THE MOST FAMOUS SHOPPING SPOTS IN LONDON

London is often viewed as one of the shopping capitals of the world. The city has it all: giant department stores, bustling markets, mega malls, thrift shops, quirky boutiques and luxury designer outlets. Yes, London prices can be expensive, but even just browsing its shops and stalls can be a fun experience. Just where are the most famous shopping spots in London? This post takes a look at 7 iconic locations.

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Oxford Street

Oxford Street is the most famous shopping street in London. This is where you’ll find historic upscale department store Selfridges as well as the Disney Store and John Lewis’s flagship store. Shops on Oxford Street are open from 8pm to 10pm allowing you to browse shops into the night. At Xmas, this street is known for its dazzling festive window displays (Oxford Street also connects to Hyde Park where Winter Wonderland is held throughout December). Just be prepared for the crowds when visiting Oxford Street - it’s arguably the busiest street in the city!

Regent Street

Intersecting Oxford Street is the equally famous and glamorous Regent Street. This is home to the renowned kid’s department store, Hamleys - a great place to visit with kids that has multiple floors packed with toys. Flagship stores for brands like Gymshark, Fabletics and Mulberry can be found here too. As with Oxford Street, the shops are open late and there are some stunning Xmas displays. Drop your bags off at the Oxford circus luggage storage for convenient access to both Regent Street and Oxford Street. 

Piccadilly Circus

At the end of Regent Street is Piccadilly Circus. This busy junction is known for its statue of Eros and numerous video billboards. There are also several iconic shops in and around Piccadilly Circus that are a major attraction. Founded in 1707, the luxurious department store Fortnum & Mason is somewhere you’ll want to explore (even if you can’t afford to buy anything). Kingdom of Treats and M&M World are meanwhile some of the biggest sweet stores in London. Try to avoid peak times when visiting Piccadilly Circus - mornings and weekdays can be the best times. 

Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a bustling area in the West End of London that contains a mix of theatres, restaurants, pubs and shops. In the centre you’ll find the Covent Garden shopping centre next to the area’s famous piazza where live street entertainment can often be found. There is a mix of boutique 

 and designer stores in this area spread out across its many streets. Some famous shops in the area include The Moomin Shop, giant comic bookstore Forbidden Planet and wizard-themed store House of Spells. If you’re visiting from Covent Garden tube station, be wary of the notorious 193-step staircase to get out (there are lifts if you don’t fancy taking the stairs!). 

Camden Town

Camden Town's sprawling market is a destination in London everyone needs to experience. Here you’ll find a bustling maze of vintage clothes stalls, vinyl stalls, food stalls and craft stalls. Camden Town attracts many eccentric characters and has many weird and wonderful shops that reflect its chaotic energy. Examples include rubber duck store Duck World, vintage paradise Soso Retro, and cyberpunk-themed rave store Cyberdog. You’ll also find many famous pubs in Camden Town, as well as an array of places to eat. 

Portobello Road

Famously sung about in Bedknobs and Broomsticks, Portobello Road is a vibrant street running all the way through Notting Hill. It’s known mostly for its range of antique stores and stalls, that specialise in everything from picture frames to old books. There are also many arts and crafts vendors along here, as well as a range of food stalls. Visit this street on a Saturday to see the street market in full swing. If you’d prefer to dodge the crowds, a weekday may be a better time to visit. It’s worth noting that this is one of many great shopping spots in Notting Hill. 

Westfield London

Westfield London is located in Shepherd’s Bush and it is one of the biggest malls in Europe. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to stores here - from luxury high end stores to regular fashion outlets, there are over 300 shops located in this mall. You’ll also find many restaurants here to stop for lunch, as well as activities ranging from bowling to mini golf. There is a large car park here that you can pay for using the W-Park app, or you can travel here via bus or train.