A place where there is, quite literally, something for everyone.
Paying a visit to London wouldn’t be complete without a bit of retail therapy. In fact, it’s one of the most visited shopping destinations in the world. A place where there is, quite literally, something for everyone.
Cosmopolitan, dynamic and diverse, spending a day in the “Big Smoke” is never enough. Why? Because from art and design to fashion and food, it’s simply teeming with imaginative masterminds hell-bent on giving us, the shopper, a multi-sensory experience that’s nothing short of sensational.
And, if that’s not motivation enough, these 3 facts will add to the magic:
- With over 300 000 gardens, the Thames and the most extraordinary architecture, London is a feast for sore eyes.
- Pubs and eateries are absolutely everywhere, so you definitely won’t starve.
- If you run out of steam, most of the gallery and museum offerings are free.
But on to the shopping! And we’re not just talking about clothes here, we want you to explore EVERYTHING.
1. Fashion
London hosts Fashion Week twice a year, so it goes without saying that the planet’s best clothing and accessories are in abundance. Whether you’re after Bond Street’s haute couture or Oxford Street’s mish-mash of bargain buys and designer apparel, this eclectic city has it all.
2. Markets
Chock-a-block with everything from arts and crafts to jewellery and collectables, London markets are the place to be. Visit Greenwich if you’re into antiques, Camden for eccentric funk, the Borough for mouth-watering street food and Petticoat Lane for anything Vintage.
3. Perfumeries
Yes, Nina Ricci and Guerlain produce scent sensations, but London is home to an array of bespoke perfumeries that will have you second guessing your first choice. Book a consultation at the Experimental Perfume Club and have something designed just for you. Or pop into Perfumer H or Creed (which was a hot favourite of Queen Victoria’s) for an exclusive experience.
4. Furniture
Home to the London Design Festival, it’s no wonder this metropolis offers an array of luxury furniture outlets that will satisfy any style, taste or genre. With top British brands like Tom Dixon in play, why not visit one of the City’s luxury furniture showrooms, like FCI London, and treat yourself to a guided tour.
5. Fine food
Up for something gourmet? Well, from the fabulously flamboyant food halls of Fortnum and Mason and Harrods to delightful little gems like Kusmi Tea, Luigi’s Delicatessen and the London Borough of Jam, the word “bland” will never cross your lips again.
6. Toys
Don’t forget to pick up something for the kids. From gorgeous plushies to dolls and action figures, there’s no place more magical than Hamleys. But don’t rule out Benjamin Pollock’s delightful historic toyshop, the Orc’s Nest for brilliant board games and, if you’re an addict, the LEGO store.
7. Fresh flowers
Every Sunday from 08h00 – 15h00, Colombia Road Flower Market is in full bloom. Get there early for the freshest bouquets or later in the day for a jolly good bargain. For flowers all week, you’ll love the Battersea Flower Station. Or try the elite Rebel Rebel in Hackney – they pander to the likes of Dior and run bespoke workshops in both London and Tuscany.
As you can see, there’s no end to London’s shopping opportunities. So pack a bag today, why don’t you… it’ll be worth every penny.
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
