction and biography are probably the best of the adult sections.

90. The Nunhead Gardener

Things to do

Best for: green-fingered purchases

The Nunhead Gardener is a local gem. Staffed by a knowledgeable team of keen horticulturists, it stocks indoor and outdoor plants, pots, barks and soils, plus tools and feeders and garden decorations. Candles and diffuse rs a re available, too, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to improve their flat’s zen quality. Since it opened, The Nunhead Gardener has blossomed into a small chain with outposts in Mayfair, Elephant Park and Camberwell, which has its own floristry department.

91. Next Door Records

Shepherd’s Bush

Best for: records, gigs and a bit of booze

The vinyl revival is still going strong and this Uxbridge Road shop is the latest place to get your wax fix. Not an audiophile obsessive? The café, bottle shop and live performances at Nextdoor Records mean it’s likely to be your new favourite hangout – whether you know what a 45 is or not. They also host some pretty decent supper club residencies.

92. Retrouvius

Kensal Green

Best for: handpicked furniture gems

In the secret address book of many interior designers, Retrouvius is a salvage shop that specialises in sourcing quirky reclaimed goods. You might find everything f rom a perfectly preserved lute to a painted timber surveyor’s pole he re . But there’s more than just novelty goods: owners Adam Hills and Maria Speake have been finding glorious old mirrors, farmhouse tables and lab worktops since 1993, and have a real knack for spotting the beauty in industrial fittings and other people’s cast-offs.

93. The Electric Paintbrush

Best for: getting inked

This small but sleek tattoo shop in Tottenham – with walls all decorated with prints and all the inspo you could need – has a real warmth about it: the staff will go out of their way to make sure you feel welcome and to get your design just right. We’re talking next-level attention to detail executed by proper professionals.

94. Modern Society

Best for: photo-worthy cakes and clothing

Housed on Shoreditch’s increasingly glossy Redchurch Street, Modern Society is a destination boutique. With a lovely selection of fashion, jewellery and homeware from across the globe, it’s the perfect place to pick up gifts – or for some more selfish shopping. Its dinky little café serves top brews, plus a host of Instagrammable snacks.

95. Rigby & Peller

Best for: bras fit for a queen

If it’s good enough for Her Majesty, it’s good enough for us. Rigby & Peller was granted a royal warrant in 1960, and has been making Queen Elizabeth II’s smalls ever since. Book an appointment to be expertly fitted for ready-to-wear lingerie, or measured for a bespoke brassiere. The Mayfair boutique (there are also outposts in Chelsea, St Jonh's Wood, Bow Lane and Knightsbridge) also stocks other premium brands such as Aubade, Simone Perele and Cosabella.

96. Think Vintage

Borough of Sutton

Best for: big time bargains

Located in Worcester Park, south west London, Think Vintage is a veritable second-hand paradise. Because the owners team with a local property clearance company, they’re able to fill their warehouse store with everything from clothes to furniture and household items to bric-a-brac. They count numerous TV production companies among their regular customers, but everyone is welcome to come in, rummage and hopefully pick up a bargain.

97. Pickled Pepper Books

Best for: sorting out storytime

For accompanying adults, the cosy café area is a serious draw at this children’s bookshop in Crouch End. Along with storybooks for babies to teens, there’s an excellent selection of non-fiction for kids. There are weekly baby and toddler activities and an after-school bookclub for older children, plus regular author events, children’s book art exhibitions, and family theatre events at weekends.

98. Twentytwentyone

Best for: minimal Scandi furnishings

Set over two spacious floors, the sleek lines and muted colours of Islington’s Twentytwentyone display minimalist furniture and accessories at their most appealing. Beloved of local architects and designers there’s a Scandi-slant to the carefully sourced stock, and sound advice on investing in classic retro furniture is always on hand. Look out for artful kids’ gifts and the timeless mid-century designs of Eames and Robin Day.

99. YMC

Best for: cool casualwear for him and her

Brit brand YMC (otherwise known as You Must Create) shines with its lines of contemporary, wearable style for men and women, which have remained quietly relevant for more than 20 years now. It’s glass-fronted Shoreditch store is light and airy, and is the perfect environment to browse (and then buy) YMC's chic designs, on-trend shoes and quirky accessories.

100. Get Stuffed

Best for: controversial homeware

Taxidermy specialists Get Stuffed have been providing their services for over four decades, and are based in North London. They specialise in pet work and are ‘run under the umbrella of The International CITES Regulations and the European Wildlife Legislation’.

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The ultimate guide to shopping in London

GettyImages-599834779-scaled-e1600196545259

London is a fantastic shopping destination -- in fact, you could easily visit just for that purpose. It is also, in my opinion, one of the fashion capitals of the whole world -- so what better spot for a wardrobe shake-up or something for a special occasion?

London is huge, multicultural and full of shops for every budget, so I challenge you to not to be able to find something you love.

So whether it's art, haute couture, vintage clothes, jewelry or even just a souvenir, there are places that will suit you. Combined with our capital's amazing food scene and collection of lovely cocktail and coffee spots, you can have a dreamy day of retail therapy -- solo or with someone else -- very easily.

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Department stores

London has loads of these -- from the super swanky Harrods, Selfridge's and Fortnum & Mason to the more mainstream options like Debenhams. Despite the differences in price tags, they are all a "one shop stop" for everything. But each has its own charm. Harrods opened in 1849 and is famous for being the purveyor of all things fancy, from food to furniture to lion cubs (yes, you could buy exotic animals there even until the 1970s).

It's located in Knightsbridge and is a very pleasant place to while away a few hours, admiring the lavish decor and liveried doormen and maybe stopping off for a snack at one of its 23 eateries.

Read more : 10 awesome things to do in London for free

England, London, Knightsbridge, Harrods, Food Hall, Chocolate Counter (Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Selfridge's, on Oxford Street, is more modern and its beauty hall is mind-blowing. Fortnums is worth a visit for its food hall and Liberty, in a Tudor-revival building near Oxford Circus, is the place for homeware and fabrics. Meanwhile, Debenhams and John Lewis are handy for slightly more affordable ware with a mix of high street and designer products.

All department stores tend to have nice restaurants and Champagne bars, and I have some very fond memories of looking for bridesmaids dresses and inspiration for my wedding at both Harrods and John Lewis (or Peter Jones) on Sloane Square.

London boasts some incredible markets -- perfect for finding real hidden treasures. Borough Market in London Bridge is the go-to one for foodies. It's teeming with stalls from truffles to fish to ice cream to the stinkiest of cheeses. If it's not food you're after, Leadenhall Market in the City was originally a meat, poultry and game market but is now home to a "number of boutique retailers, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and an award-winning pub".

Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, UK. (Photo by RoBeDeRo/Getty Images)

Another TPG favorite is Columbia Road Flower Market, near trendy Shoreditch. Open every Sunday, you can get blooms for a bargain and it's also full of vibey coffee shops and some lovely bars. Portobello Market near Notting Hill in west London is fabulous for antiques, comics, records and vintage clothes and the shops go on for nearly two miles. The pretty pastel-colored houses and cafes are very charming, too.

In the south-east is Greenwich Market, open daily and covered, too, so ideal if it rains. Greenwich is a personal favorite for present shopping, as there are lots of affordable and quirky stalls and once I've found the perfect gift, I treat myself to a giant ice cream at Panache.

Vintage clothes shopping is almost a sport is some cities. In particularly good shops, it can get very aggressive, like being at a New York sample sale. Naturally, there are lots of decent vintage shops scattered throughout the city, but there is a large concentration of them in the Brick Lane/Shoreditch/Spitalfields areas of east London and the City.

Some personal recommendations are Beyond Retro -- it's labyrinthine, so be prepared to spend a while there. It's in a former dairy on Cheshire Street and opened in 2002. You can find everything from cowboy boots to vintage sunglasses to fabulously hideous 1980s prom dresses. It's so fun and there are also branches in Soho and Dalston.

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Other great vintage shops in the area include Hunky Dory Vintage, Rokit and Brick Lane Vintage Market (loads of stalls all under one roof). One of my favorite-ever finds was an old cheerleading jacket from a random high school in Idaho.

For a real "Sex and the City" feeling -- even if you're not buying -- head to New Bond Street in Mayfair and its environs to gaze in the windows of labels like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, YSL, Chloe, Cartier and much more. Christmas is a great time to window shop here, as each house takes its festive window dressing very seriously. It's also the third most expensive street in the world to rent shop space, according to Retail Gazette.

Read more : The complete guide to London's parks and green spaces

If you're in the market for a treat, you can spend an afternoon making your way down Old Bond Street towards Fenwicks and veer off to South Molton Lane, Bruton Street and more. After spending loads of money, a little more won't hurt for a cocktail at Mews of Mayfair , surely?

Other shopping spots to note

1. the king's road.

This road that snakes through Chelsea is a mecca for affluent millennials and is dotted with up-and-coming fashion designers and shops selling gorgeous but pricey trinkets. It's associated with 1960s-style as both Mary Quant and Vivienne Westwood had (and have) stores there. Chelsea is also home to lots of excellent restaurants -- including one of my favorites, No. Fifty Cheyne , so worth a visit to the area just for that. The King's Road, at two miles long, starts at Sloane Square station.

2. Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is another London epicenter of style and culture and was where the Swinging Sixties era was said to have started. It was also home to the Mod, Skinhead, Punk and New Romantic movements and has got a pretty rock 'n' roll heritage too. The Small Faces, The Who and the Rolling Stones performed in nearby Soho and Carnaby Street is referenced in many songs such as "Dedicated Follower of Fashion" by The Kinks.

Read more : An expert's guide to London neighborhoods

The Stones even have their own shop there now. There are also "over 100 international and British heritage labels, independent boutiques, one-off concepts, cult beauty emporiums, grooming salons and bespoke jewelry specialists". There's a really exciting atmosphere on Carnaby Street and every Christmas and during big events, it's like walking down a street in a film set.

3. ICON Outlet, the 02

This is the spot for bargain hunters with taste. Part of the O2 Arena in North Greenwich, this discounted outlet offers up to 70% off mid-luxury brands such as Aspinal of London, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Levi's. It's modern and airy and without the huge crowds found at some outlets, and afterwards, there is plenty to do in the arena itself.

Bottom line

From reading this far, you would be right in assuming I love to shop. I'm also very lucky that I live somewhere so brilliant at it. However, I have the benefit of having had quite a bit of practice here. The first time I visited New York or Paris , I felt overwhelmed (actually, panicky is more accurate) at all the choice. What if I couldn't find all the beautiful things? Shopaholic or not, I hope this guide helps you make a plan, figure out where is best suited to you and most of all -- find something to buy that no one else has!

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27 Best Things to Do in London

By Sonya Barber and Ramsay Short

London: the city that has anything and everything you could possibly want in a vibrant, world-class capital. Your only real problem is working out what you can miss. With over 170 museums, 3,000 parks, 3,500 pubs and an ever-changing number of restaurants, there’s almost too much to see, do and eat—even for a life-long Londoner.

Truly, the city is too large, and too rich in options, for you to get to it all in one visit; you'll have to make some hard choices. Which incredible food or clothing-market to browse? Tate Modern or the British Museum? Where should you pick for a perfect, full-English breakfast? Where's the best afternoon tea ? How do you pick from all the abundant pubs ? And don't get us started here on the best restaurants . Thankfully, our locally led list of the best things to do in London is here to help you decide—just don’t try to do it all in one day.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Tower of London Arrow

Built by William the Conqueror in 1066, this uncompromising slab of a building has been many things—including the site where Henry VIII ordered the execution of two of his wives. Now the Tower is most famous as the home of the Crown Jewels. Come, take a tour from one of the Beefeaters (offered every half hour), and gawp at the sparkling and the frightening alike.

Kew Gardens Arrow

A spectacular 500 acre garden in west London, Kew boasts one of the biggest and most diverse botanical collections in the whole world. There’s been a botanic garden here since the 18th century when it was a royal palace; today it’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage site with over a whopping 50,000 plants, it’s also just a really lovely place to visit. You can spend a whole day gently wandering along the winding paths through the lawns, trees, lake, Japanese garden, rhododendron dell, rose garden and kid’s play area, as well as popping in and out of the grand glasshouses. It’s a calming and tranquil place (as long as you avoid the playground on a school holiday) but you can also learn plenty about plants along the way.

Tate Modern Arrow

This former oil-fired power station sits smugly in the center of the South Bank, knowing that you’re interested in what’s going on inside. It’s filled to the rafters with paintings and sculptures by the likes of Picasso, Dali, Warhol, and Rothko, all set off perfectly by that gritty industrial interior. It’s rare that any exhibition at Tate Modern is awaited with anything less than bated breath, whether they’re the paid shows across the mid-levels of the institution or the vast and clever commissions to take over the massive space that is the Turbine Hall. You’re pretty much bound to be blown away.

People walking in front of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre in London

The Globe Theater Arrow

In London, every building and street has history. And Shakespeare's Globe, although a reconstruction of the original Globe Theatre—where many of William Shakespeare's plays were first staged and which burned down in 1613 during a performance of 'Henry VIII'—is no exception. The theater was rebuilt not far from its original site, using construction methods and materials as close to the original as possible, and to watch a performance here is to step back in time with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

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All Our Stories flags by designer Bethany Williams in Coal Drops Yard King's Cross

Coal Drops Yard Arrow

Ever since the Eurostar undersea rail link between Paris and London rolled into Kings Cross St. Pancras station, the formerly down-and-out neighborhood of Kings Cross has experienced a total transformation. Abandoned railway land with disused gas tanks now has been turned into new offices, shopping areas, fountains, apartments, green spaces, and more. There are posh supermarkets in converted train sheds, the coveted Central St. Martins London School of Art and Fashion, artisan restaurants like Hicce, and trendy ice cream shops like Ruby Violet. Granary Square, north of the station and surrounded by restored warehouses, has a 1,000-jet fountain that's great for kids, as well as canal-side, amphitheater-style seating. There’s also the gorgeous revamped Camley Street Natural Park, which is packed with stunning wildflowers and urban biodiversity. Google is building their London headquarters here, an office complex that is supposed to be so state-of-the-art it will reinvent everything we know about workplaces. Add starchitect Thomas Heatherwick's stunningly designed Coal Drops Yard, former coal sheds that are now a super desirable luxury shopping and eating indoor and outdoor destination space, and you no doubt want to hang out at this development in what was once a dark and dusty neighborhood.

South Bank Arrow

The South Bank is one of the London’s best bits. Generally located between the Westminster and London bridges, it offers about two-miles of excellent, largely state-funded arts and entertainment venues alongside breezy, traffic-free views of a succession of city landmarks (Big Ben, St. Paul's, the Tower of London) that lie on the north bank. No wonder it attracts over 14 million people per year. If you have limited time in the capital, South Bank is great because it has everything, including a selection of good restaurants and street food offerings.

Victoria and Albert Museum Arrow

South Kensington’s V&A is one of the world’s largest art and design museums, and it's arguably London’s most glamorous. (Just the building itself is well worth the visit: a glorious red-brick palace filled with sculptural details, extravagant tiling, and frescos.) The collection is helpfully broken down into topics—fashion, theatre, furniture, architecture—and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit, and do check out the seasonal exhibition. The collection is helpfully broken down into topics such as fashion, jewelry, theater and performance, furniture, architecture, ceramics etc and all are comprehensive, usually spanning several hundred (if not thousand) years. Don’t expect to tackle more than one or two galleries per visit.

E Pellicci Arrow

Chances are there will be a queue for this beloved British ‘greasy spoon’ cafe. The Pellicci family has been feeding east Londoners since 1900 and still make some of the best fry ups in town. Stepping inside is like entering a time warp: there’s beautiful ornate art deco wooden paneling, stained glass windows, formica tables and a huge steaming tea urn. In fact, it’s such an icon that English heritage has awarded it grade-II listed status. It’s lively, chaotic, and always great fun. Whatever food you choose, always order a cup of strong "builder’s" tea. There’s coffee, milkshakes, beer, wine, and even limoncello on the menu but nothing goes better with a breakfast than a perfectly brewed cuppa.

Sir John Soane's Museum Arrow

This is, without a doubt, the city’s most atmospheric museum, packed to the rafters with hundreds of interesting and impressive artworks and artifacts. The collection is pretty much whatever took Sir John Soane's eye, positioned in the place it looked best—so don’t go looking for order. Instead, go curious, as the walls give way to secret rooms the unobservant might miss. It's not the unknown it once was though, so unless you go first thing in the morning you'll probably have to wait in line.

Columbia Road Flower Market Arrow

Weekly on Sundays, Columbia Road in East London's hip Shoreditch/Hackney neighborhood, transforms into a multicolored frenzy of stalls and flowers. This otherwise unassuming East End street is transformed into a swath of magnificent plant life, the air fragrant with blooms and the shouts of historic London's famous Cockney stallholders. It's as eccentric as it gets around here. You'll hear rushed deals and offers for a 'tenner' or 'fiver' (ten or five pounds) and because everything is so fresh, it's all gotta be gone by 2 p.m.

Dennis Severs' House Arrow

Fancy a trip back through time? Just around the corner from buzzy Spitalfields Market, there’s a beautiful old four story house in Spitalfields that is essentially a wonderful time warp. Eccentric American Dennis Severs bought the crumbling derelict building in 1979 and turned the whole thing into an amazing work of art, evocatively recreating the home life of different generations of a Huguenot family living from 1724 to 1919 (and living there himself at the same time!). Severs died in 1999 but the house is perfectly preserved and is one of the most incredible museums in London. This is quite a niche museum: one for history fans, interior enthusiasts and those into theatrical spaces, but truly anyone visiting will be instantly immersed into the bewitching experience. There’s only a small number of people allowed in at one time and everyone is respectfully tip-toeing around peering into chamber pots and studying the ghostly paintings.

Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason Arrow

This historic spot for afternoon tea has been an upper crust British favorite since it began importing leaves from Asia in 1707. It's no wonder the beloved tearoom was reopened in 2012 by the Queen after a sensitive refit. The room retains a fittingly regal affect, decorated in the store’s trademark eau de nil (take that, Tiffany). There’s often a pianist tinkling away in the corner of the airy elegant room in the afternoon. The tea itself will leave even the most discerning of tea snobs with their mouths open. There are 50 different blends and tea sommeliers to help you chose which one is for you.

