If shopping is your passion, London is definitely a city where you can indulge yourself. Whether your budget allows for a bit of luxury or only for something that’s a little less up-market, you’re sure to find something that suits your fancy (and budget) in this illustrious city.
More to do in London: Explore the British Museum | Day Trips | How to Ride the Tube
Harrods
A shopping trip to London would not be the same if you didn’t stop at Harrods. With 330 departments, you’ll find most everything at this store which sits on five acres and has more than a million square feet of space. Plan to spend the day!
Market stalls at Camden Town
For a more, shall we say, interesting shopping spree, head to Camden for a goth experience. Though the area has fallen a bit out of favor over the years, you can shop for leather goods here or you simply go to people watch. You won’t be disappointed in either.
Portobello Road
Head over to Portobello Road in Notting Hill where you’ll find a wide variety of shops – everything from organic food to vintage clothing. And don’t miss the Sunday market, where mile-long Portobello Road becomes filled with vendors selling their wares. Another great place for people-watching even if you don’t spend a pound.
Soho
An area of the city slowly changing is Soho. Where once stood sex shops, you’ll now find designer shops and clothing exchanges like Bang Bang. Carnaby Street in Soho was the birth place of Mod and is still known as a place for cutting edge fashion.
Grays Antique Market
If antiques are your thing, you can’t miss a stop at Gray’s Antiques where you’ll find two floors of wonderful finds from 200 antique dealers.
Bond Street
Well known around the world as a shopping Mecca, Bond Street is in the Mayfair neighborhood and has some of the most elegant and finest shops in the city. Here you’ll find all the top brands including Tiffany & Co., Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada. Bring your credit card!
Spitalfields Market
After reconstruction in 2005, Spitalfields has reopened as a destination for locals and tourists. It’s filled with treasures of all types including housewares, antiques and clothing. But the area also has public art and events so it’s not all about the shopping.
Oxford Street
The main shopping area for the West End, Oxford Street is choc-o-block with budget clothing, designer shops, and international restaurants. Take your time to soak up the ambiance of the area.
Regent Street
A great place to shop if you’re looking for mid-to-higher end shops. Affordable luxury is the name of the game here. Treat yourself to something from a name-brand shop or find a traditionally English shop. Either way, your money will be well spent.
For the shopaholic, plan to spend at least a few days in London just for the shopping. You might exhaust yourself, but you’ll love every minute of it.
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Photo credit:
Harrods – Rodney
Soho Sex Shop – konstantin