travel shop in london

Hi, I'm Candace

Candace Abroad

A London & Travel Blog

London , London Film Tours · August 16, 2023

A Visit to Notting Hill Travel Bookshop: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Table of Contents

Looking to recreate your favorite rom-com scene? Here’s my personalized guide and everything you need to know for a visit to the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop. Enjoy!

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.

We all know the scene. Julia Roberts slow pursue through the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop. Hugh Grant’s infamous eye-turn and blushed slew of book recommendations. The rom-com that hit London lovers by storm has all the nostalgia of Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts romance tucked into a quaint bookshop, in you guessed it, Notting Hill.

If you’re a Notting Hill fan like me and looking to turn your on-screen vicarious romance into real life — the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop is calling your name. Rom-com lovers have flocked from all parts of London (and abroad) to relive the Notting Hill scene. And if you’re reading this, I’m guessing you want to do the same.

Without further ado here’s everything you need to know about the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop. And to add to your Notting Hill obsession, I’ve popped in some of the movie quotes throughout the blog (definitely not a superfan).

William : I live in Notting Hill. You live in Beverly Hills. Everyone in the world knows who you are, my mother has trouble remembering my name. Anna Scott : I’m also just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her. Notting Hill

Where is the Travel Bookshop in Notting Hill?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Notting Hill Bookshop (@nottinghillbookshop)

The travel bookshop sits pretty right off of Portobello Road at 13 Blenheim Crescent, London W11 2EE. The exteriors are hard to miss, with bright blue exteriors that match Hugh Grant’s infamous blue door (located at 280 Westbourne Park Road).

How to get to the Travel Bookshop in Notting Hill, London

The Travel bookshop in Notting Hill is around a 10-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate station. One of the easiest ways to reach Notting Hill Gate (or anywhere in London really) is Citymapper. I rely on it endlessly and if you just pop in “Notting Hill Gate” you’ll get there without a hitch.

William : Would you like something to eat? Something to nibble? Apricots, soaked in honey? Quite why, no one knows, because it stops them tasting like apricots and makes them taste like honey… and if you wanted honey, you could just… buy honey. Instead of apricots. But nevertheless they’re yours if you want them. Notting Hill

When to go & What to buy at the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop

Of course, due to it’s popularity, any time you go has the potential to be crowded. But I’d suggest going in the morning and pairing it a brunch in Notting Hill (Farm Girl Cafe if you’re wondering).

Although the shop originally exclusively sold travel books, they expanded into nearly every area of publishing (though travel is still the main focus). They’ve also got tons of beautiful gifts to get your hands on if you’ve got a super fan waiting at home. So in addition to recapturing your movie moments — I’d definitely suggest buying something while you’re here.

Notting Hill Bookshop Scene

I’m assuming if you’re reading this blog that you’re just as well-versed in this rom-com as I am. But just in case — here’s the bookshop scene. In the movie, Will (Hugh Grant) works in the travel bookshop where he meets Anna (Julia Roberts) a Hollywood Actress from America visiting London for a movie shoot.

As all rom-com’s go, one thing leads to another, they fall in love, the end. But there’s something about the movie and the bookshop that’s timeless. And if you’re a London lover like me, a visit to the Notting Hills Travel Bookshop will give you all the London feels again.

Anna Scott: You know what they say about men with big feet William : No, I don’t, actually. What’s that ? Anna Scott : Big feet… large shoes. Notting Hill

A Quick History on the Travel Bookshop, Notting Hill

Before the bookshops claim to fame the Notting Hill Travel Bookshop was just a charming local bookshop on the streets of West London. The director Richard Curtis used to pass the bookshop all the time, promptly inspiring him for the set of the film. But when asked to use it as the filming location for Notting Hill…they refused. So he ended up recreating the bookshop on set, and the rest is history.

Although the filming location took place elsewhere the location was quickly recognized as the heart-throb central it was — and thousands of fans flocked to the shop each year for their Notting Hill moment (me very included).

The store ended up closing in 2011 (after a long campaign to keep it going ). However it was bought by The Book Warehouse after the Travel Bookshop owner Simon Gaul realized his children weren’t interested in continuing the family-business. But the Book Warehouse made sure to keep the spirit of rom-com alive with the Notting Hill odes and the name, The Notting Hill Bookshop.

To clear up some quick confusion for my movie fans — the bookshop in the actual film is called “The Travel Book Company”, but the real store it’s based on was called “The Travel Bookshop”. Glad we got that out the way.

Anna Scott: Can I stay for a while? William: You can stay forever. Notting Hill

Proposals at the Bookshop

My rom-com heart melted when I found out just how many proposals take place in the bookshop! The owners told press that many couples come to drop on one knee and they even help with the planning process sometimes to make it extra special (definitely not giving you ideas).

But if you can believe it — people really do come from as far as America (hey!) to Asia and Australia to make their Notting Hill I do’s.

Favorite heart-melting stories include….

A couple from China having their wedding photos taken inside the shop (goals)
A German couple combining Notting Hill and Harry Potter sneaking an engagement ring inside one of the books (I know he got brownie points)
An American couple coming back to the Notting Hill bookshop for their wedding anniversary (goals…and anniversary goals!)

Oh God, this is one of those key moments in life, when it’s possible you can be really, genuinely cool – and I’m failing 100%. I absolutely and totally and utterly adore you and I think you’re the most beautiful woman in the world and more importantly I genuinely believe and have believed for some time now that we can be best friends. What do YOU think? Honey, Notting Hill

Exploring the Notting Hill Area + Other Film Locations (Market Scene, Blue Door etc.)