An elevated view looking westwards of the London Skyline with St Paul's Cathedral at dusk

St. Paul's Cathedral Arrow

One of the most famous cathedrals in the world, St. Paul's (finished in 1708) is the masterpiece of architect Sir Christopher Wren, and its towering dome is probably second on the definitive list of symbols of London after Big Ben. It's awe-inspiring, magical yet somber and reflective, a place for prayer whether you're religious or not.

Gallery view of David Hockney The Arrival of Spring Normandy 2020

Royal Academy of Arts Arrow

The Royal Academy of Arts, or the R.A., as it's more fondly known, has been around for 250 years run by artists, and is home to an incredible collection of global art. The R.A.'s collection is vast, including sculpture, drawing, painting and architecture. There are numerous classic works on show as well as themed exhibitions from the collection, and varied and regular temporary shows that sell out quickly. Annually there is the annual Summer Exhibition featuring plenty of new work from up and coming R.A. students and alumni, and major icons in the art world; it's well worth seeing. You can come for a short visit and still get plenty out of the R.A.—the buildings themselves are worth checking out alone if you like seeing 19th-century and modern 21st-century architecture blended together.

Liberty London Arrow

This is truly one of the most beautiful shops in London. A Grade II-listed boutique department store with an iconic mock-tudor façade constructed from the timbers of two ships, it’s well worth a visit for the shop itself. Founded by Arthur Lasenby Liberty in 1875 who wanted an emporium to show off the treasures from his travels, today the wood-paneled light-filled atriums and cozy side rooms are stuffed full of goodies, new and old. It’s atmospheric, eclectic and unlike any other department store we’ve ever visited. A visit to the store must include a peruse of the impressive fabric department: the rolls and rolls of colorful, intricate and fabulous prints that will make you wish you’d paid more attention in home economics. If sewing isn’t your thing, you can get ready-made bags, cushions, bedding and even chess boards adorned with the delicate Liberty patterns.

The Shard Arrow

Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel , private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants—Aqua Shard, Hutong and Oblix. All good reasons to visit of course but arguably the main one is the viewing gallery aka The View. Located on floors 68-72 and 244 meters above London, you have an unobstructed 360-degree, 40-mile view across the city.

Adam ChanlerBerat in “Amlie A New Musical” at Center Theatre GroupAhmanson Theatre.

West End Theatreland Arrow

London's answer to New York's Broadway cuts across a swathe of the West End of the city in Covent Garden, Soho, and Picadilly. From Shakespeare to contemporary comedies and dramas like Hamilton, as well as countless famous musicals of old and many new, London's West End has it all. Who doesn't want to feel again the infectious glee of musical theatre choreography and the sweating happiness of curtain calls. With the shows coming back after a long closure due to coronavirus, the Criterion Theater is offering a wonderfully quirky musical version of Amelie—the popular French movie of the same name—for more affordable prices than the big-name shows.

National Gallery Arrow

Set in London’s busiest open space, Trafalgar Square, this is the grandmother of galleries with more than 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to the 19th centuries: Heavyweights include Van Gogh’s Sunflowers, Velazquez's Rokeby Venus, and Constable’s six-foot long The Hay Wain . It gets packed at weekends, but its so large that you can usually find a quiet corner. You can download an audio tour covering the museum's highlights, but you can also curate your own by selecting the paintings you want to see before you arrive. The seasonal exhibitions are the only ones you’ll pay for, and as you'd expect, most are spectacular ranging from Lucian Freud to Titian.

Borough Market Arrow

The food hound's favorite London market (and the city's most atmospheric) occupies a sprawling site near London Bridge, both in a large covered area and spreading into the smaller maze of streets that surround it. Records show there’s been a market here since 1276 when it apparently caused traffic jams on London Bridge. What’s on offer? Gourmet goodies run the gamut and you’d be hard pressed not to find something you can’t get enough of and simply spend all day stuffing your face.

Highgate Cemetery Arrow

A graveyard is always a somber place, but Highgate is also a celebratory one. You’ll recognize parts of it if you’ve seen Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘Dracula,’ and you'll find the final resting place of writers like George Eliot and Douglas Adams, science pioneers like Michael Faraday and pop culture icons like George Michael (although his grave isn't named as such; his Panayiotou family plot is in the West Cemetery next to Lucien Freud). And believe it or not, for somewhere with so many legendary men and women buried in it, Highgate Cemetery is one of the least visited of London’s landmarks. But those who come do it for both the ghostly mystery of the place itself, as well as the celebrity dead.

British Museum Arrow

You could spend several lifetimes in the British Museum, Britain’s largest museum, without running out of artifacts to ponder. The collection is one of the largest in the world, arranged by location (Ancient Egypt, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Greece and Rome), and the list of big hitters includes the Rosetta Stone and other finds from Ancient Egypt, Asia and the Middle East. Come early on a weekday for a less crowded experience, pick one gallery and stick to it, or go for a guided “eye-opener” tour.

Views of Kenwood House at Hampstead Heath

Hampstead Heath Arrow

Forget the perfect lawns of London's Royal Parks, Hampstead Heath, the vast and, in places wonderfully overgrown, tract of countryside just north of the rock ‘n’ roll neighborhood of Camden Town is the wild heart of the city and an undisputed highlight, so much so it's said to have inspired CS Lewis’s Narnia. The Heath covers 791 acres of woodland, playing fields, swimming ponds and meadows of tall grass perfect both for picnickers and couples in search of privacy. It’s truly beautiful.

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Portobello Market Arrow

Running through the center of the ever-fashionable Notting Hill neighborhood in West London, Portobello Road is know for everything from sixties models, photographers, artists and rockstars to rows of antiques stalls, hip pubs and Hugh Grant, but what we’re talking about is Portobello Market when the street is closed off Friday to Sunday and packed with people from far and wide. It’s that famous. Portobello is actually several markets rolled into one: There are antique and bric-a-brac shops, loads of food stalls and further up next to the Portebello Green arcade, emerging designers and vintage clothing shops.

The Serpentine Bridge connecting Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

Hyde Park Arrow

Hyde Park is big. At one and a half miles long and a mile or so wide, it's one of London's largest Royal Parks, originally appropriated from the monks at Westminster Abbey by Henry VIII to hunt deer, but now the sort of space where anything goes. Think gangs of roller-bladers on the paths, mad swimmers and chill boaters in the Serpentine Lake, rowdy protestors at Speaker’s Corner and kids aplenty riding horses and tipping their toes into the Diana Memorial Fountain.

Tayyabs Arrow

Most nights you’ll be waiting for at least half an hour before entering this famous, BYOB Punjabi diner in Whitechapel. Tayyabs is loud (and no one’s on a romantic date) but what you’re there for are the sizzling plates of meat. The main attraction is the lamb chops, served up spicy and marinated in a kadai masala with coriander, sliced onions, and chillies, and everything must be paired with freshly baked rotis, parathas, and naans. It’s a great spot for meat eaters and large groups looking for an affordable way to dine on exceptional Punjabi food.

General View of Churchill's Bedroom at Churchill War Rooms.

Churchill War Rooms Arrow

This underground lair, just around the corner from 10 Downing Street, is where Churchill spent endless hours plotting Allied victory during the Second World War. Come for the Map Room, which looks exactly as it did when the members of the War Cabinet abandoned it at the end of the war, and the Transatlantic Telephone Room, where Churchill had secret conversations with U.S. officials. Entry is currently timed so you won't be crowded, and there are some pandemic restrictions still in place in terms of social distancing, but it's easy to get around and see everything. The audio guide comes with your ticket and provides an extra insight into the operations that went on during the war, including sounds and speeches of the time. The museum is also fully wheelchair accessible.

The neon light facade at London jazz institution Ronnie Scott's

Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club Arrow

Nightlife institutions are institutions for a reason. And Ronnie Scott's, Soho’s premier jazz venue on Frith Street, never, ever disappoints. One rule: book your ticket in advance. Ronnie's is a concert venue, generally hosts two sittings a night—everyone from Nina Simone to Pharaoh Sanders has played here—and gigs get booked out quickly by tourists, aficionados and fellow musicians. You can, however, usually get into Ronnie’s Bar, a smaller more dance oriented venue upstairs, without advance notice, as well as into the 'late late' shows. The place itself is everything a jazz venue should be: dark, loud and enticing, romantic even, and so very Soho—you’ll probably feel like drinking whisky but Champagne always goes down better. When the music ends, and you fall out buzzing into the street, finish up with a bite at the legendary late-night favorite Bar Italia across the road. It’s just what's done.

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One Week in London: Itinerary

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The Best Fish & Chips in London

London's Top Restaurants

Eating With Kids in London

London's Best Bars

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Weather & Climate

London's Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

Driving in London

Public Transport in London

London's Top Attractions

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

London's Best Parks

Museums in London

Theater in London

Live Music in London

Shopping in London

Shopping in London: The Complete Guide

As one of the world’s fashion capitals, London is full of style for all price points and categories. On one end of the spectrum, London has a strong tradition of classic tailors and high-end ateliers, which can still be experienced today, alongside up-and-coming indie labels full of youthful spirit. And it’s not all small stores: Just about every big luxury, mid-range, and discount consumer brand (including fashion, home, and electronics) have an outpost—if not a flagship store—here. Whatever you’re on the hunt for, chances are that you can buy it in London.

Oxford Street

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

Oxford Street is London’s most famous, and often busiest, shopping drag, featuring massive flagship stores for British and international fashion chains like UNIQLO, Next, Adidas, H&M, Primark, and Zara. In addition to the big and impressive stores by just about every major fashion, home, beauty, and tech label, Oxford Street is home to several key department stores including John Lewis, Debenhams, and the Marks and Spencer flagship store. You can also find the famous and historic Selfridges department store, which takes up an entire block.

Regent Street

Alexander Spatari

Veering off Oxford Street, you’ll find another shopping mecca on Regent Street . Expect more major brands on the grand, bending Regent Street, though in general Regent Street shops tend to be slightly more upscale. (For example, Regent Street is the home of Burberry, Barbour, Calvin Klein, Coach, Mulberry, and Apple.) You can also find Liberty London , a luxury department store housed in a charming Tudor revival building; the main entrance is off Regent Street and on Great Marlborough Street. In addition to selling women's, men's and children's fashion, Liberty is also known for its luxurious collection of cosmetics and fragrances.

Bond Street

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Also located off Oxford Street, you’ll find the affluent Bond Street thoroughfare, which is divided into New Bond Street (the northern part of the street) and Old Bond Street (the southern part of the street). Considered London’s premier shopping street, Bond Street stores house priceless jewelers, haute couture labels, one-off ateliers, and art and antiquities dealers. Here you’ll find Tiffany and Co., Fendi, Fabergé, and Hermès, as well as Fenwick, a high-end British department store, and the famous Sotheby's auction house. There are also several arcades running off Bond Street, such as The Royal Arcade and The Burlington Arcade , which are narrow covered corridors lined with more exclusive shops.

Carnaby Street

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Located in the heart of London’s West End (near Oxford Street), Carnaby Street is a tucked-away, pretty street packed with a mix of big names (like Levi’s and The North Face) and independent shops (like bespoke tailor Mark Powell and indie fashion label The Ragged Priest). There’s also a good collection of restaurants and bars. Also considered part of Carnaby Street is Kingly Court, a three-level outdoor food hub, and the charming Newburgh Quarter, which showcases plenty of independent boutiques.

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Calling all mallrats: Stratford, in the northeast of London, was revamped for the 2012 Olympic games and is now the home to the sprawling mega-mall, Westfield Stratford City . It’s one of the largest urban shopping centers in all of Europe, and it has about 280 stores and 70 restaurants. There are plenty of big names here like the Disney Store, Gap, and Ikea. Most brands fall into the mid-level price range. Westfield also offers personal shopping experiences and there are few hotels in the Westfield Stratford complex as well, including Holiday Inn, Premier Inn, and Staybridge Suites.

Covent Garden

Packed with excitement — and hoards of tourists — Covent Garden is a picturesque shopping area in the heart of London. Shops here are a good blend of big luxe labels like Tom Ford and Diptyque and small gems like Petersham Nurseries, Miller Harris , and Benjamin Pollock’s Toy Shop. The pretty, green-and-glass covered Covent Garden’s Apple Market houses well-known brands alongside small stalls selling handmade items like cakes and soaps. Also, don’t miss Neal's Yard, a tucked-away, brightly colored little courtyard in Covent Garden filled with cult favorites like the Neal’s Yard Remedies Store and Neal’s Yard Dairy.

King’s Road

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

King’s Road is a trendy stretch of stores that extends through Fulham and Chelsea. You’ll find smaller stores than those on Oxford Street and the like. Most shops on this road are considered stylish and smart (like Reiss and Jigsaw). This street was once home to many young fashion labels and became associated with the punk scene. You can still visit the original Vivienne Westwood boutique, Worlds End, at 430 King's Road. There are also plenty of buzzy eateries on this street.

Knightsbridge

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Knightsbridge is one of London’s most expensive neighborhoods and it has the stores to match—including London’s most famous department store Harrods. Here you’ll find only the most exclusive stores often tooting international appeal like Gucci, Lulu Guinness, and Christian Louboutin. Possibly one the most recognized store in the world, Harrods is always packed, and you can find everything from fashion to food inside. Harvey Nichols is another iconic department store with cult status and a high-fashion pedigree.

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For traditional bespoke men suits, one must head to Savile Row in affluent Mayfair. Tailors have been toiling away on Savile Road since the late 18th century and you can still find many of the same shops there today, such as Henry Poole, who was credited with coming up with the tuxedo. The term "bespoke" is thought to have originated on Savile Row, though nowadays, you can find a few ready-to-wear suit shops too.

Jermyn Street

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The aristocratic and sartorial Jermyn Street is also known for its shops peddling high-end men’s clothing and accessories. Home to some of London’s most prestigious tailors, shirt makers, and cobblers, here you’ll find beautiful and historic stores like Turnbull & Asser menswear and Crockett & Jones shoes. Also on Jermyn Street, there’s an entrance to the simply majestic Fortnum & Mason department store, which dates back to 1707 and is still packed with the most fabulous and elegant confections and fine wines.

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16 Best Things to Buy in London — London Souvenirs and Items That Will Make You Hoard!

Looking for the best things to buy in London?

There is something in London for everyone’s shopping needs, whether it be something for yourself or a present for a friend, colleague, or member of the family. In the diverse and vibrant English capital, there are plenty of options when it comes to shopping for unique and memorable London souvenirs.

So, what are the best things to buy in London?

I have compiled some of the must-buys when in the English capital — from the uniquely London souvenirs to fan merch and some quality items that should fill your luggage in no time. Mind not to hoard, though!

What you'll find

Best things to buy in London

Here’s my handpicked list of what to buy in London that will make great gifts for family and friends back home or souvenirs to remember your London trip by.

1. English tea

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Whether it’s Twinnings or Taylors of Harrogate, Londoners and tourists alike can’t get enough of tea. English tea is one of the things to buy in London to take home since it’s a breeze to pack in your suitcase for your return trip.

You can find a variety of teas by visiting a specialty tea shop like Whittards or a supermarket like Tesco or Waitrose.

English breakfast tea isn’t the only option, of course. You can experiment with a variety of flavors, including rosé, mixed berries, hazelnut, and chocolate teas.

2. English teapot

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What could be more charming than a cute English teapot to bring your mother, sister, or best friend from your London vacation?

You can buy one pretty much anywhere that sells tableware — from china shops to department stores like Harrods where they sell designer tea sets for a small fortune. But as a starting point, head to John Lewis on Oxford Street.

A genuine English teapot is one of the best things to buy in London, so mind to check that the teapot is actually made in England. Antique shops are a good source of genuine English tea pots and other china items.

3. British chocolates from Charbonnel et Walker

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Charbonnel et Walker, the first premium chocolate maker in the United Kingdom, was founded in 1875. It even holds a Royal Warrant for Her Majesty the Queen as a chocolatier.

To top it all off, Marc de Champagne’s chocolates are wonderful London presents for friends and family back home, especially the Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles.

One of the best places to buy this chocolate in London is the renowned shop in the Royal Arcade in Mayfair.

4. Harrods Coffee in an exclusive tin

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Harrods Emporium has created a fine grind Blend 49 coffee in a historic gold and green container to commemorate its 150 years in business.

As you would expect from a high-end grocery store, the coffee is crafted from only the finest pure Arabica beans to provide a flavorful cup with a nutty aftertaste. Cafetières and percolators will appreciate this pretty 250g. bag of coffee.

The Harrods Food Hall’s Heritage collection tin is one of many popular food and beverage presents. The dark green graphic on the tin depicts the Harrods building. On its front is the slogan “Purveyors of Fine Coffee since 1849.”

With your order, you’ll receive the sought-after Harrods carrier bag, as well as a tin of coffee that is both beautiful and high-quality. This is definitely among the best things to buy in London!

5. A hat from Lock & Co.

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How about an elegant hat to update your wardrobe? When in London, get it from Lock & Co., the oldest hat shop in the world.

Surrounded by a rich history, the shop manager is supposed to have inspired Lewis Carroll to create the renowned Mad Hatter persona from Alice in Wonderland .

Lock & Co. sells a fashionable beret if you’re going to Paris following London.

A canvas bag or lock keyring is also an excellent London keepsake from the shop if you’re on a budget.

6. A James Smith & Sons umbrella

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Since 1830, James Smith & Sons has been selling umbrellas near the Tottenham Court Road and Holborn underground stations in a historic Victorian shop.

Carrying a classic London umbrella is the best way to stay dry during inclement weather. These long-lasting umbrellas are still made using traditional processes. The showroom and the umbrella manufacturer are even located in the same building.

The Pencil Umbrella with Cat Handle is a great buy if you love cats , or the London Umbrella with Lion Handle if you like a more edgy style. The one Pencil Umbrella with Fox Handle is cute as well.

These cute and useful umbrellas are a must-buy in London. Take it wherever you go during your stay in the English capital, then buy more to bring home to your friends and family. They will also love these charming London souvenirs!

7. Savile Row’s bespoke suits

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Savile Row tailors in Mayfair’s Savile Row are one of the most iconic London keepsakes for men who wish to buy formal wear.

In the words of British GQ, this is “the world’s most famous suiting street.”

