Shopping in London

London is one of the world capitals for shopping and for fashion retail. All of the areas of London have something in terms of shopping. If you fancy shopping for classy, high-end designer fashion, the city has all of that and more. If you want to buy London souvenirs or antiques, there are plenty of flea markets and shops that carry such things. So get out and enjoy some London shopping.

Where to shop?

All the major shopping areas in London feature a wide range of things to buy. Indeed the type of shops in London varies from collectible stores to pricey designer clothing. So before setting out on your shopping excursion, be sure to figure out what kind of shopping you want to do. Also, consider your cash. Shopping in London can be very expensive. If maintaining a budget is vital, consider only buying things like unique London souvenirs, collectibles and cool gifts that can only be bought in London.

Do you want the flea market experience? If so, the markets in Camden, North London are great. Do you want to purchase fancy purses and custom made jewellery? Then head to the bustling area of Oxford Street, where over 300 stores have planted their business. Do you want to check out specialty shops? Stores like The Beatles Store, Cybercandy and the science fiction store Forbidden Planet never fail to satisfy those interested in such. Or do you want to shop for gourmet foods and drinks? Then consider visiting stores like the Twinnings Tea Shop and Museum, The Spice Shop and the delightful Fortnum and Mason Food Hall.

For those visiting London with a family, shopping at some of the more popular souvenir stores like Click Souvenirs and Fancy That of London is a great plan. Buying this memorabilia will give you and your family the opportunity to bring classic London souvenirs back home.

Note that many gift shops are located at or near the major sights in London. After visiting landmarks like Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral or Buckingham Palace, you can stop and buy something to remember the famous sight by.

London Shopping Areas

Located in central London, Oxford Street is the most popular place to shop. Using any form of London transportation to get here is simple. And with hundreds of shops, finding something you like is just as easy. Think of every well know department store you know. And it’s here. Note that it does get pretty crowded around mid-day here.

Shopping in Soho and Chinatown offers the opportunity to pick up Chinese antiques, products and foods. Red lanterns, artwork and silk line the streets and shops. A good deal of London hotels are also nearby. And obviously a lot of good Chinese cuisine and Asian fusion food is nearby too.

Some good shopping at Regent Street can be experienced as well. Located in the West End, stores like Lacoste, Apple and the Brooks Brothers are all here. For those on a budget, note that there are many shops here that are mid-range in terms of price. Stores to buy elegant dresses saturate the area. And classic British gent shops are around here as well. Check out quality dress shoes at John Lobb or buy a nice collared shirt at Ted Baker.

The shopping at Carnaby Street rose to fame alongside the groovy tunes of the 1960’s. To this day, it is still a popular choice for tourists to visit for shopping. Everything from children’s fashion to fitness supplies can be bought here. There are a total of 67 independent boutiques, 44 independent concept stores and 32 global fashion brands that do business within this area. It is on the cutting edge in the scene of fashion. Women’s stores abound. Bexy Lady, Aqua and Miss Sixty are a few that will catch your eyes.  

Other popular shopping areas include the Westfield shopping centre, Convent Garden and the sleek Canary Wharf. Notting Hill is full of quirky shops, eco-friendly stores, unique antiques and artwork. If you want a men's or women's suit tailored to fit you, go to Savile Row, where customers leave looking like a true gent or lady.

Combining Shopping with Other Activities

Many of these shopping areas feature some of the best of London dining. Take a break and enjoy a meal while you are out shopping. Cafes abound around these areas too. Take a moment to enjoy tea time in London. Many are near tourist attractions like parks and museums. Some of the best of London nightlife is within a stone’s throw of shopping centres as well.

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