If you’re in the Notting Hill area it’d be a waste not to see the rest of the area. Personally, I suggest taking advantage of Portobello Market and popping into a pub like the Churchill Arms. And of course, grabbing a fresh read at the travel bookshop (you know… “just in case browsing turned to buying” ).

If the Notting Hill fandom moves ya, here are all the addresses of the film locations for the movie.

Now if you’ll excuse me I’m off to watch Notting Hill for the 11th time.

Be sure to read up on the best things to do in Notting Hill before your visit —and if love Notting Hill, you’re sure to love Primrose Hill too!

Love London?

Subscribe for the latest London travel content and fall in love with the city all over again — straight to your lovely inbox.

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

Notting Hill Houses Shot with Canon 5D IV Camera

Latest from Instagram

Follow @candaceabroad

Moving to London? Check out my Digital Moving Guide!

join the monthly newsletter

Subscribe for itinerary inspiration, travel inspo & exclusive content straight to your lovely inbox.

Affiliate disclosure

Theme by 17th Avenue Designs

Disclosure & Privacy Policy

Signed Editions
Book Bundles
Books by Country
New in hardback
New in paperback
Crime & thriller
See all fiction…
New in Paperback
Architecture
Art & Photography
Biography & Memoir
Food writing
Home & Garden
Mind, Body & Spirit
Music & Entertainment
Nature & Environment
Science & Technology
Travel Guides
Travel Writing
See all non-fiction…
Baby & Toddler
Children’s Jigsaws
Confident Readers
Early Readers
Games & Jigsaws
Non-fiction
Young Adult
See all children’s…
Buy a subscription
My Subscription
Gift Certificates
Library Building
Wedding & Gift Lists
Daunt Books Publishing
Buy a Subscription

Non-Fiction

In the children’s section.

Daunt Books Subscriptions

Over the course of a year, the Daunt Books subscriber receives a new title every month, according to their tastes; they are invited to tailor the service to their preferences, making it the ideal bespoke present.

Daunt Books Bags

Our famous cotton and canvas tote bags, available in a range of colours and now in children's sizes

Sign me up to the Daunt Books newsletter

Get the latest news about our talks and events.

Talks & Events at Daunt Books

Madhumita Murgia in conversation with Azeem Azhar

Wednesday 24th April

Daunt Books Marylebone

Shami Chakrabarti in conversation with Rachel Holmes

Tuesday 21st May

Giuliano da Empoli

Thursday 23rd May

Helen Garner in conversation with Rachel Cooke

Tuesday 28th May

Jhumpa Lahiri in conversation with Fiammetta Rocco

Wednesday 29th May

Wedding lists

We are delighted to offer a comprehensive wedding list service at Daunt Books, from a consultation with one of our booksellers, to delivering a beautifully wrapped and dedicated selection of books.

Library building

We are pleased to provide a bespoke library building service for both private and commercial clients. We will take care of the whole process, from consultation with an experienced bookseller to assistance with delivery and shelving.

Follow Daunt Books on Instagram

Privacy Overview

Visit London

Like you live here., tips for your london trip, from expert londoners., avoid the overhyped and overdone..

Festive Season Guides
London Area Guides

London Food and Drink

London planning tips.

London Transport
London with Kids
Things to Do in London
Top London Tours and Experiences

Where to Stay in London

See all london articles, ☑️ we’ve already made your london itinerary.

Save yourself days of trying to plan an itinerary for a city you know nothing about. Our itineraries come with digital maps, printable checklists and more. Click the button below to learn more.

Everything to eat, see, and do in London.

Our latest articles..

Jess Dante - Founder

We’re Hiring

Become an Affiliate

Our Mission

Hi I’m Jess, the founder of Love and London. My team of locals and I help London tourists avoid the overhyped and overdone, so they can have the trip of a lifetime.

London Itineraries
Casual Tourist Guides to London
London Spending Guide
Free London 101 Guide
Free London Trip Checklist
London Packing Guide
Plan Your Trip
Find Your Perfect Accommodation
London Food + Drink Scene
London Photo Sessions
Book your airport transfer
London FAQs
Work with Love and London
How To Say “Thanks”
Press + Features

Order tracking
Make an exchange
Make a return
View our manuals
Warranty & repairs
Boston: Newbury
Boston: Seaport
LA: Venice Beach
LA: West Hollywood
NYC: Williamsburg
San Francisco
Washington DC
New arrivals
Best sellers
Shop all suitcases
Compare Carry-Ons
Compare checked
A color for every trip
Flex: Expandable suitcases
Bundle and save
Shop all bags
Crossbodies
Extended stays
Attachable sleeve
Personal item
Laptop friendly
The Outdoor Collection
Shop all accessories
Packing organizers
Toiletry bags
Tech organizers
In-flight essentials
Small leather goods
Luggage tags & charms
Compare duffles
Away x Resident Advisor
2024 Travel Destinations

Shop by size

Shop by collection, shop by category, shop by feature, city guides, away in london: seven dials.

Seven Dials, come shop our lineup IRL! Our stores are also available for call and collect orders and courier services. To arrange for call and collect, please give us a call at 020 7681 0341 during our business hours, or drop us a note at [email protected] .

The 10 Best London Bookshops to Visit

Post author By thebumpercrew
Post date December 9, 2023
Categories In England , Europe , London , Travel
No Comments on The 10 Best London Bookshops to Visit

Are you looking for bookshops in London? The Bumper Crew has it covered! We’ve curated a list of the biggest, best and quirkiest bookshops in London, each with a unique selling point to entice you to visit to pick up your next read.