Even though they’re expensive, these are the best London souvenirs as Savile Row suits are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and will always bring back memories of your time in London.

8. Burberry trench coat

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For women who want to look fashionable even when it’s raining or snowing, a Burberry trench coat is the perfect thing to bring back from London as a souvenir.

This timeless article of apparel is the ideal thing for you to pick up at their shop on Regent Street if you are looking for fabulous things to buy in London.

9. Penhaligons perfumes and colognes

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The Penhaligons gift packages are simply irresistible.

This classic London perfume brand is ideal for people who like to travel with only their carry-on belongings or who are planning a short trip throughout Europe.

There are several Penhaligons boutiques around London. If you don’t have time to visit one of their stores, you can purchase their fragrances online. If you want to experiment with different scents, buy some of their travel-sized perfumes and colognes.

10. Bespoke scents from Miller Harris’ perfume

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Miller Harris makes a line of niche perfumes that you might enjoy. Perfumer Lyn Harris launched this London-based couture perfume brand in 2000.

This small British fragrance company makes exquisite natural scents inspired by stories. For a scent that will remind you of your time in London, head to their stores in Covent Garden and Seven Dials.

11. London souvenirs from Stanfords

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Stanfords is the world’s largest map and travel book shop, located in Covent Garden, London.

For nearly two centuries, it has been a favorite of explorers and adventurers. There is a wide variety of books, maps, and other items for sale that will make good souvenirs of your London trip.

Some of the best London souvenirs you can get here include their London map-printed cushion covers, travel bags, and the very popular Money Box with the signature retro map print.

12. Harry Potter Shop souvenirs

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If you’re a Harry Potter fan like me, don’t forget to pick up some keepsakes at Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross station’s Harry Potter Shop.

Hogwarts sweatshirts, owl-themed mugs, and owl-themed pencils are just some of the items you’ll find at this shop. Make sure to snap a picture with the shop’s famed disappearing luggage trolley while you’re there.

Also check out the Harry Potter filming locations in London if you haven’t yet!

13. Print from the National Gallery

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Want art but can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars on a trip to an art auction? Art prints are available for purchase at the gift store of the National Gallery, one of London’s best art museums.

Prints are among the best things to buy in London since you may put them in your suitcase without fear of them getting damaged because they come with a protective plastic wrap around them.

Postcard-sized prints are also available if you need something smaller to send back home or put in a smaller area.

14. Books from one of the famous bookstores

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More than 100 independent book shops and several corporate stores can be found in London, making it a mecca for bibliophiles. A book from one of London’s best-known bookshops is a wonderful gift for the bookworms in your life.

Hatchards, London’s oldest bookshop, has a wide selection of books. With three Royal Warrants, their Picadilly flagship store has been in business since 1797. There is also a new small outlet in St. Pancras International Station.

With several locations, Daunt Books is another excellent bookshop. In their original Marylebone location, which is stunning in every way, they include a huge travel section with foreign and local guides as well as fiction novels to browse.

When you buy a book from one of the many local independent book stores, you’ll almost always get a complimentary lovely bookmark. These are the best London souvenirs you can give the bookworms in your life when you get back home from your vacation.

15. A House of Commons notebook

Definitely one of the best London souvenirs, a House of Commons notebook can be bought from the Houses of Parliament Shop located directly across from Big Ben and just around the corner from the Westminster tube station. It sells a variety of branded gifts that bear the stamp of the United Kingdom government.

Even though they have an online store, we believe that purchasing something from them in person provides a higher level of authenticity than doing it online. You can anticipate being able to purchase a wide variety of branded goods, ranging from packs of playing cards to apparel.

16. Quality stationery

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One of the lovely things to buy in London are quality stationery. You’re in luck if you’re shopping for a notebook enthusiast! Some of the top stationery stores in the world may be found in the English capital.

It’s impossible to find a better spot in London to purchase notebooks than Choosing Keeping in Seven Dials. With a vast variety of bindings, materials, and paper kinds, their handpicked stock is of the utmost quality.

Additionally, they have a wonderful collection of fountain pens, inks, greeting cards, and watercolors on hand, which will make such nice London souvenirs to bring home to.

You may also check out Present & Correct for more writing and drawing supplies. Here you can find everything from washi paper to bullet journals.

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8 Best Places To Shop In London – The Ultimate Shopping Paradise For Tourists

This is a list of 8 best places to shop in London for tourists! This vibrant city is the ultimate shopping paradise, boasting a myriad of luxury boutiques, trendy retail shops, huge department stores, and bustling street markets. The wife had a wonderful shopping experience here during our holiday.

Summary Of Best Places To Shop In London

Bond Street: The best for high end shopping. This shopping street is the mecca for luxury brands.
Oxford Street: The best for mid-market brands. Famous shops here include Selfridges, Primark, TK Maxx, Topshop, H&M, and Uniqlo.
Regent Street: The most beautiful shopping destination. It is home to many mid-market brands and luxury boutiques like Canada Goose, H&M, Furla, and Tory Burch.
Bicester Village: The best for discount luxury goods. Enjoy fantastic discounts off usual retail prices, especially for British brands.
Knightsbridge: The best for luxury department stores. This neighbourhood is home to Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Sloane Street, Topshop, and Tommy Hilfiger.
Covent Garden: The best for tourists. This popular tourist destination is home to various luxury boutiques and a bustling street market.
Camden Market: The best for boho chic fashion. This is the place to shop for vintage goods and handcrafted jewellery.
Portobello Road Market: The best for antiques and collectibles. This outdoor market is home to many antique dealers and retro shops.

1. Bond Street

Bond Street is actually made up of two connected streets: “New Bond Street” and “Old Bond Street”.

The wife and I started shopping at New Bond Street and made our way down towards Old Bond Street.

This classy department store specialises in unique gifts like confectioneries, premium teas and coffees, perfumes, hampers, and more.

Famous brands in Bond Street: Burberry, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Hermes, Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, Prada Ralph Lauren, Tiffany & Co, etc. Directions: Google Maps

2. Oxford Street

I was greeted by Gilbert Bayes’ winged polychrome statue, “Queen of Time” , as I entered the shopping complex. Above her are the twin dials of the Selfridges Clock.

I also came across sunglasses and shoes going for just £3.

Overall, this store is worth visiting to look for hidden gems selling at great prices!

This mega outlet boasts the largest selection of shoes, handbags, and jewellery across all its UK stores.

Famous Brands & Stores in Oxford Street: Selfridges, Primark, TK Maxx, Pull & Bear, Adidas, Gap, Bershka, Topshop, H&M, Uniqlo, Foot Locker, Zara, etc. Directions: Google Maps

3. Regent Street

It is home to a number of popular mid-market and luxury brands like H&M, Canada Goose, Molton Brown, Ted Baker, Longchamp, Furla, and Tory Burch.

The wife spent some time in the Molton Brown shop browsing through their fragrance and body care products. The staff here was really friendly and helpful.

Famous brands & stores in Regent Street: Liberty, The Apple Store, H&M, Canada Goose, Molton Brown, Ted Baker, Longchamp, Furla, Tory Burch, Desigual. Directions: Google Maps

4. Bicester Village

Some of the brands here include Coach, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Burberry, Ferragamo, Michael Kors, Celine, and many more. Check out the full list of brands on their official website .

The wife really enjoyed shopping here because many of the luxury products were much cheaper than retail stores in London.

Based on our experience, the best discounts here are on British luxury brands . There are good deals for non-British luxury brands too, but the discounts are definitely not as attractive.

Other British brands with great discounts include Burberry, Ted Baker, Clarks, Paul Smith and Mulberry.

Remember to bring along your passport to enjoy tax refunds!

Famous Brands in Bicester Village: Coach, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Burberry, Ferragamo, Michael Kors, Celine, etc. Directions: How To Go Bicester Village From London

5. Knightsbridge

The most famous shopping destination here is the luxury department store Harrods .

I also came across sport stores like Nike and Adidas.

Other well-known shopping spots in Knightsbridge include Harvey Nichols (British luxury department store), Sloane Street (high end shopping street), Topshop at Brompton Road, and Tommy Hilfiger’s Europe flagship store .

If you want to pamper yourself, you can consider booking Klook’s afternoon tea at Harrods experience , which includes a cruise on the River Thames and a vintage bus tour.

Famous brands & stores in Knightsbridge: Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Sloane Street, Topshop, Tommy Hilfiger. Directions: Google Maps

6. Covent Garden

The wife spent some time shopping at shops like Chanel, MAC, Michael Kors, Molton Brown, and Kate Spade.

Famous brands in Covent Garden: Chanel, Burberry, Kate Spade, MAC, Michael Kors, Molton Brown, Mulberry, Zara. Directions: Google Maps

7. Camden Market

Directions: Google Maps

8. Portobello Road Market (Notting Hill)

Other than antiques, there are also many shops selling street food, clothes, flowers, and local produce.

The market is open every day, but the main market day is Saturday when you will see a tidy sprawl of antique stalls, street performers and street vendors.

Unfortunately, I visited on Sunday so most of the market was closed. Luckily, there were still some shops and stalls that were open.

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10 lovely independent bookshops in London – that deliver

By Monisha Rajesh

Brilliant independent bookshops in London that deliver

1. West End Lane Books

As friendly and familiar as the local pub, West End Lane Books is a real neighbourhood favourite. With its worn floorboards and selection of classics and crime, contemporary and kids’ books, this is a place with as much heart as history. Driven out of Libya by the Gaddafi regime, publisher Mohammed Fergiani opened the store in 1994 before launching its sister shop – Queen’s Park Books – in 2004, and both are still run by his son Ghassan. Around a quarter of stock is for children, with the back corner dedicated to younger readers, and in addition to books the shop sells beautiful gift wrap, tarot cards and notelets, normally under the watchful eyes of the two resident goldfish, Canongate and Faber. West End Lane Books are now posting out books.

Address: West End Lane Bookshop, 277 West End Lane, London NW6 1QS Telephone: +44 20 7431 3770 Website: welbooks.co.uk Twitter: @WELBooks

The Second Shelf

Snuggled into a corner of Smith’s Court in Soho and fronted by a little red door, The Second Shelf is a shrine to women writers and the rare-book trade. Pink-floored and wallpapered with marbled paper normally used for the end pages of books, the shop was opened in November 2018 by writer AN Devers. Stocking everything from vintage paperbacks at £6 apiece to a proof of Toni Morrison’s Beloved and even a £15,000 paper belonging to Marie Curie that contained her own edits, the Second Shelf is ideal for special gifts or to simply spoil yourself with a fabulous first edition. While the shop is temporarily closed, you can buy gift certificates online for future use and to help keep the shop afloat.

Address: The Second Shelf, 14 Smith’s Court, London W1D 7DW Telephone: +44 20 3490 2800 Website: thesecondshelf.com Twitter: @secondshelfbks

Burley Fisher Books

Focusing on small press and mini press books, Burley Fisher is the ultimate community bookshop hosting regular events and launches. Under normal circumstances you can pull up a chair in its cosy little café or get a drink at the bar while thumbing through its thoughtful collection of books, as well as personal and political essays and auto-fiction. Striving to deliver by bike, the dedicated staff suggest books based on your recent reads, and have just launched Isolation Station , a podcast that features writers currently releasing new books. While the shop is temporarily closed, the team are still on social media offering recommendations and posting out any books they have in stock.

Address: Burley Fisher Books, 400 Kingsland Road, London E8 4AA Telephone: +44 20 7249 2263 Website: burleyfisherbooks.com Twitter: @burleyfisher

Round Table Books

What started as a pop-up store for diversity-focused children’s books became a permanent fixture in Brixton in May 2019 after a successful crowdfunding campaign by local residents and parents whose kids were thrilled to see themselves represented for the first time in fairy tales and comics. Fitted with bright-red shelves and lit by an array of lightbulbs, the space radiates with a technicolour joy bouncing off smooth, shiny hardbacks. The shop’s ethos centres on championing books with BAME, neurodiverse, LGBTQ+ and disabled protagonists, and stocks writers including Annabelle Sami, Kwame Alexander, Jason Reynolds and Samantha Baines. While the shop is temporarily closed, you can email or contact India and Layla on social media and they can arrange for books to be delivered directly from stockists.

Address: Round Table Books, 97 Granville Arcade, Coldharbour Lane, London SW9 8PS Website: roundtablebooks.co.uk Twitter: @booksround

Persephone Books

Two flower boxes guard the entrance to Persephone Books, a demure frontage that belies the force of the literature within. Owner Nicola Beauman had the idea to reprint a handful of fiction and non-fiction titles by mid-20th-century women writers who were overlooked in their time, and her catalogue has now grown to include 135 books. Wrapped in identical grey jackets, they’re arranged alongside vases of bright fresh flowers. Priced at £13 each or £33 for three, the books contain individual endpapers bursting with colour, usually made from a textile relating to the year of publication. While the shop is temporarily closed, Beauman’s daughter Fran will read segments from the books every day at 11am on Instagram Live. Tune in to watch Elevenses with Fran ( @fransbookshop ).

Address: Persephone Books, 59 Lamb’s Conduit Street, London WC1N 3NB Telephone: +44 20 7242 9292 Website: persephonebooks.co.uk Twitter: @PersephoneBooks

Gay’s the Word

Since opening in 1979, Gay’s the Word has been a pillar of the LGBTQ+ community, selling comics, graphic novels, poetry, history titles and memoirs along with usual staples such as DVDs, flags, humorous postcards and badges. The UK ’s first gay bookshop, and now the only surviving one, it stocks everything, ‘from the profound to the frivolous, from the liberating to the indulgent’, and has regular discussion groups, readings and signings from writers including Sarah Waters and Armistead Maupin. It’s a safe space for open conversation and staff are always willing to lend an ear to anyone who steps through the door. While the shop is temporarily shut, Jim, Uli and Erica will do their best to fulfil mail-order queries ([email protected]), and every weekday morning Erica will be reading the work of an LGBTQ+ poet on Instagram Live ( @gaysthewordbookshop ).

Address: Gay's the Word, 66 Marchmont Street, London WC1N 1AB Telephone: +44 20 7242 9292 Website: gaystheword.co.uk Twitter: @gaystheword

From the moment you step through the door it feels warm, spot-lit by desk lamps clipped to shelves and turned to face walls. A barrisol ceiling reflects the curves of the bookshelves that hug the edges, giving the appearance of infinite spines and pages. Opened in conjunction with workspace company Second Home, Libreria emphasises design and innovation, and a move away from the distractions of technology. There is no Wi-Fi in the shop and customers are politely requested not to use phones, encouraged instead to browse categories that include ‘bad feminist’, ‘enchantment for disenchanted’ and ‘utopia’ to discover books you might not otherwise read. While the shop is temporarily closed, sign up to The Libreria Podcast and Second Home’s free online programme which includes podcasts and an isolation book club.

Address: Libreria, 65 Hanbury Street, London E1 5JP Website: [ libreria.io ](http://thesecondshelf.com/) Twitter: @LibreriaLondon

Kirkdale Bookshop

Sydenham wouldn’t be the same without Kirkdale Bookshop, a neighbourhood stalwart that opened in 1966. Selling both new and pre-loved titles, it has all the charm expected from a local bookshop, from the window display that changes every two weeks to mark significant events to the yellow ducks tacked to the desk by the till. It’s easy to miss the basement that’s filled with second-hand books and classics, plus there are tempting knick-knacks for sale such as vintage Penguin mugs, tinned candles, soaps and hand creams. While the shop is temporarily closed, keep in touch or ask for recommendations via email and social media.

Address: Kirkdale Bookshop, 272 Kirkdale, London SE26 4RS Telephone: +44 20 8778 4701 Website: kirkdalebookshop.com Twitter: @KirkdaleBooks

If ever there was a time to long after travel books, it’s now. And there’s no better place to head to than Stanfords in Covent Garden. Established in 1853, it has inched its way around London , coming to rest most recently on Mercer Walk. It’s a haven of maps, guides and travelogues – including contemporary fiction and children’s books. For those on the hunt for a present, there are stacks of diaries, journals and calendars as well as board games and antique globes. While the shop is temporarily closed, contact them on Twitter for book recommendations on specific locations and order online for home delivery.

Address: Stanfords, 7 Mercer Walk, London WC2H 9FA Telephone: +44 20 7836 1321 Website: stanfords.co.uk Twitter: @StanfordsTravel

Newham Bookshop

Beneath faded yellow awning, this busy East London delight – named by Bernardine Evaristo as a favourite – is technically two shops, with an adults’ side and a dedicated children’s side linked at the back. It was set up 42 years ago by a group of parents who felt that Newham should have a bookshop. Free from airs and graces, with books in delicious disarray, this spot is usually a treat for browsers picking their way around piles on the floor or flicking through pages beneath the jungle-themed bunting. While it is temporarily closed they can not post anything they do not currently have in stock, but readers can call between 9am and 10.30am to order books that can be posted or delivered locally by bike. Email ([email protected]) for requests to check stock.

Address: Newham Bookshop, 743-745 Barking Road, London E13 9ER Website: newhambooks.co.uk Twitter: @newhambookshop

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The Ultimate London Shopping Guide

The best places to shop in london.

For many visitors to London, a shopping expedition is an absolute must! London is, after all, THE shopping destination par excellence. There’s no better place than this metropolis for keeping up with the latest fashion trends! And it’s no coincidence that London hosts the Fashion Week twice a year. Little wonder this stylish city has been inspiring fashion heavyweights of the likes of Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen forever.

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There are thousands of places to shop in London. The choice is immense whatever your gender, age, or budget! For a few ideas on where to go, see our London Shopping Guide featuring the best stores and markets the city has to offer.

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Shopping in London

Given the countless shopping options available in London, it’s sometimes hard to know where to start. Below we explain what we consider the key to the perfect London shopping experience. Our London shopping tips include the best shopping districts, stores, and markets.

Popular London shopping districts

It goes without saying that there are lots of places to shop in London. We’ve compiled a list of the most important ones that should definitely be included in your “To Do” list.

The first thing you need to know is that most of the major London fashion stores are concentrated within a small radius , which means you can easily dedicate a whole day to shop hopping in London. However, there are two shopping tips that could make choosing the right stores a little easier for you:

If you’re in search of something a bit different, you should head for Shoreditch, Brick Lane, and Spitalfields Market in the East End, where you’ll find lots of alternative stores, vintage markets, and second-hand shops. If you want to see the famous Harrods department store, on the other hand, Mayfair is the place to go. Harrods is on Knightsbridge, to the south of Hyde Park.

