Top 10: London Shopping Districts
Published on Thursday 18th March, 2.07pm, Written by Kelly Pentland
A trip to London is an exciting and exhilarating adventure.
Not only can you see a great West End show and explore top attractions like the London Eye, Madame Tussauds and The Globe Theatre, but you can refresh your wardrobe by treating yourself to an afternoon trawling London’s swanky shopping districts.
So, where are the best places in the city to shop? Here are our top 10 suggestions for a great shopping trip in the big city.
1. Oxford Street
Not far from the London Palladium, Oxford Street is a great place for a spot of shopping before a fun night out at the theatre to see the smash-hit musical Sister Act the musical. Wander down one of the city’s most famous streets and enjoy the 300 shops available. With virtually every well-known high street store imaginable including the world-famous Selfridges, Oxford Street is the place to be to find the latest fashion trends. Located near Oxford Circus tube line, the rest of London is within easy access including the West End just two stops away.
2. Regent Street
Regent Street (just off Oxford Street) is also a great place to shop and is home to some of the city’s oldest and most famous shops including Hamleys, Jaeger and Hugo Boss. Within walking distance of the London Palladium and a stone’s throw away from the fascinating Soho district, Regent Street is a vibrant part of London. Jump on a tube at Piccadilly Circus for quick access across the city.
3. Jermyn Street
Just off Regent Street lies Jermyn Street. With a reputation for suiting and booting gentlemen throughout the centuries, Jermyn Street is still world-famous for its shirt makers. A great place for men to buy high-quality attire, Jermyn Street also caters for women, selling spectacular clothes and jewellery. Two arcades can be found just off the street and house wonderful small boutiques. After shopping, head back to Piccadilly Circus to continue your city break adventure.
4. Burlington Arcade
The two arcades off Jermyn Street lead to the fabulously historic Burlington Arcade. Britain’s very first shopping centre, Burlington Arcade opened in 1819 and is today viewed as a masterpiece. It is the longest covered shopping street in England and home to some of the world’s most luxurious clothes and accessories, from jewellery and watches to leather goods. The service throughout is impeccable and the staff are full of specialist knowledge. With your goods in tow, grab a bite to eat in a nearby restaurant (Brown’s Hotel, Fishworks or even The Ritz if you have the cash) or get a tube from Green Park and visit other areas of the city including the Tower of London and Kensington Palace.
5. Bond Street
A rather swanky shopping district, Bond Street is the place to be if you have the money or a penchant for designer wear. With some of the world’s best designer stores including Chanel, D&G, DKNY, Gucci and Louis Vuitton, it’s no wonder the stars tend to come to this part of the city. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities and enjoy a thoroughly glam day.
6. Knightsbridge
The shopping place of the fashion elite, Knightsbridge is another area of London home to fabulous designer and trendy shops including world famous stores Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Frequented by celebrities and the world’s most prestigious fashion icons, Knightsbridge is the place to go for the latest fashion trends. Beautiful, old-fashioned buildings make up the area giving Knightsbridge a high-quality look and feel. Knightsbridge tube station will take you to other areas of the city if you fancy a break from shopping and would prefer a relaxing flight on the London Eye, or a trip to the London Aquarium.
7. Carnaby Street
Carnaby Street is one of London’s trendiest shopping districts. You will find everything here from urban and street clothing to unique shoes and designer boutiques. The street itself was highly prominent in the cultural revolution of the 60s and prides itself on its exciting fashion trends. Carnaby Street is just a 10 minute walk away from London’s West End and is another great place to explore before enjoying a top London show. The Oxford Circus tube station is just a short walk away too.
8. Covent Garden
An exciting piazza featuring an glass-covered indoor market, bars and restaurants and impressive street performers, Covent Garden is one of London’s treasures. Explore the quirky shops nestled in the market and even pick up some delicious gourmet food. Covent Garden is a really exciting shopping experience and it too is within walking distance of London’s West End. Enjoy a spot of shopping before a wonderful night out at one of London’s beautiful theatres including the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and the Lyceum Theatre. Covent Garden is located near Charing Cross for easy access to the rest of London.
9. Notting Hill
A well-known area of London, Notting Hill is visited by people from all around the world in search of unusual or vintage clothing and rare antiques. The area is also extremely well-known for its famous market which opens along Portobello Road and stretches for two miles. Selling everything from fruit and veg to antiques, the market is a bustling, unique part of the city and well worth a visit. Located near Notting Hill Gate tube station, the rest of the city is easily accessible.
10. Tottenham Court Road
Tottenham Court Road is the perfect shopping destination for electronics and gadget lovers. There is even a shop called The Gadget Shop great for unique gifts and souvenirs. Located in the heart of the capital, the road is also very near to Oxford Street and theatres including the Prince Edward Theatre, The Phoenix and The Dominion Theatre.
There are many wonderful shopping areas in London suited to all kinds of people. If it is vintage clothing you are looking for, or fancy accessories, there will be something for you in London. The perfect way to spend the day before a night out at the theatre or before heading to a fun London attraction, London is a great destination for a shopping trip.