Bookshops aren’t just about the books, are they? If that were the case, you’d buy them at the cheapest price from Amazon. Bookshops are more than just books. They are an experience where we love to get lost in a beautiful, peaceful atmosphere surrounded by creativity and colour. Bookshops offer a world of discovery. So, read on to discover the best bookshops in London!

London Bookshops to Visit
1 | Stanfords Travel Bookshop

Stanford Travel Bookshop has to be our favourite bookshop in London. Established in 1853, it’s a treasure trove of everything travel! You can buy a lot of travel related at Stanfords beyond books. They have maps, globes, gifts, stationery and most surprisingly, a cafe selling reasonably priced coffee for central London! You can even buy the hot air balloons they have dangling in the stairwell, which would be a cute addition to any travel-obsessed person’s home.

📍 7 Mercer Walk, London, WC2H 9FA

🌍 stanfords.co.uk

🕙 Various opening hours

📞 0207 836 1321

2 | Word on the Water – The London Bookbarge

Undoubtedly, Word on the Water is one of the most unique London bookshops going, if not the most. After all, it’s on a narrowboat . And even better, it’s in one of the coolest parts of the city, located right next to Coal Drops Yard and Gasholder Park. On board, you’ll find an array of books and nicely designed decor. It’s a unique little London bookshop that’s probably the most quirky on this list.

📍 Regent’s Canal Towpath, near King’s Cross

🌍 wordonthewater.co.uk

🕙 Mon to Sun 12:00 – 19:00

📞 07976 886 982

3 | Daunt Books Marylebone

Daunt Books Marylebone has the finest interior of any of the London bookshops. This cannot be argued, can it? With its wonderful balcony, it’s a picture-perfect bookshop, ready and waiting for your next Instagram post. Daunt Books own a series of bookshops around London, plus a few further afield, but the one you are looking for is the Marylebone branch. It’s a peaceful branch with two floors plus the iconic balcony. It gets busy on weekends, as you’d expect because it’s Instagram famous, so arrive early or late to avoid the crowds.

📍 84 Marylebone High St, London, W1U 4QW

🌍 dauntbooks.co.uk

🕙 Mon to Fri 09:00 – 19:30, Sun 11:00 – 18:00

📞 0207 224 2295

4 | Hurlingham Books

Possibly the most jam-packed of all the bookshops in London! It’s unbelievable. Even the windows are jam-packed full of books! We just happened to stumble upon Hurlingam Books as we were heading home from Putney Bridge. It’s tucked out of the way but worth the effort to visit. They also have a warehouse not far away with over 1,000,000 books in. Correct, one million books!

Hurlingham Books claims to be the oldest independent bookshop in South West London. Whether it is or not doesn’t particularly matter because it’s unlikely any other bookshop in the area can match them for quirkiness or the sheer volume of books. It’s worth noting the opening times are also a little irregular. It doesn’t carry the crowds of some of the other bookshops, so head there when it’s more likely to be open. Ha!

📍 91 Fulham High St, London, SW6 3JS

🌍 hurlinghambooks.com

🕙 Mon – Fri 09:00 – 18:00, Sat & Sun 10:00 – 18:00 (all variable!)

📞 0207 736 4363

5 | Waterstones Picadilly

A branch of Waterstones has made this list for one reason only. Not because it’s a lousy bookshop. It’s not, but Waterstones are a household name that often doesn’t have anything necessarily special about it. They are lovely shops that are all over the place, but nothing special, nonetheless. That’s where Waterstones Picadilly comes in. This is their flagship store and Europe’s largest bookshop. It’s spread over eight floors and claims to have 13km (8 miles) of bookshelves, which is crazy! You’ll find all your book needs here, as well as frequent events like book signings and opportunities to meet authors.

📍 203-206 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1J 9HD

🌍 waterstones.com

🕙 Mon – Sat 09:00 – 21:00, Sun 12:00 – 18:00

📞 020 7851 2400

6 | Hatchards Picadilly

Just down the road from Waterstones sits Hatchards Picadilly. Hatchards have been selling books since John Hatchard, a publisher and anti-slavery campaigner, opened the shop in 1797, making it London’s oldest bookshop. It’s a large, beautiful five-storey bookshop next to Fortnum and Mason. They are also a bookseller to the Royal households and hold three Royal Warrants!

📍 187 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1J 9LE

🌍 hatchards.co.uk

🕙 Mon – Sat 09:30 – 20:00, Sun 12:00 – 18:00

📞 0207 439 9921

7 | Henry Pordes Books

Henry Pordes Books sits just up the road from the better-known Any Amount of Books near Charring Cross. Henry Pordes Books is a much nicer bookshop, though, selling antique, second-hand books and remaindered books. It’s a lovely, peaceful shop with a cute little window seat at the back. They also sell some cool vintage prints of cars and tourist posters and whatnot.

📍 72 Charing Cross Rd, London, WC2H 0BB

🌍 henrypordesbooks.com

🕙 Mon – Sat 10:30 – 19:30, Sun closed

📞 0207 836 9031

8 | Maison Assouline

Maison Assouline is the most unique bookshop on this list. That’s because it’s not just a bookshop. Maison Assouline, located in a former high-security bank in Piccadilly, is a luxurious lifestyle and cultural destination that combines a bookstore, a publishing house, a gallery, and a café. It is renowned for its sophisticated ambience and a curated selection of books, art, and other fancy items. Maison Assouline is part of Assouline, a well-known luxury publishing company founded by Prosper and Martine Assouline in 1994.