Our Top 12 things to do in London

Our favorite markets in London

I love traveling in Europe and I am passionate about writing about my travels. The cultural peculiarities of each region always fascinate me. I enjoy exploring and discovering the best-kept secrets of each town or village. I love road trips as much as city breaks; I love visiting an art gallery and also the magic of musicals or discovering new delicacies in a street market. In this blog, I write about all my travel adventures and my best tips and tricks! Auf Loving Travel schreibe ich über alle meine Reiseerlebnisse und gebe euch meine besten Tipps und Tricks!

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15 best bookshops in london [by a local bookworm].

If you are a book lover in London (like me), then you really are spoilt for choice!

There’s such a huge variety of bookshops in the city and you can find them pretty much on every street, the city is absolutely full of them!

Whether you are looking for cosy, modern, second-hand books, new releases or first editions, there will be a bookstore for you.

I am a huge bookworm.

I love escaping the chaos of this crazy (yet wonderful) city every now and then to spend a few hours browsing for a good new book.

Plus, it’s one of the best things to do in London during Winter & it’s too cold to head outside!

Since I have tried and tested most of the bookshops in central London now, I have narrowed down my 15 best bookshops in London that you absolutely must visit!

Let’s get straight into it …

Travellerspoint

London’s best bookshops

1. foyles ‍.

‍ Location: Charing Cross road ‍

Opening times: Monday-Saturday 9am until 9pm and 11:30 until 6pm on Sundays

I couldn't make this list without mentioning what is probably London’s most famous bookshop, Foyles , specifically the one on Charing Cross road.

This bookstore is absolutely huge, stretching over five floors and housing pretty much every book you can think of, and plenty you will have never heard of!

While it's not the cosiest on this list, if you are after a particular book or want to take some time to browse for a while, Foyles is a great place to start.

Not only does Foyles house the largest collection of books in the UK with a whopping 200,000, but it is also a great place to pick up games, puzzles and other souvenirs.

Be sure to head to the 5th level to check out their cafe if you need a caffeine fix to finish all your browsing!

2. Brick Lane Bookshop

Location: Brick Lane

Opening times: Open every day from 10am until 6pm

I can never visit Brick Lane without popping into Brick Lane Bookshop .

As it opened in the 1970’s, it was actually the first ever bookshop in Tower Hamlets and was created after a protest for more art projects in the borough.

It is quite a small independent bookshop but if you can't find what you are looking for, they are more than happy to order you a specific book in, usually ready to collect the very next day!

If you do visit, be sure to pick up their very own short stories book and a tote bag as a souvenir!

3. Walden Books

Location: Camden

Opening times: Only open Thursday through until Sunday 10:30am until 6:30pm

When I think of a cosy independent bookshop in London , Walden Books is always the one that springs to mind for me.

It is tucked away on a side street, just around the corner from one of the best food markets in London , Camden Market, you would have to know it's there to find it!

Books on display outside of Walden Books

If you are looking for the newest releases, you won't find them at Walden Books as they purely buy and sell second-hand books specialising in rare and unique literature and visual arts.

Scramble through the huge piles of books outside in great condition and you can find some incredible books for as little as 50p! Or why not take a peek at their rare book collections inside if you are looking to invest in a different type of book?

If you visit in the warmer months, the whole front of the store is covered in beautiful lilac-coloured wisteria and other blooming flowers.

4. Alice Through The Looking Glass

Alice Through The Looking Glass Bookshop in London

Location: Cecil Court

Opening times: Monday to Friday 11am until 5:30pm, Saturdays 11am until 6pm and closed on Sundays.

Nestled away in one of my all time favourite streets in London, is the incredible Alice Through the Looking Glass shop.

As you can probably tell by the name, the whole shop is dedicated to all things Lewis Carol and Alice in Wonderland.

It's a tiny little shop but is absolutely filled to the brim with memorabilia, clothing, stationary, artwork and first edition books, it's pretty much an Alice in Wonderland book museum !

If you do decide to visit (which you definitely should) don't forget to say hello to Harley, their resident white rabbit!

5. Hurlingham Books

Location: Fulham High Street

Opening Times: Monday-Friday 9am until 6pm (ish) and Weekends 10am (ish) until 6pm.

Potentially the best hidden-gem bookshop in London has to be Hurlingham Books ! I accidentally stumbled upon this bookshop when I was flat-hunting in Fulham and completely fell in love with the place.

If light, spacious and well-organised bookshops are your thing, this is the complete opposite! They have thousands of books all stacked on top of each other and piling outside the door, seemingly with no rhyme or reason!

Apparently, Hurlingham Books is the oldest bookshop in South West London, after being opened by owner Ray Cole in 1968. Believe it or not, Ray still opens the bookshop himself daily every single morning! He loves talking about books so do stop and have a chat if you see him.

If for some reason you can't find a book that takes your fancy in their huge amount of books in the store, they have a warehouse housing over a million books just around the corner which makes it impossible to leave empty handed!

They are known for having pretty lax opening times so beware they might open late or close early, or not be open at all if the footballs on, but that's the charm of the place!

6. Stanfords

Location: Covent Gardens

Opening times: Monday to Wednesday 9am until 6pm, Thursday to Friday 9am until 7pm, Saturdays 10am until 7pm and Sundays 12noon until 6pm.

If you are a lover of all things travel and wanderlust , you have to visit Stanfords in Covent Garden !

While they only moved to their standing site in 1950, Standfords themselves have been operating since 1853.

The beautiful building has stacked high bookshelves full to the brim of travel guides, itineraries, maps, and history books from all over the world.

They organise all of their books by country so you will not struggle to find what you are looking for, and if you are missing travel as much as me, you could spend hours perusing the endless shelves.

7. Any Amount of Books

Location: Charing Cross road

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 11am until 7:30pm and Sundays 11am until 6pm.

For second hand books at an affordable price in Central London, Any Amount of Books is the best place to go.

Although it has changed hands and names a few times, there has been a bookstore at this address on Charing Cross road since the 1920s!

It's a great bookshop just to have a long browse in.

Better still if you are visiting London on a budget and want to pick up a good read. As there’s always the possibility of finding books for just £1.

Or even some rare collectable editions!

I always forget this place is located just off Leicester Square because it really has a quaint neighbourhood bookshop feel to it .

New books are always nice, but there's just something better about getting a pre-loved book for an absolute bargain and luckily Any Amount of Books keeps that going even in an age where kindles and e-readers are all the range.

8. Hatchards

Location: Piccadilly

Opening times: Monday until Saturday 9:30am until 8pm and Sundays 12noon until 6pm.

I couldn't write a list about the best bookshops in London without mentioning London's oldest bookshop , Hatchards .

Opened by John Hatchard in 1797 and holding three royal warrants, Hatchards is an iconic spot and a staple of Piccadilly and London itself.

While it is a really really old store, they combine the traditional with the modern beautifully, holding both brand new books and some that are hundreds of years old.

If you are after some rare, original, signed or special edition books, Hatchards is a great place to look! Many famous authors over the years have had their first book signings here so you will likely be able to get your hands on some original signed copies from your favourite authors!

There is now a store in St Pancras which if you want a less prestigious shopping experience, it's worth checking out but really the original in Piccadilly is far superior!

9. Upper Street Bookshop

Location: Islington

Opening times: Everyday from 8:30am until 8:30pm

Upper Street Bookshop is located in one of London’s best places to stay , Angel Islington.

All of their books are carefully handpicked and you will find a mixture of new releases and high-quality remaindered books in the beautiful shop. Their friendly staff are always more than happy to help you find exactly what you are after.

By far the best part of this bookshop though in my opinion is their “blind date with a book” section!

You really can't judge a book by its cover but let's be honest, we all do!

Their blind date section has all their books covered in brown packaging with just a few intriguing words written on them describing the book so you can buy it blindly for only £8 and maybe try something you would have never normally picked up!

Upper Street Bookshops have some awesome great quality tote bags for sale as well so if you are a bookshop tote bag collector like me, definitely grab one when you’re visiting!

It's apparently part of a small chain of independent bookstores called House of Books and if the rest of their shops are as nice as the Upper Street one, I would recommend checking them out too!

10. Word on the Water

Location: Kings Cross

Opening times: Every day from midday until 7pm

Word on the Water has to be the most unique book shops in the whole of London … and maybe even the UK!

A full bookstore set on a 100 year old dutch barge, jump aboard and browse their endless supply of new, old and classic books.

Every nook and cranny of this boat bookstore is an Instagrammers dream , with its higglety pigglety furniture and impressive bookshelves.

It's not just an epic bookshop on a boat either, it's a full experience!

They regularly host talks on things like art and politics and in the summer months, you can see open mic nights, live music and poetry slams hosted on the boat's roof!

11. Daunt Books

Location: Marylebone

Opening times: Monday until Saturday 9am until 7:30pm and Sundays 11am until 6pm.

Daunt books is one of the most famous and iconic bookstores in London .

The beautiful Edwardian building was first opened as a bookshop in 1912, but wasn't actually bought by James Daunt until 1990.

Daunt Books originally specialised in travel books so the whole store is still organised by geographical location, despite now having a huge range now of fiction and new releases.

Although their book selection is great, the building and atmosphere of Daunt Books with their wooden staircases and stained glass windows are what makes the bookstore one of the best! For this reason, although Daunt Books has a few branches now across London, Marylebone is the one to visit!

If you are a keen traveller as well as a book lover, let this be the bookshop to visit, it is one of my favourites and even gets a shout out on my list of the best things to do for free in London !

Location: Berwick Street, Soho

Opening times: Monday to Sunday 10:30am until 7pm

For any comic book fan, Gosh has to be top of your list! They have an unbeaten collection of graphic novels from your rare vintage superhero picks to manga to popular new releases.

Set in the heart of Soho, even if you are not a huge comic book fan like myself, I would highly recommend popping in and seeing what they are all about.

While it's different from your regular cosy London bookshop, Gosh! has a comic or graphic novel for every kind of reader; potentially a good London date idea …

Always check their events schedule as they host monthly reading events, and comic book launches and regularly have signings within the store that you do not want to miss.

13. Watkins Books

Location : Cecil Court

Opening times: Monday to Sunday 11am until 6:30pm

Watkins Books is home to one of the world's largest collections of esoteric books and has been for nearly 120 years!

Set in the beautiful street of Cecil Court, Watkins Books is a unique store, specialising in spiritual books.

They stock a huge variety of literature ranging from Eastern Philosophy, yoga and meditation, self-development, wellness and all that other good stuff!

Their book collection spreads over two floors but they also stock an excellent range of gifts, tarot cards, crystals, incense, statues and jewellery.

14. Henry Pordes Books

Location: Charing Cross

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10:30am until 7:30pm but closed on Sundays.

Located in Charing Cross, Henry Pordes has been a favourite amongst book lovers in London for years!

Its cosy ambient lighting and floor to ceiling bookshelves make you want to browse the second-hand books for hours.

They have a huge range of books, hosting everything from modern delights to early classics. The owners and staff are friendly and book lovers themselves, always helpful and happy to have a natter about their extensive collections.

It's also only around the corner from Cecil Court, home to heaps of small independent bookshops and antique stores. Such as Goldsboro Books, Alice Through the Looking Glass and Travis & Emery, so if you fancy a London bookshop crawl, you can go to a good few in a day!

15. Libreria

Location: Just off Brick Lane

Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am until 6pm, Sundays 12noon until 6pm and closed on Mondays.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and relax in a cosy nook of this awesome bookstore in east London.

Every book in their collection has been handpicked and curated by the owners, meaning on every visit, the stocks will change.

I also love their layout, as unlike other stores that might organise in alphabetical order, Liberia orders by theme or vibe , so there are whole sections dedicated to things like “enlightenment”, “bad feminism”, “identity”, “scandal” and “wanderlust”.

Libreria has a strict no-screens policy, so leave your phone switched off, find yourself a cosy corner and get tucked away into one of their carefully handpicked books!

Which bookshop will you visit?

Thanks for reading my rundown of the best bookshops in London.

Do let me know if you have visited any of these.

Or better still … if there are any more in the city I should check out, as I am always on the lookout.

P.s If you are visiting London soon, do check out some of my other London guides while you are here:

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How to get around London
What to pack for London

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[2023 GUIDE] The 17 Best Places for Shopping in London | TrotterHop

Posted by Mick | Europe , Places to Go | 0

Shopping in London offers various options for every budget and style. From luxury designer boutiques on Bond Street to vintage treasures in Camden Market, you’ll find it all in the capital. Whether you’re looking for high-street fashion, one-of-a-kind gifts, or unique souvenirs, London’s shopping scene is sure to impress. And with world-renowned department stores like Harrods and Selfridges, you’ll experience the ultimate shopping in London.

So pack your bags and get ready to indulge in some serious retail therapy with our shopping guide London below!

The Best Shopping in London

1. oxford street: known for high street fashion and department stores..

Oxford Street is a must-visit destination for any shopping enthusiast visiting London. Known for its high-street fashion and department stores, it offers a wide variety of shops that cater to all your shopping needs. Stretching for over a mile, it is home to some of the world’s most iconic retailers, such as Selfridges, Topshop, H&M, and many more. The street is also famous for its Christmas light displays during the holiday season, which attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Did you know that Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping streets in the world , with over half a billion visitors annually? And if you need a break from shopping, you can pop into one of the many cafes and restaurants for a quick bite and a cuppa.

Oxford – One of the Best London Shopping Street

The area between the Marble Arch, Bond Street, and Oxford Circus underground stations is one of the top shopping destinations in London . This area, spanning a distance of 1.2 km, offers a variety of shopping opportunities for all price ranges.

Starting at the Marble Arch exit of Oxford Street, the first shopping destination is Primark (No. 499-517). Primark is a textile discounter that offers extremely affordable fashion, with T-shirt prices below 10 £ being the norm. Right next door is Park House, which is the location of the River Island (No. 473) branch. This British company’s fashion is known for being young and hip, with singer Rhianna having presented her own collection here in 2013.

On the opposite side of the shopping street is the flagship store of Marks and Spencer (No. 458). With 16,000 m² of retail space, this is the largest M&S department store in the UK, with more than 800 stores across the country. Adjacent to the Marks and Spencer building is the world-famous Selfridges (No. 400) department store. Known for its wide range of luxury goods, Selfridges is presented in an artful and elaborate manner.

Continuing down the street, the next location is the Dr. Martens store (No. 386). This three-story store displays a variety of models from the famous footwear brand. There are also images, information, and exhibits about the history of Dr. Martens in the store, as this brand has evolved from its original working-class roots to become a symbol of solidarity for some youth movements.

The last stop on this shopping spree is the John Lewis store (No. 300). This plain building houses a variety of top-brand fashion from Levi’s to Hugo Boss, as well as a department with a wide range of electronic items.

2. Bond Street: Luxury designer boutiques and high-end fashion brands.

Bond Street in London’s Mayfair is one of the most prestigious shopping streets in the world . It is known for its high concentration of haute couture salons in Europe and a large number of royal warrants. Originally fields belonging to Clarendon House, it was transformed in the 18th century by Sir Thomas Bond and consists of two streets; Old Bond Street and New Bond Street.

Bond Street offers some of the best shopping places in London . Its popularity was immediately apparent, and the social elite flocked to the area to buy fine goods, an event which was further popularised by Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, who called for a boycott of Covent Garden. The street is also known for its art dealers, such as Bonhams and Sotheby’s, who both have a long history on the street. Sotheby’s is also home to the oldest outdoor sculpture in London, dating back to 1600 BC.

In the pedestrianized section between Grafton Street and Clifford Street sits the sculpture ‘Allies,’ created by Lawrence Holofcener to mark 50 years since the end of WWII. The street is a unique destination for shopping in London, and its Christmas light display is a sight to behold. No London shopping trip is complete without indulgence at this iconic destination.

3. Regent Street: Iconic shopping destination with flagship stores from top brands.

Regent Street in London is an iconic and distinctive home of fashion, dining, wellness, and lifestyle, and it offers some of the best places to shop in London .

It was built in 1819 under the direction of architect John Nash, and its Grade II-listed facades represent some of the most distinguished architecture in the capital. When it was first built, it was the original shopping street for the city and has since grown into a world-renowned destination.

Regent Street is renowned for its year-round memorable experiences and globally recognized events, such as Summer Streets and Fashion Festival in September and the switch-on of its iconic Christmas lights in November. The regency buildings are today home to world-class flagship stores such as Tory Burch, Burberry, Coach, Kate Spade, and J. Crew, while the neighboring side streets are home to award-winning restaurants like Araki, Stem, and Sabor.

Regent Street and the surrounding area also offer a range of wellness experiences, such as those found at Kiehl’s, DryBy, Psycle, and Rapha. With its blend of pioneering global names and independent brands, Regent Street and its smaller neighboring streets, including Conduit Street, Mortimer Street, Princes Street, Great Marlborough Street, and Brewer Street, offer something for everyone.

Read More: The Best Hotels in Westminster London

4. King’s Road: Stylish shopping street with a mix of designer and independent boutiques.

King’s Road in London is renowned for its shopping experiences. Stretching for over a mile, it houses over 160 shops, including iconic department stores and boutiques. Throughout history, it has been at the forefront of fashion trends. King Charles was known to wear a waistcoat from the road, while Mary Quant and Vivienne Westwood both made their mark with their iconic miniskirt and tartan two-piece, respectively.

Today, the shops on King’s Road offer a diverse range of styles and tastes, from British designers to sustainable fashion stores. It truly is a melting pot of fashion.

The Shops on King’s Road in London

At the beginning of the King’s Road shopping street, you will encounter the Peter Jones building, located at the corner of Sloan Square. This is the only large department store in the area, offering 8 levels of various departments in a pleasant atmosphere, plus a restaurant with a view on the top floor.

Just a few steps further are the Duke of York Square, where you will find stores, restaurants, and a former chapel that has been converted into a shop premise.

About one block away, on the same side of the street, is a Reiss shop. This London fashion label is known for its high-priced, simple, and elegant style and is one of the favorite labels of Kate Middleton, the wife of Prince William.

