From Harrods to Primark, there's a shop for everyone in London
"Shopping in London is an experience like no other. Whether you are a seasoned shopper on the hunt for something special or simply out for a browse, the variety of shops in London is unsurpassed.
From luxury brands to budget chains and everything in between, the best shops in London offer a wide variety of merchandise that can tempt even the least keen shopper to want to start exploring.
Knowing where to shop in London can be a challenge as each shopping district offers a unique experience. The best shopping in London is truly spread across the city but here are just some shops that are the best of the best and worth visiting if they cross your shopping path."
For an experience of true British tradition – inside and out – Liberty Department Store is the single destination. The Tudor exterior sets the tone for the wonders inside. For fans of floral prints, Liberty is unsurpassed for their original textile and patterns, which they make into everything from trays and makeup bags to aprons and blouses.
For a one-stop shop full of world-class fashion, accessories and homeware at almost every price point, visit Selfridges and be spoilt for choice. From a 35,000sq-ft shoe department and rooftop bar to outposts of the best of London’s high street brands – all styled in an open-plan contemporary setting – Selfridges has a little bit of something for every shopper.
The world-famous department store has earned that title from being a luxury destination for celebrities and royalty from around the globe. The opulent interior, that is almost as much a museum as it is a store, is home to the best in high-end fashion and accessories, exclusive homeware and gifts, and an extensive food hall that busily serves locals and visitors alike with the most decadent of treats.
Internationally recognised as the store that reinvented the British high street, TopShop, and its male equivalent TopMan, has recently popped up across the globe, but nothing compares to the flagship location at Oxford Circus in the heart of London. Set over five floors (three for women and two for men), the hottest trends and slickest styles fresh off the catwalks are available at reasonable prices.
From numerous styles of wrapping paper and greetings cards to every art supply imaginable, Paperchase is the destination for creativity and fun. While there are small outposts across the city, it’s the flagship location on London’s Tottenham Court Road that is truly the arts and crafts mothership. Spread over three floors, it’s the one stop shop for anyone who loves the world of stationery and design.
Primark is a budget fashion shoppers’ paradise. From everyday basics to more experimental and high fashion looks for both men and women, everything across the massive retail locations – one at each end of Oxford Street – is at low prices but set in an atmosphere of vibrant style.
Working hard to keep the indie record store scene alive by offering the ultimate in selection and service, Rough Trade is the destination for those who want to add some serious credentials to their music collection. With locations at each end of London (one east and one west), expert staff and free in-store gigs and author events, time your visit right for a proper music experience.
In the heart of London’s Regent Street is the flagship location of the ultimate British toy store – Hamleys. Evident from the delighted crowds on the street outside this world-famous location, this unmissable seven-floor toy store is a treat for children, perfect for presents, and sure to bring smiles to all ages!
Enter the Covent Garden store of Orla Kiely and be immediately charmed by racks and walls of playful patterns that the Irish mistress of print has become world-famous for. From interiors, brightly printed appliqued bags and accessories to a sophisticated feminine collection of womenswear, this shopping experience is a feast for the eyes and for the pocketbook.