It’s the kind of place where white gloves are required to turn the pages of the books on show.

📍 196A Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1J 9EY

🌍 maisonassouline.com

🕙 Mon – Wed 10:30 – 19:00, Thu – Sat 10:30 – 21:00, Sun closed

📞 0203 034 1197

9 | Battersea Bookshop

What makes this London bookshop worth visiting? The fact it’s in one of London’s most iconic buildings. The Battersea Bookshop claims to be “a neighbourhood independent bookshop from Stanfords with a wide selection of books focusing on art and architecture, a special area for children’s books and an event hub”. As well as books, they also sell stationery, games and bespoke gifts with a quirky, industrial theme to match the industrial past of Battersea Power Station. Battersea Bookshop is a great bookshop that’s worth the effort to visit. Not just for the atmosphere, books, and gifts but because it’s in one of the most impressive, exciting and innovative destinations in the capital.

📍 Unit 74, Battersea Power Station, London, SW11 8BU

🌍 batterseabookshop.com

10 | Cecil Court

Cecil Court isn’t a bookshop but a street of many bookshops, hence its nickname of Bookseller’s Row. Despite that, it deserves a place on this list because it’s lovely in many ways besides books. It’s an attractive street, lined with excellent Victorian shop fronts, selling all sorts of books, from first editions to children’s books. There are also a few other bits on offer, like maps, prints and antiques. Interestingly, it was once the temporary home of Mozart, that famous composer. It’s a tremendous little London street worth a wander down, even if you’re not a book lover. And if you’d like to know more about the street, check out our handy little guide to Cecil Court .

📍 West End, London, WC2N 4HE

🌍 cecilcourt.co.uk

Bookshops in London Map

What is the biggest bookshop in London?

Waterstones Picadilly is the biggest bookshop in London. It’s their flagship store and the largest bookshop in Europe, with eight floors and 13km of bookshelves!

What is the oldest bookshop in London?

Hatchards in Piccadilly is the oldest bookshop in London. It’s been selling books since 1797. Their reputation is so strong, and they’ve been going so long that they are the holder of three Royal Warrants, meaning the Royal Family use them to buy books.

What is the quirkiest bookshop in London?

The quirkiest bookshop in London title has to go to Word on the Water in King’s Cross. That’s because it’s on a barge on a canal! It also has a lovely interior delicately designed to reflect the character of the barge and what it sells.

Bookshops in London

2 | Word on the Water – The London Bookbarge

If you want to keep up with our travels, please subscribe to our mailing list. We won’t spam you; we’ll only contact you with exciting news and new stuff! Enter your email in the box below and hit subscribe!

Type your email…

Share the post.

Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
Tags England , Europe , London , Places to Visit , Things to do

What are you looking for?

15 best bookshops in london [by a local bookworm].

If you are a book lover in London (like me), then you really are spoilt for choice!

There’s such a huge variety of bookshops in the city and you can find them pretty much on every street, the city is absolutely full of them!

Whether you are looking for cosy, modern, second-hand books, new releases or first editions, there will be a bookstore for you.

I am a huge bookworm.

I love escaping the chaos of this crazy (yet wonderful) city every now and then to spend a few hours browsing for a good new book.

Plus, it’s one of the best things to do in London during Winter & it’s too cold to head outside!

Since I have tried and tested most of the bookshops in central London now, I have narrowed down my 15 best bookshops in London that you absolutely must visit!

Let’s get straight into it …

Travellerspoint

London’s best bookshops

1. foyles ‍.

‍ Location: Charing Cross road ‍

Opening times: Monday-Saturday 9am until 9pm and 11:30 until 6pm on Sundays

I couldn't make this list without mentioning what is probably London’s most famous bookshop, Foyles , specifically the one on Charing Cross road.

This bookstore is absolutely huge, stretching over five floors and housing pretty much every book you can think of, and plenty you will have never heard of!

While it's not the cosiest on this list, if you are after a particular book or want to take some time to browse for a while, Foyles is a great place to start.

Not only does Foyles house the largest collection of books in the UK with a whopping 200,000, but it is also a great place to pick up games, puzzles and other souvenirs.

Be sure to head to the 5th level to check out their cafe if you need a caffeine fix to finish all your browsing!

2. Brick Lane Bookshop

Location: Brick Lane

Opening times: Open every day from 10am until 6pm

I can never visit Brick Lane without popping into Brick Lane Bookshop .

As it opened in the 1970’s, it was actually the first ever bookshop in Tower Hamlets and was created after a protest for more art projects in the borough.

It is quite a small independent bookshop but if you can't find what you are looking for, they are more than happy to order you a specific book in, usually ready to collect the very next day!

If you do visit, be sure to pick up their very own short stories book and a tote bag as a souvenir!

3. Walden Books

Location: Camden

Opening times: Only open Thursday through until Sunday 10:30am until 6:30pm

When I think of a cosy independent bookshop in London , Walden Books is always the one that springs to mind for me.

It is tucked away on a side street, just around the corner from one of the best food markets in London , Camden Market, you would have to know it's there to find it!

Books on display outside of Walden Books

If you are looking for the newest releases, you won't find them at Walden Books as they purely buy and sell second-hand books specialising in rare and unique literature and visual arts.

Scramble through the huge piles of books outside in great condition and you can find some incredible books for as little as 50p! Or why not take a peek at their rare book collections inside if you are looking to invest in a different type of book?