Another 500 meters along King’s Road is the Jigsaw store, located at No. 145. This London fashion chain is renowned for its luxury clothing, as well as for having Kate Middleton as one of its former employees. She worked in the purchasing department at Jigsaw.

5. Carnaby Street: Known for its trendy fashion and vintage shops.

Carnaby Street is a trendy shopping destination located in the heart of London’s West End. Known for its fashion, vintage, and alternative boutiques, it offers a wide range of shops that cater to all your shopping needs. The street is home to a mix of high street and independent brands such as All Saints, Superdry, and many more. The street is also popular for its vintage shops offering a chance to score unique finds and one-of-a-kind items.

Carnaby Street is also known for its historical significance, and it was the epicenter of London’s Swinging 60s and youth fashion. The street was also home to the first-ever British branch of the iconic fashion boutique Mary Quant. Today, the street retains its bohemian and trendy vibe. It is also a popular destination for street art and graffiti, making it perfect for those who want to experience London’s counterculture history and unique shopping experience.

6. Knightsbridge: Home to luxury department store Harrods and designer brands.

Ah, Knightsbridge, one of the poshest areas in all of London. This upscale neighborhood is home to some of the most luxurious department stores and designer boutiques you’ll find anywhere in the city. The most famous of all is undoubtedly Harrods, which is a true icon in the world of high-end shopping . This massive department store offers everything from designer fashion and beauty products to fine homewares and gourmet food. It’s a true feast for the senses and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves luxury.

But Harrods isn’t the only draw in Knightsbridge – the neighborhood is also home to a wealth of designer brands and high-end boutiques. You’ll find all the big names here, like Gucci, Chanel, and Prada, and a host of lesser-known but equally luxurious labels. Whether looking for the latest fashion trends or timeless pieces that will never go out of style, you’re sure to find something you’ll love in Knightsbridge.

List Of Shops In Knightsbridge

Burberry Burberry is a company that embodies both tradition and innovation. It is an iconic symbol of England and has a rich heritage that is deeply entrenched in the brand’s culture. Additionally, Burberry has a spirit of creativity and innovation that has been sustained over time. This was recently demonstrated by the succession of the head designer, who works to maintain the traditional and high-brow theme that the brand represents.

Lacoste Lacoste is committed to becoming a casual luxury brand. It aims to represent beauty and uphold high standards of consistency and professionalism in areas such as style, manufacturing, and retail. Through its products and staff, Lacoste provides customers with a unique experience, regardless of where they purchase from – whether it is a physical or digital store. This experience is accessible anywhere in the world.

Ted Baker If you’re looking for a new wardrobe, Ted Baker is the perfect place to go. For those looking for more casual outfits, they have a great selection of women’s and men’s clothing, as well as designer baby clothes. Whether you’re looking for a laidback look for every day or something more eye-catching for a special occasion, Ted Baker has everything you need.

7. Camden High Street: Offers a unique shopping experience with alternative fashion and vintage finds.

Camden High Street is a shopping destination like no other. Nestled in the heart of London, this bustling street offers a unique and eclectic shopping experience for those looking for a little different. Whether you’re a fashionista on the hunt for alternative and edgy styles or a vintage enthusiast searching for one-of-a-kind finds, Camden High Street is the perfect place to explore.

With an array of independent boutiques, market stalls, and vintage shops , you’ll be spoilt for choice as you discover the hidden gems this area offers. From retro clothing and accessories to handmade jewelry and unique gifts, there’s something for everyone on Camden High Street.

8. Notting Hill: Features a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage shops, and independent stores.

Notting Hill is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood in London that offers some of the best places for shopping in London . The area is known for its mix of high-end boutiques, vintage shops, and independent stores that cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. This area offers designer clothing and luxury accessories, one-of-a-kind vintage pieces, and handmade crafts.

The boutique shops feature a carefully curated selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories from some of the most sought-after designers in the fashion industry. The vintage shops are a treasure trove of unique finds and hidden gems, offering a chance to pick up a piece of fashion history. And the independent stores offer a diverse range of products, from home decor to beauty products. Notting Hill is the perfect place to shop, whether you’re looking for something trendy and new or something vintage and unique.

9. Chelsea: Known for its luxury fashion and designer brands.

This iconic street is home to some of the best shops in London , making it a must-visit destination for any fashion lover. But it’s not just about clothes. The King’s Road also has a fantastic selection of vintage and antique shops , perfect for those who want to add a touch of character to their home.

The King’s Road is known for its unique boutiques and designer stores, offering a wide range of clothing and accessories from unique labels and emerging designers. So, whether you’re looking for the perfect vintage armchair or the latest designer dress, you’ll find it all on King’s Road.

Fun fact: The King’s Road was once known for being the stomping ground of the legendary band The Beatles and the swinging 60s crowd. Imagine trying on a new dress while standing on the same pavement as the Fab Four!

10. Marylebone High Street: Offers a mix of high-end fashion, homewares and specialty food shops.

Marylebone High Street is a popular shopping destination in London known for its high-end boutiques and designer shops. The street is home to various luxury fashion brands, such as Anya Hindmarch, LK Bennett, and The Kooples, as well as designer shoe stores like Rupert Sanderson and L.K. Bennett.

Apart from your typical boutique stores, you can also find a range of home decor and furniture shops. We personally love The Conran Shop and Heal’s, as well as specialty stores like Le Labo for perfumes and The Scented Botanist for candles.

11. Fulham Road: A popular shopping street mix of high street and designer brands.

Fulham Road is a shopping destination in London known for its diverse selection of shops and boutiques. The street offers a mix of high-street fashion and independent shops, making it an excellent destination for both budget-friendly and luxury shopping. You can find a variety of famous fashion brands, such as H&M, Zara, and Topshop, as well as designer boutiques like Whistles and Reiss.

Additionally, Fulham Road is home to many furniture and home decor shops like Graham & Green and The White Company, where you can find unique and stylish items for your home. Other specialty shops on the street include The Chelsea Gardener for gardening supplies and The Fulham Wine Room for wine enthusiasts. The street also has a good selection of cafes, bars, and restaurants where you can take a break from shopping and enjoy a meal or a drink.

12. Westfield London (Shepherd’s Bush): One of the largest shopping centers in London.

Westfield London, located in the bustling neighborhood of Shepherd’s Bush, is a true shopping paradise for any fashion-forward traveler. As one of the largest shopping centers in the city, it boasts an impressive array of shops, from high-street favorites to luxury designer brands. The mall features over 265 stores, including designer labels such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton, and popular high-street shops like H&M, Zara, and Topshop. The mall also has a good selection of department stores like House of Fraser, John Lewis, and Marks & Spencer.

13. Covent Garden: Offers a mix of high street brands, independent boutiques, and street performers.

Covent Garden is a popular shopping destination in London known for its diverse range of shops. The area offers a mix of high-street brands, independent boutiques, and specialty shops, making it an excellent destination for both budget-friendly and luxury shopping. Visitors can find popular fashion brands such as H&M, Zara, and Topshop, as well as designer boutiques like Whistles and Reiss. There are also some home decor and gift shops, specialty stores like The Chelsea Gardener and The Fulham Wine Room, bookshops, stationery stores, food and drink shops, and souvenir shops.

14. Soho: Known for its trendy fashion, vintage shops and alternative boutiques.

Soho is a trendy neighborhood in London known for its diverse shopping scene. It offers a wide range of fashion brands such as high-street, designer, vintage, independent designers, alternative, and streetwear fashion. Visitors can find popular high-street fashion brands such as H&M, Zara, and Topshop, as well as designer fashion boutiques like Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood, and All Saints.

The area is also known for its vintage shops and alternative fashion boutiques, where you can find unique and one-of-a-kind items that are not easily found elsewhere. The fashion scene in Soho is constantly evolving, with new boutiques and shops popping up frequently, making it an excellent destination for fashion-forward shoppers looking for something different.

15. Greenwich: Offers a mix of high street brands, independent boutiques and souvenir shops.

Greenwich is a historic neighborhood in London popular for its diverse range of shopping options. Visitors can find antiques and collectibles, handmade crafts and gifts, food and drink, books and art, outdoor gear, maritime souvenirs, vintage and retro items, as well as astronomy and timekeeping-related items. The area features antique shops and markets , offering a wide range of antiques and collectibles such as furniture, art, and ceramics. Outdoor markets in Greenwich include Greenwich Market and Greenwich Antique Market, with a wide range of items such as antiques, vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and street food.

16. Angel: Known for its trendy fashion, vintage shops and alternative boutiques.

Angel is a trendy neighborhood in London known for its unique and diverse shopping scene. The area is mainly known for its trendy fashion, vintage shops, and alternative boutiques. Visitors can find a wide range of fashion boutiques and vintage shops offering a mix of high-street and designer fashion. Angel also has several alternative boutiques and specialty shops, where you can find unique and one-of-a-kind items that are not easily found elsewhere. The area also features a good selection of vintage and retro shops, where you can find a wide range of vintage clothing, accessories, and other items.

17. Piccadilly: Offers luxury department stores, high-end fashion, and fine jewelry shops.

Piccadilly is a glittering gem in London’s shopping crown , renowned for its opulent department stores, designer fashion boutiques, and fine jewelry emporiums. The grand dames of Fortnum & Mason and Hamleys, the world’s oldest toy store, hold court here, while Selfridges and Liberty offer a treasure trove of designer delights.

But, it’s not just department stores that make Piccadilly a shopper’s paradise . High-end fashion heavyweights such as Burberry, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton offer a couture experience, while fine jewelry stores like Bulgari, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co sparkle with precious stones.

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Hello there, thanks for stopping by! My name is Mick – nice to meet you here. I was born in Manila, grew up in Chicago, went to college in San Diego, and then worked for the French Government up until 2017.

Since then, I have been trotting around full-time. I’m grateful and excited to share all things travel with you, and perhaps we’ll cross paths somewhere along in our journey!

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In the Neighborhood: Your ultimate guide to London’s Mayfair

Brimming with opulent shops, restaurants and centuries-old buildings, the mayfair district is london at its most glamorous..

By Joanna Tweedy | May 17, 2024

Just north of Westminster and bordering Hyde Park, Mayfair has long been one of London’s most exclusive districts. Soak up the decadence at a Michelin-starred restaurant , shop at haute couture boutiques or simply wander – these streets are home to some of the city’s grandest architecture.

Mayfair loves design-led restaurants, but its historical taverns are a joy, too. Try:

- Scott’s: A neighborhood institution, Scott’s has been serving up the finest British seafood dishes on Mount Street since 1851. Treat yourself to an order of oysters.

- Mercato Mayfair: Located inside a former church, this hip gastronomic emporium has two floors of food stands, including delights such as gelato from Badiani, bao buns from Steamy & Co and craft beer by German Kraft.

- The Coach and Horses: Established in 1744, this Grade II-listed tavern on Bruton Street is the oldest pub in Mayfair. A cozy spot for pie, mash and a pint, this establishment prides itself on being one of the only truly traditional pubs left in Mayfair.

Find must-do London attractions and lesser-known sights amongst Mayfair’s maze of elegant streets. Check out:

- Handel Hendrix House: A quirky museum dedicated to the former residents of 23 and 25 Brook Street: guitarist Jimi Hendrix and baroque composer George Frideric Handel. You’ll see the former homes of both musicians, hear their music and learn about their time in London, centuries apart.

- Allies sculpture: Take a seat on a bench between bronzed versions of Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt. Celebrating British-American relations, this iconic sculpture is on the corner of New Bond Street and Clifford Street.

- Royal Academy of Arts: Founded by a group of artists and architects in 1768, this impressive building on Piccadilly is home to nearly 32,000 pieces that represent over 250 years of British art.

The quarter’s retail landscape puts Victorian family businesses next to minimalist designer stores. Browse:

- Savile Row: Don’t miss a stroll down this famous fashion street, a shrine to bespoke gentlemen’s tailoring since the late 18th century. Shop renowned luxury brands or have one of the expert tailers make a custom suit with your exact measurements.

- Burlington Arcade: One of the oldest – and prettiest – covered shopping malls in London, you’ll find jewelers, perfumers and tailors selling their wares. The seasonal displays, especially around the holidays, are worth a visit alone.

- Mount Street Printers: Take some unique stationery home from this fine printer that sells everything from leather notebooks to birthday cards and personalized writing paper.

Few London districts are as sophisticated as Mayfair, with the greenery of Hyde Park adding to the charm. Here, visitors can taste the high life, indulge in a delicious lunch, shop for something that will last a lifetime or experience the area’s fascinating tributes to music and art.

Joanna Tweedy is an award-winning travel writer and editor who lives in London. A former UK national newspaper travel editor, she now contributes across many titles, and specializes in writing about family travel, wellness breaks and luxury vacations.

Discover the best of London

London's westminster neighborhood.

Big Ben at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England

Home to some of London’s most fascinating buildings, Westminster offers historical places to eat, see and shop like a local in the city’s buzzing epicenter.

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Head to one of London’s trendiest neighborhoods to discover vintage shopping, street art, history-themed walking tours and the most delicious bagels outside of New York.

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Best London shopping streets & shops that tourists love

Wondering where to shop in London? Here are 11 famous must-visit shopping experiences that attract tourists from around the world.

Waterstones-book-store-piccadilly-shopping-uk

Whether you want to flex your credit card or do a little window shopping, London is a shopper’s paradise. I’ve put together a list of 11 famous must-visit London shopping experiences that attract tourists from around the world. I’ve also included a map for each location.

Jump to section ↓

London shopping

Recognized internationally as one of the world’s most important fashion capitals, London is jam-packed with designer shops, luxury department stores, exclusive shopping streets and famous markets.

1) New Bond Street

For luxury shopping that rivals paris.

New Bond Street is an 800-metre long street in London which links Piccadilly to the famous Oxford Street.

It’s where the rich and famous with expensive and extravagant taste clamour to find a concentration of sophisticated designer shops like Burberry and Hermes, exclusive jewellers like Cartier and Tiffany and high-end art like the kind found at Halcyon Galleries. The infamous Sotheby’s auction house is also located on New Bond Street. ( According to Westminster City Council, Bond Street has the highest density of haute couture stores anywhere in the world. )

In 2017, New Bond Street stole the first-place prize from the Champs Elysées in Paris as the most expensive and sought-after strip of real estate for retailers in Europe. Rents average $1,179 USD per square foot per year on New Bond Street.

You might be interested in reading: 18 of France’s most popular shopping streets for Shopaholics. [

Even if you can’t afford it, it’s worth a trip to do a little window shopping.

2) Fortnum & Mason ( Luxury fine foods )

Known as the best grocery store in England and the official grocer to the royal family for over a century, Fortnum & Mason or Fortnum’s , as it’s known in the UK, was founded in 1707 as a small grocery store selling quality and exotic foods.

During the Victorian era, it grew and expanded to include homeware, beauty products, clothing and accessories to become what some people say is the world’s first department store.

The Fortnum logo and iconic turquoise packaging are known by everyone in the UK and are somewhat of a status symbol.

Be sure to check out their hampers, which are some of the best in the world and their impressive tea selection.

Located at 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London

3) Harrods (the largest department store in the UK)

Charles Henry Harrod founded Harrods in 1849 as a humble grocery store, much like Fortnum & Mason.

Today, Harrods is the largest department store in the UK and represents the height of British luxury.

The store’s motto is “Omnia Omnibus Ubique,” which is Latin for “All things for all people, everywhere,” and it delivers on its promise by providing everything a shopper could ever want, thanks in part to its size…

As the largest, most well-known department store in the UK, Harrods boasts over 1 million square feet of retail space spread over 7 floors and over 330 departments that showcase the best luxury merchandise, from high-end fashion and accessories to the finest homewares and latest technology. There is an acclaimed food hall with nearly 30 restaurants, a toy kingdom for the kids, an Ice cream parlour, a donut shop and more.

Wealthy Egyptian-born Al Fayad, who once owned Harrods, put many of his own personal touches into the building, such as the Egyptian elevator and glittering Egyptian room adorned with several busts of himself. Following the death of Mr. Al Fayad’s son Dodi and Princess Diana in a car crash in Paris, he also created a memorial to the couple in the store.

Plan on spending the whole day and braving the overwhelming crowds of people.

Located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London

4) Selfridges (luxury department store)

The inventor of the modern window displays.

Founded in 1908 by Harry Gordon Selfridge, Selfridges’ flagship store located on the famous Oxford Street is another high-end department store in London—the second largest department store in the UK after Harrods.

If you’ve ever caught an episode of the TV drama Mr. Selfridge (which I love), you know all about how this American-born businessman revolutionized British shopping and invented intricate and artistic window displays that all department stores now have adopted.

Located at 400 Oxford St, Marylebone, London

5. Liberty (Tudor-style luxury department store)

Liberty department store, founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, is one of London’s most traditional-looking department stores—done in the mock Tudor style , also known as half-timbered or “colombage” in French.

When it originally opened, it sold ornaments, fabric and art objects from Japan and the East. Today, Liberty sells luxury goods, including men’s, women’s and children’s fashion, cosmetics and fragrances, jewellery, accessories, homeware, furniture, stationery and gifts.

Located at Great Marlborough Street in the West End of London.

6. Harvey Nichols (Princess Diane used to shop here )

Harvey-Nichols-department-store-shopping-london-uk

Founded in 1831 by Benjamin Harvey, Harvey Nicols was originally opened as a linen shop but expanded over the years to become an upscale department store.

Located just a few blocks from Harrods, some might say that Harvey Nichols is the younger, more fashionable version of the two.

Princess Diana often frequented the 5th-floor restaurant.

Located at 109-125 Knightsbridge, Belgravia, London

7. Mount Street ( Luxury shopping street)

Not to be missed when visiting London is Mount Street in London’s affluent Mayfair district.

The street is an aspiring mix of old-world charm and 21st-century niche, luxury, beauty, fashion, art, antiques and exclusive restaurants. It gives Bond Street a run for London’s luxury retail supremacy.

Prestigious brands that call Mount Street home include Balenciaga London, Lanvin Ladies Boutique, Goyard, Moynat, Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta, Stephen Webster (jeweller shop), and niche retailers like antique and cigar shops. There’s even a Porsche showroom.

Located at Mount Street in London

8. Saville Row (a street lined with stores f or finely tailored suits)

Savile Row-street-bespoke-tailoring-london-UK

If you’re interested in getting something tailored, then head over to Saville Row. A short little street that has become synonymous with good tailoring.

Henry Poole & Co., who is credited as being the founder of Saville Row and its reputation as THE PLACE FOR BESPOKE TAILORING, is also credited with creating the modern Tuxedo in 1864. The shop still exists at No.15!

Bespoke tailoring: clothing cut from a pattern drafted from scratch for the customer. Think of bespoke tailoring as the opposite of off-the-rack ready-to-wear suits.

In 2018, the website GQ British featured the article “Savile Row tailors: the GQ Guide,” which called “London the menswear’s global capital with Savile Row being the most important street in that world because it creates the best suits in this world.”

The street is so legendary for the quality of its tailoring that the Japanese word for a three-piece business suit is “Sabiro,” which is a Japanified way of saying “Savile Row.”

Located at Savile Row, Mayfair, London

9. Waterstones at Picadilly ( For Book Lovers)

Waterstones is a British book retailer with over 200 retail outlets. The Waterstones flagship building at Piccadilly is the store to visit, though.

Be prepared to spend the whole day here because the book selection can’t be beaten, and the location is huge. It’s literally an 8 story department store of books —the largest bookstore in Europe.

There are comfortable sofas, an excellent restaurant & café on the 5th floor open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can even enjoy a glass of wine and settle down with a good book.

Located at 203-206 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London

10. Hamley’s ( For Toy store Lovers)

If there were a paradise on earth for kids, it would probably be Hamley’s—the oldest, largest and best-known toy shop in the world. This place makes Toys R Us look like a dump.

Set over 7 floors; it’s considered one of the cities’ top tourist attractions. Entering the store, you will be amazed. There is so much going on on every floor.

There are wonderful toy displays and live toy demonstrations by the staff renowned for their fun, friendly demeanour. There are also themed areas like the Harry Potter-themed area on the lower floor.

What else would you expect from the best toy shop in the world!!

Get there early; the shop fills up fast. And be prepared to spend a lot of money. Most travellers complain that this store is extremely expensive.

Located at 188-196 Regent St, Soho, London

11. Borough Market (Covered outdoor Food Market)

This bustling covered market located next to London Bridge is London’s most renowned and oldest food market, dating back to the 12th century.

A visit to the market is like taking a culinary trip around the world, with its fascinating maze of stands, stalls and carts selling anything and everything from all four corners of the earth. From Spanish Tapas and spicy Thai Curry to favourite local dishes, you can’t go wrong here.

There is no smoking allowed, and no dogs are allowed, except for seeing-eye dogs.

Hours of Operation: Open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. On Fridays, the shops close at 6 pm. (closed on public holidays). On Monday and Tuesday, not all of the traders are present, but still plenty of choices.

Located at 8 Southwark Street, London

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Home » Travel » Destinations » 31 Best Gifts from London Recommended by a Local

31 Best Gifts from London Recommended by a Local

Gold Big Ben keychain sititng on ledge by river, with text overlay - "31 best things to buy in London".

From antique books to adorable bears, there are endless things to buy in London when you come for a visit. As an expat, I feel compelled to bring a few of the best gifts from London when I return to the US to see family and friends.

Holiday display with Mario and Santa Claus LEGO figures in Covent Garden, seen while shopping for best gifts from London.

Having lived in the city for a few years now, I’ve sussed out the best places to shop for everything, so I can help you avoid paying £50 for a mediocre box of posh chocolates.

London is a notoriously expensive place to shop, but you’ll find plenty of affordable things to buy on this list. That being said, I couldn’t resist sharing a few of my top spots to splurge (Choosing Keeping is a dangerous place if you love beautiful notebooks and pens)!

Whether you’re a traveler looking for unique London souvenirs, or a shopper in need of gifts for people who love London, you can’t go wrong with these items.

RELATED: Ultimate 4 Days in London Itinerary From a Local

Best Gifts from London Shops

Perfume from les senteurs.

Blue facade of Les Senteurs with flowers and roses on window.

Les Senteurs is London’s oldest independent perfumery. Located in the gorgeous Belgravia neighborhood (near the Insta-famous Peggy Porschen cupcake shop), Les Senteurs is all about helping guests find the perfect fragrance.

They use a color-coding method called the “ Senteur System ” that groups scent profiles together, so you can seek out Aquatic perfumes that evoke days on the beach, or Floral perfumes that conjure up a sweet summer garden.

Their staff are true experts, with the ability to recommend a perfume based on vague descriptions. You can also get suggestions based on other fragrances you (or your gift recipient) liked in the past.

Les Senteurs is one of the more posh places to shop in London, so it’s best suited for splashing out on a partner or dear friend/relative. But if you’re looking for a unique and thoughtful gift, it’s an excellent choice.

Books from one of London’s famous bookshops

Interior of Hatchards bookshop in London with Royal Warrant seal on wall.

London is a bookish city, with over 100 independent bookshops and countless chain locations. Given its rich literary tradition, a book from one of the city’s famous bookshops is an ideal gift from London for the readers in your life.

My personal favorite is Hatchards, which is London’s oldest bookshop. Their flagship store in Picadilly opened in 1797, and it has three Royal Warrants from the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales, and the Queen herself. They also recently opened a smaller location inside St. Pancras International station.

Daunt Books is another fantastic bookshop with multiple locations. Their original Marylebone store is utterly gorgeous and has a large travel section filled with international and local guides and fiction works.

Most of the city’s independent booksellers also give out beautiful (and free) bookmarks with every purchase. They add a nice “only in London” touch to your gift.

RELATED: 15 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

Tea sets from Fortnum & Mason

Blue and white tea saucer commemorating marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in Fortnum and Mason.

The Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea experience is overrated in my opinion. But their gift shop has some lovely teas and tea sets, including limited edition items you can’t find anywhere else.

If you don’t want to splash out on a full set, you can buy individual cup and saucer combos as well. They also have really nice hampers (gift baskets for my American friends) that include jams, drinks, truffles, biscuits, and other goodies.

Umbrella from James Smith & Sons

Exterior of James Smith & Sons umbrella store with man holding umbrella outside door.

Umbrellas have to be one of the most iconic things to buy in London. And there’s no better place to pick one up than James Smith & Sons.

Founded in 1830, they sell quality British crafted umbrellas and walking sticks with stunning carved details. If you can’t splurge on a £300 umbrella with a wooden jaguar handle, their affordable standard retractable umbrellas are excellent and won’t break like the cheap ones they sell at convenience stores and London souvenir shops.

Anything posh from Harrods

Fancy hats on display inside Harrods department store.

Every London sightseeing trip should include a visit to Harrods. The ultra-posh department store’s gilded elevators, chandeliered ceilings, and marble floors make it feel more like a palace than a place to shop.

If you’re on the hunt for the very best gifts from London, you’ll find them in Harrods. From limited-edition designer sweaters to slabs of chocolate made to look like gold bars, it’s a treasure trove of options.

Even if you decide not to buy anything, be sure to treat yourself to a tasty patisserie or truffle in the basement food hall before you leave!

Antiques from Portobello Road Market

Red exterior of Alice's antique shop and Portobello Road market.

Portobello Road Market is the first place I went shopping in London. We were staying in Notting Hill while trying to find a flat , and we spent hours browsing the street stalls and brick-and-mortar shops selling antiques and vintage items.

With over 1,000 dealers specializing in everything from books to snuff boxes, Portobello Road is the world’s largest antiques market. I’ve scored early editions of Charles Dickens novels, pretty tea cups (from the famous Alice’s pictured above), and a lovely bracelet during my trips to the market.

P.S: If you need a mid-shopping snack, there are multiple hot food stalls open on Fridays and Saturdays selling a wide array of international foods (the arepa stall is my favorite)!

Leather shoes from Grenson

Shoes may seem an odd choice of gifts to buy in London. But there’s nothing quite like a solid pair of leather shoes that conform to your exact foot shape.

Founded in 1866, Grenson shoes is THE place to get brogues and Oxfords. Their shoes are handmade in England and crafted with comfort and durability in mind. If your gift recipient is someone who dresses up for work, they’ll get plenty of compliments on their Grenson shoes (though they might be the silent kind if they work in England).

Premium pet toys and accessories from Mungo & Maud

Storefront display of Mungo & Maud with white dog doll on stand.

After living in London for a few months, it became clear that people here spoil their pets. And there’s no better place to get premium pet toys and accessories than Mungo & Maud.

This boutique pet outfitter has everything from leather leads to cashmere cat beds. Their main shop is in Belgravia (the home of the best London gift shops), but they also have a mini location inside Harrods.

Quality stationery and writing supplies from Choosing Keeping

Brightly colored notebooks and pens on table inside Choosing Keeping store in London.

I have a bit of a notebook obsession, and my family knows it. I’m a sucker for beautiful covers, blank pages, and the smell of paper.

If you’re shopping for someone with a similar affliction, you’re in luck! London is home to some of the world’s best stationery stores.

Choosing Keeping in Seven Dials is hands down the best place to buy notebooks in London. Their curated stock is super high quality, with a wide range of bindings, materials, and paper types. They also carry a gorgeous selection of ballpoint and fountain pens, inks, cards, and watercolors.

For a bigger selection of writing and drawing materials, check out Present & Correct. They carry everything a journaller or stationery fan could want, from washi paper to bullet journals.

Harry Potter stuff from House of Spells

Display of Harry Potter stuff in London shop House of Spells, including duffel bags and mugs.

For many foreign visitors, London is synonymous with Harry Potter. And with a dog named Albus, you can probably guess that I’m a big fan, too.

If you’re wondering where to buy Harry Potter stuff in London, I know just the place.

You can skip the crowded gift shop at King’s Cross Platform 9 ¾ and head over to House of Spells in Leicester Square. They carry many of the same things as the more popular Platform 9 ¾–wands, robes, books, etc.–but without the crushing crowds. I’m actually writing this while wearing a Hogwarts sweatshirt I bought there!

And if your UK travel bucket list includes a trip to the Warner Bros Studio tour, you can get even more exclusive HP merch from their gift shop.

Something sparkly from Hatton Garden

Known as the Diamond District, Hatton Garden is London’s prime destination for all things sparkly. This Farringdon street is home to dozens of jewelers selling new, used, and bespoke jewelry.

To be candid, I’m not much of a jewelry person, so I don’t have a specific recommendation of where to shop. However, Eric Ross Jewellers is regarded as one of the best shops on the street, especially for engagement rings.

Vintage vinyl records in Soho

Woman shopping for gifts in London at vinyl record shop.

From David Bowie to Florence + The Machine, London has been home to many famous musical acts. Although Britain’s “ Tin Pan Alley ” of recording studios is well past its heyday, there are a number of fab vintage vinyl shops in the area.

Soho’s big three–Reckless Records, Sister Ray, and Phonica Records–carry a great selection of vinyl records (and CDs). And if you find yourself in Notting Hill, Honest Jon’s is a long-standing and wonderfully cozy shop famous for its blues and reggae vinyl collection.

Unique music merch from themed stores and museums

Sticking with the music-themed things to buy in London, there are plenty of shops selling unique merch from popular artists.

The Handel and Hendrix museum, which is inside the house where both Jimi Hendrix and composer George Frideric Handel lived at one time, has a gift shop with some cool items that feature both legends.

The Beatles Store next to Baker Street Station is full of memorabilia, artwork, and other souvenirs. And if you’re shopping for London gifts for rock and roll fans, check out It’s Only Rock ‘n’ Roll across the street.

Flowers from Columbia Road Flower Market

Displays of flower bouquets at Columbia Road Flower Market.

Getting fresh flowers from Columbia Road flower market is always a treat. With over 50 stalls, you’re sure to find the perfect bouquet or potted plant.

But if you’re looking for something you can pack in a suitcase, there are several vendors selling seeds. Just be sure to check the customs rules if you’re taking them outside the UK, as some countries may not allow you to bring foreign seeds without proper paperwork (or at all).

Gardening tools from Kew Gardens

If you want to get your green-thumbed friend a gift you can only buy in London, you can’t go wrong with gardening tools from Kew Gardens. Their gift shop has lovely wooden-handled trowels, leather gloves, watering cans, and other kit that would make for beautiful presents.

A long stroll through Kew Gardens is a good way to escape the hustle and bustle of London. But if you aren’t planning to go inside, you can shop online instead.

Vintage threads from Brick Lane Vintage Market

Racks of vintage jackets outside Brick Lane Vintage market in London.

Brick Lane’s Vintage Market always has gorgeous pieces when I visit. From leather jackets to dresses to gloves, you’ll find a wide selection of vintage threads at reasonable prices.

It’s also less crowded here than the stalls on Portobello Road, so you don’t feel as rushed when you’re searching for the best London present.

Best London Souvenirs to Buy

Paddington bear.

My dear family friend has a massive collection of Paddington bears, so I have a soft spot for them. But nostalgia aside, these adorable stuffed animals are really the perfect London souvenirs.

There’s an entire beloved series of Paddington books (and movies now) about his escapades after arriving in the UK from Darkest Peru, though his origin story is that he was stranded at London’s Paddington station and rescued by the Brown family.

You’ll find Paddington-themed stuff for sale in many souvenir shops and children’s stores. And if you’re passing through Paddington Station, be sure to stop by the truck (pictured above).

London mugs

Shelves with London themed mugs including red bus and phone box.

Mugs are popular souvenirs wherever you go. But given how much Brits love their tea, mugs make for especially excellent gifts from London.

Your typical souvenir shop will have generic mugs with prints of London scenes and landmarks. If you want something more unique, like a mug with a telephone booth for a handle, check out Cards Galore. Many of them have a small collection of fun mugs in addition to greeting cards.

Christmas ornaments

Red phone box ornament in front of pine branch on table.

England knows how to deck the halls for Christmas–it’s one of the best things about living here . So naturally, a London-themed Christmas ornament would be an appropriate souvenir.

All the famous department stores and major home goods shops (John Lewis, M&S, The Range, etc.) start selling Christmas decor in October. But if you’d like to grab an ornament outside the festive season, you can usually find them for sale in the city’s many gift shops

Anything from the V&A gift shop

London’s Victoria & Albert Museum (a.k.a. The V&A) is a must see in its own right. The gorgeous building houses a world-class collection of art, design, and cultural artifacts through the ages.

Given its distinctive and sometimes quirky contents, it’s no surprise that the V&A gift shop is packed with unique London souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. Here you’ll find everything from literary print aprons to eclectic chunky necklaces to Japanese-inspired wallpaper.

Street and Tube signs

Rows of London street sign on display for sale.

Oddly enough, the city’s iconic signage has been a popular thing to buy in London for decades. Whether you’re after the rounded rectangle street signs or a fun London Tube sign, you won’t have too much trouble finding a street vendor who sells them.

Keep your eyes peeled around Oxford Street and Leicester Square. You’ll also find stalls selling them at Portobello Road market and sometimes Brick Lane market. I’ve even passed by furniture shops that sell them as wall decor!

Kitschy London souvenirs

Shelves of London souvenirs including pillows, mugs, tote bags, etc.

It wouldn’t be right to leave off classic kitschy London souvenirs from this list. You can’t walk 5 metres through London’s touristy areas without stumbling across stalls bursting with magnets, keychains, figurines, tote bags, bottle openers, pillows, and all manner of random items.

While I’m not one to buy clutter-type gifts when I travel, my husband absolutely loves the bottle opener keychain we bought at the Tower of London gift shop. It’s held up wonderfully for three years and gets plenty of use during our travels.

Football accessories

Football is kind of a big deal in the UK. On game days, you’ll find team flags hanging from windows and loud cheers echoing from pubs into the streets.

With football fandom being nearly ubiquitous, you won’t have any trouble finding accessories for the country’s many teams. All of the athletic apparel stores on Oxford Street (Adidas, Nike, JD Sports, etc.) sell current season jerseys, shirts, and sometimes shorts for popular teams like Chelsea and Manchester United.

If you’re looking for more team variety including vintage jerseys, check out the Classic Football Shirts Shop . Located just outside of Brick Lane’s Vintage market, this place has racks upon racks of shirts for all sorts of England and European league teams.

Corgi plush from Buckingham Palace gift shop

I couldn’t resist adding this cute London souvenir to the list!

If you visit London between July-October, you can take an amazing tour through Buckingham Palace. At the end of the tour, you’ll pass through a gift shop that has, among other things, a whole bin full of adorable corgi plushies (the Queen’s favorite dogs). I can’t think of a better gift from London for dog lovers.

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Collage of street signs, pillows, and red phone box ornament, with text overlay - "31 must buy souvenirs from London".

Best Edible Gifts from London

Artisan ingredients from borough market.

Sign outside Borough Market with arrow pointing the way left.

Going to Borough Market is dangerous if you’re on a diet or a budget. It’s one of my favorite places in London to shop for artisan ingredients and foods, and I often end up spending £50+ every time I visit.

With a long list of traders , you’ll have plenty of gift options to bring back home. My must-visit stalls are Fitz Fine Foods for Kent-made preserves and condiments, The Olive Oil Co, and The Cider House.

If you’re able to bring perishables back, grab a wedge of Merry Wyfe of Bath from the Bath Soft Cheese Co, and some deliciously moist chocolate brownies at Free From Bakehouse.

Artisan chocolates from Rococo Chocolates

Is there a better combination of two words than “luxury chocolate”?

Rococo has been making mouth-watering British chocolates for nearly 40 years, and their expertise shows in flavors like caramelized almond and strawberry champagne. They have multiple locations, including St. John’s Wood and Belgravia (I told you this was the best neighborhood to buy gifts from London!).

Their artisan confections are pricey but totally worth it. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option and are planning a trip to Borough Market, So Chocolicious makes fantastic truffles and can package them up as a gift.

Tea from Twinings

Close-up of Twinings facade with statues of two men and golden lion.

When you need gifts for people who love London, you can’t go wrong with tea from the historic Twinings. Thomas Twining founded Britain’s first tea room in 1706 at No. 216 Strand, London. It’s still in operation today, and you can buy a wide variety of teas there that you won’t find at the local supermarket.

Twinings tea is a staple in my house, particularly their loose leaf green tea. Plus, the canisters are pretty enough that you don’t even need to wrap them.