If you visit in the warmer months, the whole front of the store is covered in beautiful lilac-coloured wisteria and other blooming flowers.

4. Alice Through The Looking Glass

Alice Through The Looking Glass Bookshop in London

Location: Cecil Court

Opening times: Monday to Friday 11am until 5:30pm, Saturdays 11am until 6pm and closed on Sundays.

Nestled away in one of my all time favourite streets in London, is the incredible Alice Through the Looking Glass shop.

As you can probably tell by the name, the whole shop is dedicated to all things Lewis Carol and Alice in Wonderland.

It's a tiny little shop but is absolutely filled to the brim with memorabilia, clothing, stationary, artwork and first edition books, it's pretty much an Alice in Wonderland book museum !

If you do decide to visit (which you definitely should) don't forget to say hello to Harley, their resident white rabbit!

5. Hurlingham Books

Location: Fulham High Street

Opening Times: Monday-Friday 9am until 6pm (ish) and Weekends 10am (ish) until 6pm.

Potentially the best hidden-gem bookshop in London has to be Hurlingham Books ! I accidentally stumbled upon this bookshop when I was flat-hunting in Fulham and completely fell in love with the place.

If light, spacious and well-organised bookshops are your thing, this is the complete opposite! They have thousands of books all stacked on top of each other and piling outside the door, seemingly with no rhyme or reason!

Apparently, Hurlingham Books is the oldest bookshop in South West London, after being opened by owner Ray Cole in 1968. Believe it or not, Ray still opens the bookshop himself daily every single morning! He loves talking about books so do stop and have a chat if you see him.

If for some reason you can't find a book that takes your fancy in their huge amount of books in the store, they have a warehouse housing over a million books just around the corner which makes it impossible to leave empty handed!

They are known for having pretty lax opening times so beware they might open late or close early, or not be open at all if the footballs on, but that's the charm of the place!

6. Stanfords

Location: Covent Gardens

Opening times: Monday to Wednesday 9am until 6pm, Thursday to Friday 9am until 7pm, Saturdays 10am until 7pm and Sundays 12noon until 6pm.

If you are a lover of all things travel and wanderlust , you have to visit Stanfords in Covent Garden !

While they only moved to their standing site in 1950, Standfords themselves have been operating since 1853.

The beautiful building has stacked high bookshelves full to the brim of travel guides, itineraries, maps, and history books from all over the world.

They organise all of their books by country so you will not struggle to find what you are looking for, and if you are missing travel as much as me, you could spend hours perusing the endless shelves.

7. Any Amount of Books

Location: Charing Cross road

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 11am until 7:30pm and Sundays 11am until 6pm.

For second hand books at an affordable price in Central London, Any Amount of Books is the best place to go.

Although it has changed hands and names a few times, there has been a bookstore at this address on Charing Cross road since the 1920s!

It's a great bookshop just to have a long browse in.

Better still if you are visiting London on a budget and want to pick up a good read. As there’s always the possibility of finding books for just £1.

Or even some rare collectable editions!

I always forget this place is located just off Leicester Square because it really has a quaint neighbourhood bookshop feel to it .

New books are always nice, but there's just something better about getting a pre-loved book for an absolute bargain and luckily Any Amount of Books keeps that going even in an age where kindles and e-readers are all the range.

8. Hatchards

Location: Piccadilly

Opening times: Monday until Saturday 9:30am until 8pm and Sundays 12noon until 6pm.

I couldn't write a list about the best bookshops in London without mentioning London's oldest bookshop , Hatchards .

Opened by John Hatchard in 1797 and holding three royal warrants, Hatchards is an iconic spot and a staple of Piccadilly and London itself.

While it is a really really old store, they combine the traditional with the modern beautifully, holding both brand new books and some that are hundreds of years old.

If you are after some rare, original, signed or special edition books, Hatchards is a great place to look! Many famous authors over the years have had their first book signings here so you will likely be able to get your hands on some original signed copies from your favourite authors!

There is now a store in St Pancras which if you want a less prestigious shopping experience, it's worth checking out but really the original in Piccadilly is far superior!

9. Upper Street Bookshop

Location: Islington

Opening times: Everyday from 8:30am until 8:30pm

Upper Street Bookshop is located in one of London’s best places to stay , Angel Islington.

All of their books are carefully handpicked and you will find a mixture of new releases and high-quality remaindered books in the beautiful shop. Their friendly staff are always more than happy to help you find exactly what you are after.

By far the best part of this bookshop though in my opinion is their “blind date with a book” section!

You really can't judge a book by its cover but let's be honest, we all do!

Their blind date section has all their books covered in brown packaging with just a few intriguing words written on them describing the book so you can buy it blindly for only £8 and maybe try something you would have never normally picked up!

Upper Street Bookshops have some awesome great quality tote bags for sale as well so if you are a bookshop tote bag collector like me, definitely grab one when you’re visiting!

It's apparently part of a small chain of independent bookstores called House of Books and if the rest of their shops are as nice as the Upper Street one, I would recommend checking them out too!

10. Word on the Water

Location: Kings Cross

Opening times: Every day from midday until 7pm

Word on the Water has to be the most unique book shops in the whole of London … and maybe even the UK!

A full bookstore set on a 100 year old dutch barge, jump aboard and browse their endless supply of new, old and classic books.

Every nook and cranny of this boat bookstore is an Instagrammers dream , with its higglety pigglety furniture and impressive bookshelves.

It's not just an epic bookshop on a boat either, it's a full experience!