Themed biscuits from Biscuiteers

Exterior of Biscuiteers shop in London with black and white striped awning.

You may have seen the Insta-famous black and white striped awning of Biscuiteers before you even arrived in London. But the cuteness doesn’t stop at the facade. Inside, you’ll find tons of adorably frosted biscuits for every occasion.

Our family members were delighted when we showed up for Christmas with little tins of Paddington and London-themed biscuits. The edible Tube signs and phone boxes were a big hit with adults and kids alike.

Three bottles of English gin: Sipsmith, Plymouth, and Silent Pool.

Gin is incredibly popular in the UK. There was even a “ gin craze ” back in the 1700s that led to a ban on the beloved drink!

After a bleak couple of centuries, gin has bounced back and gained a more sophisticated reputation. Today, there are a number of English distilleries making craft gin, from long-standing Sipsmith to London-based Hayman’s (my personal favorite).

You can purchase locally crafted gin at pretty much any supermarket, but the best variety can be found at Gerry’s in Soho or Oddbins (they have various locations).

Coffee beans from Monmouth

Exterior of Monmouth Coffee shop in Covent Garden with people waiting in line to enter.

No matter what time I pass by Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden, there’s a line out the door. And for good reason–their coffee is seriously amazing.

They’ve been roasting coffee since 1978, with a rotating selection of beans depending on the season. All of their coffee is ethically sourced from single farms, estates, and co-ops. They also sell beans at their Borough Market and Spa Terminus locations.

I hope you’ve found some ideas for the best gifts to buy in London. And don’t forget to pick up a few treats for yourself along the way!

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2 thoughts on “31 Best Gifts from London Recommended by a Local”

Lovely ideas! Thanks so much for sharing! I will be checking out the bookstores, paperless, and markets! And I agree with you the afternoon tea at F&M was overrated. Where else might you suggest?

Hi Sarah, if you want a show-stopping tea experience that’s worth the high price tag, the Aqua Shard does a great tea with views over the city. I also find that nice hotels put on good afternoon teas for a fraction of the price.

15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting London

O ne of the top places to visit in Europe or the U.K., London is a bustling city with ample things to see and do. Perfect for history lovers, theatre enthusiasts, luxury brand shoppers, foodies, and spa-goers especially, the Big Smoke has all the makings of a fabulous vacation, any way you slice it. Of course, with countless attractions, must-see museums, incredible restaurants, various entertainment districts, and a party till the sun comes up kind of nightlife, a trip to this iconic metropolis can seem overwhelming at first.

Even if this is not your first time heading to the Big Smoke, planning your itinerary is no small feat. And, regardless of what you decide to get into while vacationing, there are several important odds and ends, including lodgings and transportation, that still need to be sorted ahead of time. So, to ensure your whirlwind getaway goes off without a hitch, here are 15 essential travel hacks that are absolute game-changers when visiting London.

Read more: It's Time To Ditch These 10 Outdated Travel Tips

Visit During The Shoulder Season

When considering a trip across the pond, timing is everything. In the warmer months, London is overflowing with tourists and locals, which means many wonderful attractions are harder to enjoy, waiting in long lines is the norm, and popular activities sell out fast. What's more, travel prices tend to be higher across the board. So, booking a trip to London during the shoulder season is the more pragmatic way to go.

London's shoulder season is usually from September to mid-October and around March till the first half of May. During either time, the weather tends to be more amenable, and things are often more affordable. Plus, travelers do not need to concern themselves with the summer or winter holiday crowds. Though there are spectacular events during the holidays and more than a few outdoor concerts, sporting tournaments, and other happenings going on from late May to September, if you want to experience what this city has to offer sans the masses and without breaking the bank, then the shoulder season is definitely one of the best times to visit.

Look For Accommodations In Central London

With dozens of options available, if you prefer a hotel, an Airbnb, or a hostel, the Big Smoke has no shortage of places to stay. That said, the area you choose to stay in is actually more important here. As you are likely aware, London is a rather large city, so choosing the right area or neighborhood matters. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, shopping, and more, then you should definitely look for accommodations in central London or the West End.

Though the center of London is a little pricier than, say, Victoria or Paddington, it is well worth the extra money, as you are closer to all the fun and entertainment. Of course, depending on the desired price range, travelers can peruse hotels and lodgings in West End and Westminster neighborhoods like Mayfair, Trafalgar, Soho, and Covent Garden. Here is where you will find fabulous options with ample convenience and nearby transportation, plus a range of attractions, pubs, and popular restaurants practically around every corner.

Pack For The Destination

Packing for a London getaway is pretty straightforward, no matter the season. Smart casual layers will work for almost any kind of weather. However, it is worth noting that people tend to dress well here, so make sure you have the proper attire for any nice dinners, plays, or nights out on the town.

In the shoulder season, you can expect, for the most part, mild weather that may require a jacket or fleece at night. Waterproof windbreakers and scarves are always a must in the U.K. If you happen to be visiting in September or October, gloves and a hat are also great to have with you. In addition to warm layers and seasonal accessories, your footwear is crucial in London. Even if walking tours are not your thing, there is still a lot of ground to cover in this thrilling city. Therefore, a pair of comfy, ideally waterproof shoes will ensure you can go the extra mile if need be.

Prepare For Rain

London is no stranger to rain, and a light shower can happen at any time as the weather in the city is often unpredictable. Thankfully, prolonged periods of rain or all-day showers are not all that common in the shoulder season. And the Big Smoke typically gets the bulk of its rain in November. Nonetheless, most months experience rainfall, approximately 11 to 15 days each month, to be exact.

As a result, preparing for rain, even at the start of the shoulder season, will make you a savvy traveler. A raincoat, an umbrella, or an alternative activity such as a museum day, afternoon tea, or a spa retreat for two in the event of a prolonged downpour is really all one needs here. Travelers can easily spend a few hours browsing art and ancient artifacts, enjoying a spot of tea with finger sandwiches, or catching up on self-care if they so choose. But remember, with the necessary preparation, you can always go about your day as planned, too.

Get An Oyster Card

There are more than a few ways to get around London, such as walking, taxi, or Uber. But when your destination is clear across town, it is highly recommended that you explore other modes of transportation. When doing so, you will quickly see that most options accept Oyster cards. If you are unsure what an Oyster card is, it is a convenient smartcard that allows you to quickly and effortlessly pay for your fare — for buses, on the Tube, as well as when taking trams, riding the National Rail, and aboard the River Bus.

The Visitor Oyster card , specifically, makes getting around London much more straightforward and is the more budget-friendly choice. Available in various amounts, travelers can order these handy cards before their trip and receive them at home. Even if you only plan on taking advantage of the Tube or the tram occasionally, you won't have to waste valuable vacation time waiting in line to purchase a ticket or trying to access the city's underground train. So, do yourself a favor and get a Visitor Oyster card.

Navigate The City Like A Local

Learning to navigate the city like a local is yet another travel hack to keep in mind when strolling about London on foot. The easiest way for visitors to take to the street like a Londoner is with a quick review of the walking etiquette rules, which you can find on the GOV.uk website. Of course, you are not expected to memorize all 30-plus rules. But you definitely should keep to the left when walking and match the pace with other pedestrians (most locals walk promptly, assertively, and without being glued to their cellphones).

Other useful rules, like thoroughly looking out for oncoming traffic and staying a reasonable distance from the curb for obvious safety reasons, are also important to know. Similarly, minding the gap on train platforms, obeying pedestrian crossing lights, and reading the relevant signage make getting around the Big Smoke much more pleasant and less hazardous. Plus, with millions of people out and about in London almost every day, being considerate of others comes with the territory and is not something visitors should overlook.

Remember You're On Military Time

When deciding what activities or excursions to book, it is vital that you pay attention to the date and time. The U.K., in general, uses both the 12-hour and 24-hour notations. But you will see more 24-hour clocks while on vacation in London. And, to avoid any confusion regarding daytime versus nighttime hours, people tend to stick to military time for departure times, business hours, showtimes, and more. So, get ready to do a quick math problem in your head if you are not used to the 24-hour clock.

Similarly, London visitors need to be on the lookout for how the date is written. Typically, you will see the date as day-month-year. Therefore, it never hurts to double-check your bookings and make sure your reservations are for the right day. Both the date format and the use of military time may throw you off at first. But you can save yourself a lot of trouble, especially when making travel arrangements online, by simply recalling these fun facts.

Book Everything In Advance

Speaking of bookings, there is a wealth of entertainment available in the Big Smoke, often only a few clicks away. From enjoying the royal jewels and afternoon tea bus tours to appreciating the arts and the iconic figures of yesteryear, you can indulge in it all. In fact, with so many things to do and see here, you may find you are short on time before you have even begun.

A tried-and-true travel hack to ensure you get the most out of your trip to London is to book everything in advance. Why spend valuable time waiting in long lines? The harsh reality is that seating for most activities and dining experiences is never first-come, first-serve, and everything tends to cost more the day of or at the box office. Likewise, popular events, day trips, and highly rated excursions are bound to sell out fast. So, take a second when planning your London getaway to book reservations, tours, plays, spa treatments, and anything else that piques your interest beforehand.

Make The Most Of Free Admission

Adding free-entry art houses, the best museums in London , and larger-than-life libraries to the itinerary is also a great travel hack, especially if you prefer to stay on a budget. Saving money in such an expensive city is always a win, and you can explore fine art spaces, world history, science, fashion, and more while you save. Several must-sees like the British Museum, the British Library, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the Science Museum, and the Design Museum do not charge admission.

And even though there are just a dozen or so museums, galleries, and libraries in London that are free to the public, they are some of the most renowned. But free admission does not stop there — the Royal Parks and the City of London churches are also wonderful other no-cost options. Plus, the Big Smoke is known for its gratis events and festivals that happen all year round — providing more opportunities for visitors to make the most of free admission.

Hit The Shops During The Week

For luxury brand enthusiasts and avid shoppers, London does not disappoint. In fact, this city is home to some of the best brand-name outlets around. Spectacular shopping districts that will have you spending your vacation pennies include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and St. James's. Unsurprisingly, these high-end shopping areas, in particular, are overflowing with people, especially on the weekends. As a result, if you come to shop, it is better to do so during the week.

Besides these above-mentioned districts, London visitors can also find incredible shopping at Bond Street and Mayfair, Westfield Shopping Centre, King's Road, Carnaby, and Seven Dials. Though these spots are often less crowded on the weekends in comparison, they still offer quite the selection and attract the masses. However, instead of luxury lifestyle brands, shoppers will find emerging designers, the latest fashions, and one-of-a-kind home goods — making a weekday spree the better choice for snagging highly coveted items before they are gone.

Order At The Bar When In Pubs

Table service at a pub is quite uncommon in London. To avoid not being served, patrons must order and pay at the bar. The same goes for snacks or pub eats — ordering happens at the bar. Typically, patrons order drinks, pay, and then carry their pints and cocktails back to their seats. For food requests, you will likely be given (or have to provide) a table number for your grub so it can be brought to you.

Ordering at the pub bar while doing the complete opposite in restaurants or other dining establishments may initially seem odd or slightly annoying. But when you think about it, it actually makes life a little easier. You do not have to worry about giving a tip and flagging someone down for another round. Patrons also do not have to sit around aimlessly waiting for the bill so that they can pay and leave. Instead, when you are ready to move on to the next pub or call it a night, you simply get up and go.

Try The Cuisine

The British are not necessarily known for their cuisine, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try the food. The culinary experience you can have while visiting the Big Smoke may just surprise you. Not only are there diverse options in this multicultural mecca, but there are some classic dishes such as fish and chips, Beef Wellington, bangers (sausages) and mash, Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, and other must-tries.

In addition to some quintessential Londoner eats, travelers who have never sat down for afternoon tea should add a classic London afternoon tea or two to their to-do list. Foodies willing to try it all can savor the hearty full English breakfast, shepherd's pie, Scotch eggs, and bubble and squeak (potatoes and cabbage fried to perfection). What's more, for travelers with a sweet tooth, London has more than a few desserts like the sticky toffee pudding, Eton mess, and a trifle that will satisfy your cravings.

Skip The Tip While Eating Out

Tipping in London is definitely tricky business. Many restaurants have a 12.5% service charge automatically added to the bill. So, tipping is not necessary there. Alternatively, drinking establishments do not have a service charge, and tipping isn't really part of the process. Therefore, skipping the gratuity when eating out or grabbing a few drinks with friends is perfectly acceptable.

However, tipping does come into play in hotels and with certain hospitality services -- spas, taxis, and private tours. In these instances, the general rule of thumb is to tip somewhere between 10% and 15% for hotel dining, porters, door staff, massage therapists, and so on. When taking a black cab, leaving gratuity becomes a little more discretionary. At the end of the fare, travelers can decide to tip or not — though it is considered polite to either round up or add on a few pounds if you are happy with the service.

Budget Accordingly

When visiting London, going over budget or getting carried away on Regent Street is not difficult to do. From eating out every single day and excursions (both near and far) to shopping, treating yourself, and transportation, things can start to add up quickly. Most travelers budget for flights, accommodations, and entertainment and aim to spend a reasonable amount of money per day per person in this famous old city.

Still, those same travelers forget to consider the exchange rate and are often shocked at the cost. London isn't cheap by any means. Thus, budgeting for any trip across the pond should incorporate the exchange rate, money-saving tips, and everyone's individual travel style. You should also factor in last-minute price changes in your itinerary and unforeseeable expenses (lost items, medicines, other modes of transportation, and more). And remember, when creating your travel budget for London, you need to be honest with yourself — are you trying to splurge or save? This way, there will be no surprises.

Make Room For Day Trips

Lastly, for travelers who have already seen most of the city sights, making room in your itinerary and budget for a day trip or two is highly recommended. Spending days on end in the Big Smoke is exciting, fast-paced, and full of amazement. Nevertheless, this may be one of the only times you are this close to the English countryside, fascinating ruins, castles, quaint seaside villages, vast hiking trails, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and the whole of Europe.

Even if all you need is a mini-break from the hustle and bustle of the city, more than a few phenomenal destinations (including other countries) are only a train ride away. Paris, for example, is only two hours away. Plus, wanderers staying for a couple of weeks can spend their weekends in other far-off and magical places. Ultimately, a semi-lengthy London getaway can be whatever you decide to make it — and with these travel hacks at your disposal, you can make visiting London and its surrounding bits an exceptional experience you will never forget.

Read the original article on Explore .

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26 Unique Bookstores To Visit In London

Destinations
United Kingdom

London is a reader’s dream — and a shopper’s dream as well. However, exactly how many bookstores are in London is a bit of a mystery. According to one map online, there are 112 independent bookshops in the British capital. But based on my own knowledge, there are oodles more, mostly little secondhand shops tucked into corners all around the city. Then there are the non-independent stores, the regional chains, and the global powerhouses. Add in the kiosks at train stations, museums, and multi-purpose stores, and the number of book-selling establishments must push close to 1,000. That’s great news if you’re a reader like me!

Travis & Emery and Watkins bookshops in Covent Garden.

Some of these shops are more than just a place to buy a book or two. They’re legends in their own right, acting as community hubs and welcoming tourists as if they’re locals. Here are some to put on your travel list, starting with general interest establishments and concluding with specialty shops.

1. Book Mongers (Brixton)

One of London’s best bookstores was founded by an American, Patrick Kelly. Dedicated fans of Book Mongers love the used bookstore’s cramped but well-organized shelves. Keep an eye out for Popeye, the scrappy resident shop cat, and be sure to ask for “Popeye’s Picks” when browsing the books.

2. Broadway Bookshop (London Fields)

You’ll likely spend a lot more time in Broadway Bookshop than you imagine, as there’s an entire basement you can’t see from the street, filled with fiction, local history, and kid’s books. They also have a small exhibition space where the art changes every 3 months or so.

3. Daunt Books (Marylebone)

Though Daunt Books has several locations, the Marylebone address is the clear place to be. This gorgeous shop is in an Edwardian building and boasts stained glass windows. Books are organized by country, rather than genre, which makes for a fun (and occasionally bamboozling) browsing experience.

100 year old eclectic bookshop Foyles in Charing Cross Road, Soho, London, UK.

4. Foyles (Charing Cross)

The world’s first purpose-built bookstore, Foyles covers every subject imaginable and also offers gifts, stationery, music, and magazines. This multi-level space in the heart of London boasts more than four miles of shelves across four floors, as well as a cafe, an auditorium, and a gallery.

This bus, in the bookshop Hatchards is called "Travels with Edward".

5. Hatchards (Picadilly)

The United Kingdom’s oldest surviving bookshop, shopping at Hatchards is an elegant and refined experience, with just a hint of whimsy — head up to the second-floor children’s section to see for yourself. During the annual Christmas Customer Evening, authors are on hand to mix and mingle with shoppers.

6. Heywood Hill (Mayfair)

Sophisticated and understated, Heywood Hill is located in a Georgian townhouse. Well known for antiquarian and children’s books, the store has held a royal warrant since 2011. Literary fans will be keen to know that novelist Nancy Mitford worked in the store during World War II.

Shop window displays the Hurlingham Books store close to Putney Bridge underground station in London. Fulham High Road.

7. Hurlingham Books (Fulham)

If you treat book shopping like a quest, Hurlingham Books is your kind of place. It is positively stacked from floor to ceiling, left to right, and what you’re seeing is just the tip of the iceberg. Over a million books are in their nearby warehouse.

8. John Sandoe Books (King’s Road)

Fans of John Sandoe’s often describe it as entering a Dickens novel. From the original tiny shop first established in 1957, the store has taken over two adjacent stores and is now stocked with more than 30,000 titles covering every surface — including the chairs!

9. Kirkdale Bookshop (Sydenham)

Part neighborhood bookshop and part cultural hub, Kirkdale hosts artwork and musical events. It offers a mix of new and secondhand books, prioritizing authors of color and LGBTQIA+ authors.

10. Liberia (Spitalfields)

In this bookshop founded by a tech entrepreneur, the vibe is decidedly analog. Mobile phones are banned! Yet Liberia’s design is very futuristic, with bright yellow shelves organized by theme to “maximize serendipity.”

Through the window of the London Review Cake Shop.