They regularly host talks on things like art and politics and in the summer months, you can see open mic nights, live music and poetry slams hosted on the boat's roof!

11. Daunt Books

Location: Marylebone

Opening times: Monday until Saturday 9am until 7:30pm and Sundays 11am until 6pm.

Daunt books is one of the most famous and iconic bookstores in London .

The beautiful Edwardian building was first opened as a bookshop in 1912, but wasn't actually bought by James Daunt until 1990.

Daunt Books originally specialised in travel books so the whole store is still organised by geographical location, despite now having a huge range now of fiction and new releases.

Although their book selection is great, the building and atmosphere of Daunt Books with their wooden staircases and stained glass windows are what makes the bookstore one of the best! For this reason, although Daunt Books has a few branches now across London, Marylebone is the one to visit!

If you are a keen traveller as well as a book lover, let this be the bookshop to visit, it is one of my favourites and even gets a shout out on my list of the best things to do for free in London !

Location: Berwick Street, Soho

Opening times: Monday to Sunday 10:30am until 7pm

For any comic book fan, Gosh has to be top of your list! They have an unbeaten collection of graphic novels from your rare vintage superhero picks to manga to popular new releases.

Set in the heart of Soho, even if you are not a huge comic book fan like myself, I would highly recommend popping in and seeing what they are all about.

While it's different from your regular cosy London bookshop, Gosh! has a comic or graphic novel for every kind of reader; potentially a good London date idea …

Always check their events schedule as they host monthly reading events, and comic book launches and regularly have signings within the store that you do not want to miss.

13. Watkins Books

Location : Cecil Court

Opening times: Monday to Sunday 11am until 6:30pm

Watkins Books is home to one of the world's largest collections of esoteric books and has been for nearly 120 years!

Set in the beautiful street of Cecil Court, Watkins Books is a unique store, specialising in spiritual books.

They stock a huge variety of literature ranging from Eastern Philosophy, yoga and meditation, self-development, wellness and all that other good stuff!

Their book collection spreads over two floors but they also stock an excellent range of gifts, tarot cards, crystals, incense, statues and jewellery.

14. Henry Pordes Books

Location: Charing Cross

Opening times: Monday to Saturday 10:30am until 7:30pm but closed on Sundays.

Located in Charing Cross, Henry Pordes has been a favourite amongst book lovers in London for years!

Its cosy ambient lighting and floor to ceiling bookshelves make you want to browse the second-hand books for hours.

They have a huge range of books, hosting everything from modern delights to early classics. The owners and staff are friendly and book lovers themselves, always helpful and happy to have a natter about their extensive collections.

It's also only around the corner from Cecil Court, home to heaps of small independent bookshops and antique stores. Such as Goldsboro Books, Alice Through the Looking Glass and Travis & Emery, so if you fancy a London bookshop crawl, you can go to a good few in a day!

15. Libreria

Location: Just off Brick Lane

Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 10am until 6pm, Sundays 12noon until 6pm and closed on Mondays.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and relax in a cosy nook of this awesome bookstore in east London.

Every book in their collection has been handpicked and curated by the owners, meaning on every visit, the stocks will change.

I also love their layout, as unlike other stores that might organise in alphabetical order, Liberia orders by theme or vibe , so there are whole sections dedicated to things like “enlightenment”, “bad feminism”, “identity”, “scandal” and “wanderlust”.

Libreria has a strict no-screens policy, so leave your phone switched off, find yourself a cosy corner and get tucked away into one of their carefully handpicked books!

Which bookshop will you visit?

Thanks for reading my rundown of the best bookshops in London.

Do let me know if you have visited any of these.

Or better still … if there are any more in the city I should check out, as I am always on the lookout.

P.s If you are visiting London soon, do check out some of my other London guides while you are here:

Best London travel tips
How to get around London
What to pack for London

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

Inspiration
Destinations
Places To Stay
Style & Culture
Food & Drink
Wellness & Spas
News & Advice
Partnerships
Traveller's Directory
Travel Tips
Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

10 lovely independent bookshops in London – that deliver

By Monisha Rajesh

Brilliant independent bookshops in London that deliver

1. West End Lane Books

As friendly and familiar as the local pub, West End Lane Books is a real neighbourhood favourite. With its worn floorboards and selection of classics and crime, contemporary and kids’ books, this is a place with as much heart as history. Driven out of Libya by the Gaddafi regime, publisher Mohammed Fergiani opened the store in 1994 before launching its sister shop – Queen’s Park Books – in 2004, and both are still run by his son Ghassan. Around a quarter of stock is for children, with the back corner dedicated to younger readers, and in addition to books the shop sells beautiful gift wrap, tarot cards and notelets, normally under the watchful eyes of the two resident goldfish, Canongate and Faber. West End Lane Books are now posting out books.

Address: West End Lane Bookshop, 277 West End Lane, London NW6 1QS Telephone: +44 20 7431 3770 Website: welbooks.co.uk Twitter: @WELBooks

The Second Shelf

Snuggled into a corner of Smith’s Court in Soho and fronted by a little red door, The Second Shelf is a shrine to women writers and the rare-book trade. Pink-floored and wallpapered with marbled paper normally used for the end pages of books, the shop was opened in November 2018 by writer AN Devers. Stocking everything from vintage paperbacks at £6 apiece to a proof of Toni Morrison’s Beloved and even a £15,000 paper belonging to Marie Curie that contained her own edits, the Second Shelf is ideal for special gifts or to simply spoil yourself with a fabulous first edition. While the shop is temporarily closed, you can buy gift certificates online for future use and to help keep the shop afloat.

Address: The Second Shelf, 14 Smith’s Court, London W1D 7DW Telephone: +44 20 3490 2800 Website: thesecondshelf.com Twitter: @secondshelfbks

Burley Fisher Books

Focusing on small press and mini press books, Burley Fisher is the ultimate community bookshop hosting regular events and launches. Under normal circumstances you can pull up a chair in its cosy little café or get a drink at the bar while thumbing through its thoughtful collection of books, as well as personal and political essays and auto-fiction. Striving to deliver by bike, the dedicated staff suggest books based on your recent reads, and have just launched Isolation Station , a podcast that features writers currently releasing new books. While the shop is temporarily closed, the team are still on social media offering recommendations and posting out any books they have in stock.

Address: Burley Fisher Books, 400 Kingsland Road, London E8 4AA Telephone: +44 20 7249 2263 Website: burleyfisherbooks.com Twitter: @burleyfisher

Round Table Books

What started as a pop-up store for diversity-focused children’s books became a permanent fixture in Brixton in May 2019 after a successful crowdfunding campaign by local residents and parents whose kids were thrilled to see themselves represented for the first time in fairy tales and comics. Fitted with bright-red shelves and lit by an array of lightbulbs, the space radiates with a technicolour joy bouncing off smooth, shiny hardbacks. The shop’s ethos centres on championing books with BAME, neurodiverse, LGBTQ+ and disabled protagonists, and stocks writers including Annabelle Sami, Kwame Alexander, Jason Reynolds and Samantha Baines. While the shop is temporarily closed, you can email or contact India and Layla on social media and they can arrange for books to be delivered directly from stockists.

Address: Round Table Books, 97 Granville Arcade, Coldharbour Lane, London SW9 8PS Website: roundtablebooks.co.uk Twitter: @booksround

Persephone Books

Two flower boxes guard the entrance to Persephone Books, a demure frontage that belies the force of the literature within. Owner Nicola Beauman had the idea to reprint a handful of fiction and non-fiction titles by mid-20th-century women writers who were overlooked in their time, and her catalogue has now grown to include 135 books. Wrapped in identical grey jackets, they’re arranged alongside vases of bright fresh flowers. Priced at £13 each or £33 for three, the books contain individual endpapers bursting with colour, usually made from a textile relating to the year of publication. While the shop is temporarily closed, Beauman’s daughter Fran will read segments from the books every day at 11am on Instagram Live. Tune in to watch Elevenses with Fran ( @fransbookshop ).

Address: Persephone Books, 59 Lamb’s Conduit Street, London WC1N 3NB Telephone: +44 20 7242 9292 Website: persephonebooks.co.uk Twitter: @PersephoneBooks

Gay’s the Word

Since opening in 1979, Gay’s the Word has been a pillar of the LGBTQ+ community, selling comics, graphic novels, poetry, history titles and memoirs along with usual staples such as DVDs, flags, humorous postcards and badges. The UK ’s first gay bookshop, and now the only surviving one, it stocks everything, ‘from the profound to the frivolous, from the liberating to the indulgent’, and has regular discussion groups, readings and signings from writers including Sarah Waters and Armistead Maupin. It’s a safe space for open conversation and staff are always willing to lend an ear to anyone who steps through the door. While the shop is temporarily shut, Jim, Uli and Erica will do their best to fulfil mail-order queries ([email protected]), and every weekday morning Erica will be reading the work of an LGBTQ+ poet on Instagram Live ( @gaysthewordbookshop ).

Address: Gay's the Word, 66 Marchmont Street, London WC1N 1AB Telephone: +44 20 7242 9292 Website: gaystheword.co.uk Twitter: @gaystheword

From the moment you step through the door it feels warm, spot-lit by desk lamps clipped to shelves and turned to face walls. A barrisol ceiling reflects the curves of the bookshelves that hug the edges, giving the appearance of infinite spines and pages. Opened in conjunction with workspace company Second Home, Libreria emphasises design and innovation, and a move away from the distractions of technology. There is no Wi-Fi in the shop and customers are politely requested not to use phones, encouraged instead to browse categories that include ‘bad feminist’, ‘enchantment for disenchanted’ and ‘utopia’ to discover books you might not otherwise read. While the shop is temporarily closed, sign up to The Libreria Podcast and Second Home’s free online programme which includes podcasts and an isolation book club.

Address: Libreria, 65 Hanbury Street, London E1 5JP Website: [ libreria.io ](http://thesecondshelf.com/) Twitter: @LibreriaLondon

Kirkdale Bookshop

Sydenham wouldn’t be the same without Kirkdale Bookshop, a neighbourhood stalwart that opened in 1966. Selling both new and pre-loved titles, it has all the charm expected from a local bookshop, from the window display that changes every two weeks to mark significant events to the yellow ducks tacked to the desk by the till. It’s easy to miss the basement that’s filled with second-hand books and classics, plus there are tempting knick-knacks for sale such as vintage Penguin mugs, tinned candles, soaps and hand creams. While the shop is temporarily closed, keep in touch or ask for recommendations via email and social media.

Address: Kirkdale Bookshop, 272 Kirkdale, London SE26 4RS Telephone: +44 20 8778 4701 Website: kirkdalebookshop.com Twitter: @KirkdaleBooks

If ever there was a time to long after travel books, it’s now. And there’s no better place to head to than Stanfords in Covent Garden. Established in 1853, it has inched its way around London , coming to rest most recently on Mercer Walk. It’s a haven of maps, guides and travelogues – including contemporary fiction and children’s books. For those on the hunt for a present, there are stacks of diaries, journals and calendars as well as board games and antique globes. While the shop is temporarily closed, contact them on Twitter for book recommendations on specific locations and order online for home delivery.