11. London Review Bookshop (Bloomsbury)

The London Review of Books is a literary periodical, but it also runs a cozy bookstore with a focus on classic fiction as well as new. They also operate a cake shop, which is absolutely delightful (and perhaps the reason this bookstore is so popular with writers).

12. Lutyens & Rubinstein (Notting Hill)

Chic, sleek, and well organized, Lutyens & Rubinstein is both bookshop and literary agency. They assembled their initial stock after surveying hundreds of readers (adults and kids), and, as such, every book here is essentially a personal recommendation.

13. Nomad Books (Fulham)

This casual, comfy space with squishy sofas is a favorite of writers and celebrities and has a strong community vibe with an excellent children’s section. Nomad Books has a good selection of French-language titles too.

A second hand book shop on Regent's Park Road, an attractive shopping street at the bottom of Primrose Hill, London.

14. Primrose Hill Books (Primrose Hill)

Hugely cozy, Primrose Hill Books is a family-run bookshop selling new and used titles and they occasionally host small literary events with big names. This is a good place to go to find works by local writers — some from right in their own neighborhood — and signed copies.

15. Review Bookshop (Peckham)

Review may just have bragging rights as London’s most dog-friendly bookstore. Pups are welcome to browse, the bookstore curates a list of dog-themed reads, and you can even submit a photo of your pooch to be featured on their website .

16. Waterstones Piccadilly (Piccadilly)

Admittedly, Waterstones Piccadilly is about as far from a cozy independent bookstore as you’ll find. Waterstones is a major chain, and its Piccadilly location is reputed to be Europe’s largest bookstore. But what it lacks in homey charm, it makes up for in amenities and titles. Located in central London, this is the perfect spot to hide away for a few hours when the rain hits.

Word on the Water: The Bookbarge Bookshop in London.

17. Word On The Water (King’s Cross)

If you’re going to make time for just one London bookstore, Word On The Water should be it. This new and used bookstore is actually a “book barge,” a 100+-year-old Dutch barge moored on Regent’s Canal. It’s quirky and fun and has bonafide literary chops, hosting musical performances and poetry slams.

18. Alice Through The Looking Glass (Covent Garden)

Alice Through The Looking Glass may just be the most special of all of London’s special interest booksellers. As the name suggests, it’s home to all things Alice , from pricey first editions to modern novelties. Browsers will also find a mini-museum and first editions of other childhood classics like the Harry Potter series. Located on Cecil Court, this store is part of “Bookseller’s Row,” the ideal place to browse for rare titles.

19. Arthur Probsthain (Bloomsbury)

This family-run bookstore has been in operation for over 100 years and specializes in titles related to global culture, specifically Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Their onsite tea room, Tea and Tattle , serves afternoon tea complete with scones and cakes and is also an excellent stop for an affordable lunch.

The famous 'Books for Cooks' bookshop and cooking school in Notting Hill, West London.

20. Books For Cooks (Notting Hill)

As the name suggests, Books for Cooks sells thousands of titles related to the culinary arts, from classic cookbooks to biographies. More than just booksellers, they have a tiny test kitchen where they put their inventory to the test. Nicknamed “the best smelling shop in the world,” you can even have lunch here.

21. Gay’s The Word (Bloomsbury)

The UK’s oldest LGBT bookshop sells new and used titles ranging from fiction to relationships to parenting. They’re also a hub of community activity, hosting discussion groups (including one that’s been around for 40 years!) and literary events.

22. Gosh! (Soho)

This amazing shop is dedicated to comics and graphic novels. It has titles for children and adults, including everything from mainstream selections to more obscure work from small-press publishers. They also stock rare used titles, signed books, and gifts.

23. Persephone (Bloomsbury)

Specializing in 20th-century female writers, Persephone only stocks what they themselves have printed. As such, they give a new lease of life to out-of-print writers. The books are just as nice to collect as they are to read, as they feature grey covers, bright linings, and forwards by famous authors.

24. Stanfords (Covent Garden)

One of the world’s premier travel bookstores, Stanfords is filled with travel guides, maps, literary adventures, cool gifts, and essential travel gear. Established in 1853, former customers include Florence Nightingale and Captain Robert Scott.

woman sitting in front of the famous Notting Hill bookshop, located at 13 Blenheim Crescent.

25. The Notting Hill Bookshop (Notting Hill)

Made famous by the 1999 film Notting Hill , this iconic bookstore with the bright blue sign does indeed specialize in travel books, though today The Notting Hill Bookshop has expanded to include general-interest titles (plus magnets with quotes from its namesake movie).

26. Travis & Emery (Covent Garden)

Another Cecil Court gem, Travis & Emery specializes in music, including rare, used, and collectible books, plus sheet music, playbills, photographs, and prints. Music fans will be equally enamored by the fact that Mozart once lived in this very building.

Here’s that map of London bookstores I found — but again, it only just scratches the surface.
Curious to hear what parents think about London’s bookshops for kids? This blog post offers an excellent roundup of London’s best bookstores for kids, perfect should you need to pick out a present for the little ones in your life.
There’s plenty more where this came from on TravelAwaits . Check out 9 Incredible Destinations For Book Lovers , 5 Of The Most Beautiful Libraries Around The World, and out literary sites section.

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

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Travel: Exploring London by rail

How to explore one of the greatest urban rail networks

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Exploring London by rail

A glass roof supported by cast iron pillars supports a glass-roofed train station

Exploring London by rail unlocks the best the metropolis has to offer. As one of the world’s great cities, London is a popular destination for American travelers and one of the planet’s most railroad-intensive places. It is populated by amazing Victorian stations that blend the finest examples of 19th-century railroad architecture with the latest in modern rail transport. The city is connected by overlapping networks of urban passenger railways that could take years to explore.

There are countless ways to approach London and endless paths to explore it. On this visit, my wife Kris and I arrived by plane at Heathrow — the largest of London’s airports. Three rail options connect Heathrow to central London. The Underground’s Piccadilly Line is the cheapest and slowest, offering direct access to myriad locations in the city, including popular stations such as Leicester Square, and connections with other Underground routes. The most recent rail link offers a more economical option. A branch of the Elizabeth Line — named for Queen Elizabeth II — uses the same rail link to Heathrow while serving the new Crossrail route reaching stations on the way from the airport in central London and points east. We chose the third option, the Heathrow Express.

Three modern green-painted electric locomotives side by side in a station

This train runs directly from Heathrow Terminal 5 to Paddington Station. This option minimized the difficulties of navigating the Underground system at rush hour with heavy luggage. From Paddington, we took a taxi to the Clermont Hotel at Charing Cross Station. This hotel is located at the heart of Central London and close to many attractions, like the West End theatre district. Charing Cross serves a variety of mainline rail services on the old Southern Region, including frequent service to Hastings. This proved convenient as we took a journey outside London to the lovely historic town Tunbridge Wells, where we traveled on the preserved Spa Valley Railway. Charing Cross is also served by the Northern and Bakerloo Underground lines. Nearby are the gardens and Thames River walk at Victoria Embankment — also the location of the busy Underground station serving District and Circle lines.

The river itself is served by several boat services, including Uber Boats by Thames Clippers that connect two dozen piers in the city. We were a short walk from Trafalgar Square, the location of the National Gallery. Admission is free and its world-class art collection includes my favorite railway painting: Rain, Steam and Speed by J.W.M. Turner.

Underground origins

The precursors to the London Underground began operation in the 1860s using steam locomotives. Electrification began in the 1890s. The network gradually expanded and evolved, and today it is among the most extensive, busiest, and fascinating rail-transit systems in the world, carrying as many as 4 million passengers daily. In addition to London’s countless rail tunnels, there are networks of subterranean foot passages that permit transfer between routes and grade-separated below-street connections.

The Underground was famously used as an air-raid shelter during the world wars. One of my favorite routes is the Circle Line, which makes a complete loop through Central London. We traveled clockwise from Embankment to South Kensington to visit the Victoria & Albert, Natural History, and Science museums — reached by direct passages from the Underground station. The museums are popular and admission is free. Advance booking is recommended to avoid long lines.

For industrial interest, I recommend visiting the Science Museum’s Energy Hall, where a variety of early stationary engines are displayed. Locomotive enthusiasts should visit the museum’s “Making the Modern World” display, which features significant early steam locomotives and a variety of antique, hand-crafted railroad models, including a scale broad gauge Erie Railroad 4-4-0.

Train-watching tips

Among my favorite London train-watching locations is the busy station at Clapham Junction (reachable using direct services from Victoria and Waterloo stations). If you want to see diesel-hauled freights on the move, consider visiting Kensington (Olympia) station which is reachable by either the Overground circular suburban rail network or a branch of the Underground.

Journey planning

Fare information can be found at Transport For London’s website . A traveler could easily make a hobby comparing fare payment options. In the past, I’ve bought paper Day Travel Cards or invested in an Oyster Card (electronic fare storage card using tap-on/tap off), but on this trip, we found it best to use our Visa Card with tap card function. Remember: each passenger should carry their own card, use that same card for each 24-hour period, and tap on when entering and tap off when exiting Underground stations.

Special thanks to Hassard Stacpoole for providing help with London travels.

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COMMENTS

London Store
Thursday: 9am - 7pm. Friday: 9am - 7pm. Saturday: 10am - 7pm. Sunday: 12noon - 6pm. We are the world's largest map and travel book retailer. Stanfords prides itself on the depth of its stock, sourced by experts, from all over the world. Our London store has been trading in the Covent Garden area since 1853.
Maps, Atlases, Travel Guides, Travel Books and Globes
The Age of Exploration Globe Ornament. £14.99. Add to Basket. 1. 2. 3. The World's Biggest and Best Map and Travel Bookshop. For over 160 years, explorers, travellers and adventurers have looked to us as map specialists to get them where they need to go, and back again.
Love and London: Travel Guides from Londoners
Visit London like you live here. Travel guides by Londoners who show you the local side of the city, that you won't find in traditional guide books. ... Menu. Shop; London Guides. London Itineraries; Casual Tourist Guides to London; London Spending Guide; Free London 101 Guide; Free London Trip Checklist; London Packing Guide; Articles + Advice ...
Daunt Books for Travellers
Daunt Books is an original Edwardian bookshop with long oak galleries and graceful skylights situated in Marylebone High Street, London, traditionally specialising in travel literature. We also have shops in Chelsea, Holland Park, Cheapside, Hampstead and Belsize Park. We stock a wide range of books online, including fiction, non-fiction and travel guides.
Away in London: Seven Dials
Away in London: Seven Dials. Seven Dials, come shop our lineup IRL! Our stores are also available for call and collect orders and courier services. To arrange for call and collect, please give us a call at 020 7681 0341 during our business hours, or drop us a note at [email protected].
35+ Best Things to Buy in London: Complete London Gift Guide
Welcome to my complete London gift guide, with all the best things to buy in London, from treats to makeup, souvenirs and food! I've talked a lot about cheap clothings shops in London, and other beautiful bookshops and stationery shops, and I wanted to do a big round up - from a local.. I moved to London in 2019, and I have been shopping more than I care to admit.
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BEST FOR. Travel Agencies in London. 6. Kuoni. Kuoni: Kuoni is a luxury travel agency offering tailor-made holidays to destinations worldwide. With over 100 years of experience, Kuoni prides itself on its destination experts, exclusive offerings, and high-end service. CONTACT DETAILS. +442085190310. WEBSITE.
Where to shop in London
The shop is divided into rooms including Focus and Immersive, where installations and pop-up events take place on rotation. Address: Browns East, 21 Club Row, London, E2 7EY. Telephone: +44 207 729 2666. Website: brownsfashion.com. Nearest Tube: Old Street, or Shoreditch Overground.
The 10 Best London Bookshops to Visit
1 | Stanfords Travel Bookshop. Stanford Travel Bookshop has to be our favourite bookshop in London. Established in 1853, it's a treasure trove of everything travel! You can buy a lot of travel related at Stanfords beyond books. They have maps, globes, gifts, stationery and most surprisingly, a cafe selling reasonably priced coffee for central ...
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Amazing London shops. 1. Daunt Books Marylebone. Shopping. Bookshops. Marylebone. Best for: a vast array of page-turners. One of London's most charming bookshops, Daunt's Marylebone flagship ...
The ultimate guide to shopping in London
3. ICON Outlet, the 02. This is the spot for bargain hunters with taste. Part of the O2 Arena in North Greenwich, this discounted outlet offers up to 70% off mid-luxury brands such as Aspinal of London, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Levi's.
40 Essential London Travel Tips For First-Timers
12. London is huge. Explore by neighborhood to avoid wasting time and money on transportation. London is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the world, covering an area of over 600 square miles. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for visitors to know where to start.
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The Shard. Western Europe's tallest building at 309.6 metres, or 1,016 feet, high, The Shard houses London's first Shangri-la hotel, private apartments, offices and three high-end restaurants ...
TUI Holiday Store, 75 High Road, London
Find and book your next holiday at the TUI Holiday Store in London. Whether you've already booked online and need a helping hand in-store, or thinking about your next holiday, our Travel Experts are on hand to take the hassle out of planning your trip. We package everything, from beach holidays and city breaks to globe-trotting TUI Tours, Lakes & Mountains getaways and Crystal Ski Holidays.
Where To Shop In London: 10 Best Shopping Areas for Tourists and
10. Covent Garden. Shopping in London - Covent Garden. Pic credit: Fiach (Pixabay) Covent Garden is mainly known for theatres and great restaurants. However, this area boasts of some upmarket brands like Mulberry, Tom Ford, Paul Smith, Bucherer and a quaint shopping mall which used to be an apple market in the 1830's.
Shopping in London: The Complete Guide
mikeinlondon/Getty Images. Located in the heart of London's West End (near Oxford Street), Carnaby Street is a tucked-away, pretty street packed with a mix of big names (like Levi's and The North Face) and independent shops (like bespoke tailor Mark Powell and indie fashion label The Ragged Priest). There's also a good collection of restaurants and bars.
Best shopping destinations in London
A post shared by Regent Street W1 (@regentstreetw1) Stroll through one of the most elegant shopping streets in London, Regent Street, which offers a good range of mid-priced fashion stores alongside some of the city's oldest and most famous shops. Get lost on the many floors full of toys and games in kids' haven Hamleys.
Welcome! Buy London travel tickets
Choose from a Visitor Oyster card for pay as you go travel, a paper Day Travelcard to enjoy unlimited travel or a Group Day London Travelcard if you are travelling in group. All three tickets give you the freedom to explore London using the city's integrated public transport network. Buses cost just £1.75 for unlimited journeys within a hour ...
16 Best Things to Buy in London
One of the best places to buy this chocolate in London is the renowned shop in the Royal Arcade in Mayfair. 4. Harrods Coffee in an exclusive tin. ... Stanfords is the world's largest map and travel book shop, located in Covent Garden, London. For nearly two centuries, it has been a favorite of explorers and adventurers. There is a wide ...
8 Best Places To Shop In London
Famous brands & stores in Knightsbridge: Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Sloane Street, Topshop, Tommy Hilfiger. Directions: Google Maps. 6. Covent Garden. Covent Garden is the famous shopping and theatre district of London. This vibrant neighbourhood is a good place for tourists to shop and explore.
Brilliant independent bookshops in London
While the shop is temporarily closed, the team are still on social media offering recommendations and posting out any books they have in stock. Address: Burley Fisher Books, 400 Kingsland Road, London E8 4AA. Telephone: +44 20 7249 2263. Website: burleyfisherbooks.com. Twitter: @burleyfisher.
The Ultimate London Shopping Guide 2024
27. April 2023. 149 ratings. For many visitors to London, a shopping expedition is an absolute must! London is, after all, THE shopping destination par excellence. There's no better place than this metropolis for keeping up with the latest fashion trends! And it's no coincidence that London hosts the Fashion Week twice a year.
15 BEST Bookshops In London [By A Local Bookworm!]
London's best bookshops. 1. Foyles. ‍ Location: Charing Cross road. ‍. Opening times: Monday-Saturday 9am until 9pm and 11:30 until 6pm on Sundays. I couldn't make this list without mentioning what is probably London's most famous bookshop, Foyles, specifically the one on Charing Cross road. This bookstore is absolutely huge, stretching ...
[2023 GUIDE] The 17 Best Places for Shopping in London
14. Soho: Known for its trendy fashion, vintage shops and alternative boutiques. Soho is a trendy neighborhood in London known for its diverse shopping scene. It offers a wide range of fashion brands such as high-street, designer, vintage, independent designers, alternative, and streetwear fashion.
The Ultimate Guide to London's Mayfair
Find must-do London attractions and lesser-known sights amongst Mayfair's maze of elegant streets. Check out: - Handel Hendrix House: A quirky museum dedicated to the former residents of 23 and 25 Brook Street: guitarist Jimi Hendrix and baroque composer George Frideric Handel. You'll see the former homes of both musicians, hear their music ...
Best London shopping streets & shops that tourists love
London shopping. Recognized internationally as one of the world's most important fashion capitals,London is jam-packed with designer shops, luxury department stores, exclusive shopping streets and famous markets.. 1) New Bond Street For Luxury shopping that rivals Paris. New Bond Street is an 800-metre long street in London which links Piccadilly to the famous Oxford Street.
31 Best Gifts from London Recommended by a Local
Umbrella from James Smith & Sons. Umbrellas have to be one of the most iconic things to buy in London. And there's no better place to pick one up than James Smith & Sons. Founded in 1830, they sell quality British crafted umbrellas and walking sticks with stunning carved details.
15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting London
Navigate The City Like A Local. Learning to navigate the city like a local is yet another travel hack to keep in mind when strolling about London on foot. The easiest way for visitors to take to ...
26 Unique Bookstores To Visit In London
1. Book Mongers (Brixton) One of London's best bookstores was founded by an American, Patrick Kelly. Dedicated fans of Book Mongers love the used bookstore's cramped but well-organized shelves. Keep an eye out for Popeye, the scrappy resident shop cat, and be sure to ask for "Popeye's Picks" when browsing the books. 2.
Travel: Exploring London by rail
The best place to start exploring London by rail is Paddington, the terminal station for Isambard K. Brunel's broad-gauge Great Western Railway (built with tracks just over 7 feet wide). Opened in 1854 to replace an earlier station, its great shed was inspired by Joseph Paxton's Crystal Palace of 1851. Today, the historic station serves ...