Address: Stanfords, 7 Mercer Walk, London WC2H 9FA Telephone: +44 20 7836 1321 Website: stanfords.co.uk Twitter: @StanfordsTravel

Newham Bookshop

Beneath faded yellow awning, this busy East London delight – named by Bernardine Evaristo as a favourite – is technically two shops, with an adults’ side and a dedicated children’s side linked at the back. It was set up 42 years ago by a group of parents who felt that Newham should have a bookshop. Free from airs and graces, with books in delicious disarray, this spot is usually a treat for browsers picking their way around piles on the floor or flicking through pages beneath the jungle-themed bunting. While it is temporarily closed they can not post anything they do not currently have in stock, but readers can call between 9am and 10.30am to order books that can be posted or delivered locally by bike. Email ([email protected]) for requests to check stock.

Address: Newham Bookshop, 743-745 Barking Road, London E13 9ER Website: newhambooks.co.uk Twitter: @newhambookshop

Like this? Now read:

10 brilliant skills you can learn online

The best restaurants to order delivery from in London

London's best coffee delivery services

The ultimate guide to shopping in London

GettyImages-599834779-scaled-e1600196545259

London is a fantastic shopping destination -- in fact, you could easily visit just for that purpose. It is also, in my opinion, one of the fashion capitals of the whole world -- so what better spot for a wardrobe shake-up or something for a special occasion?

London is huge, multicultural and full of shops for every budget, so I challenge you to not to be able to find something you love.

So whether it's art, haute couture, vintage clothes, jewelry or even just a souvenir, there are places that will suit you. Combined with our capital's amazing food scene and collection of lovely cocktail and coffee spots, you can have a dreamy day of retail therapy -- solo or with someone else -- very easily.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Department stores

London has loads of these -- from the super swanky Harrods, Selfridge's and Fortnum & Mason to the more mainstream options like Debenhams. Despite the differences in price tags, they are all a "one shop stop" for everything. But each has its own charm. Harrods opened in 1849 and is famous for being the purveyor of all things fancy, from food to furniture to lion cubs (yes, you could buy exotic animals there even until the 1970s).

It's located in Knightsbridge and is a very pleasant place to while away a few hours, admiring the lavish decor and liveried doormen and maybe stopping off for a snack at one of its 23 eateries.

Read more : 10 awesome things to do in London for free

England, London, Knightsbridge, Harrods, Food Hall, Chocolate Counter (Photo by: Dukas/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Selfridge's, on Oxford Street, is more modern and its beauty hall is mind-blowing. Fortnums is worth a visit for its food hall and Liberty, in a Tudor-revival building near Oxford Circus, is the place for homeware and fabrics. Meanwhile, Debenhams and John Lewis are handy for slightly more affordable ware with a mix of high street and designer products.

All department stores tend to have nice restaurants and Champagne bars, and I have some very fond memories of looking for bridesmaids dresses and inspiration for my wedding at both Harrods and John Lewis (or Peter Jones) on Sloane Square.

London boasts some incredible markets -- perfect for finding real hidden treasures. Borough Market in London Bridge is the go-to one for foodies. It's teeming with stalls from truffles to fish to ice cream to the stinkiest of cheeses. If it's not food you're after, Leadenhall Market in the City was originally a meat, poultry and game market but is now home to a "number of boutique retailers, restaurants, cafes, wine bars and an award-winning pub".

Portobello Road, Notting Hill, London, UK. (Photo by RoBeDeRo/Getty Images)

Another TPG favorite is Columbia Road Flower Market, near trendy Shoreditch. Open every Sunday, you can get blooms for a bargain and it's also full of vibey coffee shops and some lovely bars. Portobello Market near Notting Hill in west London is fabulous for antiques, comics, records and vintage clothes and the shops go on for nearly two miles. The pretty pastel-colored houses and cafes are very charming, too.

In the south-east is Greenwich Market, open daily and covered, too, so ideal if it rains. Greenwich is a personal favorite for present shopping, as there are lots of affordable and quirky stalls and once I've found the perfect gift, I treat myself to a giant ice cream at Panache.

Vintage clothes shopping is almost a sport is some cities. In particularly good shops, it can get very aggressive, like being at a New York sample sale. Naturally, there are lots of decent vintage shops scattered throughout the city, but there is a large concentration of them in the Brick Lane/Shoreditch/Spitalfields areas of east London and the City.

Some personal recommendations are Beyond Retro -- it's labyrinthine, so be prepared to spend a while there. It's in a former dairy on Cheshire Street and opened in 2002. You can find everything from cowboy boots to vintage sunglasses to fabulously hideous 1980s prom dresses. It's so fun and there are also branches in Soho and Dalston.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CEo28w7pV9R/

Other great vintage shops in the area include Hunky Dory Vintage, Rokit and Brick Lane Vintage Market (loads of stalls all under one roof). One of my favorite-ever finds was an old cheerleading jacket from a random high school in Idaho.

For a real "Sex and the City" feeling -- even if you're not buying -- head to New Bond Street in Mayfair and its environs to gaze in the windows of labels like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, YSL, Chloe, Cartier and much more. Christmas is a great time to window shop here, as each house takes its festive window dressing very seriously. It's also the third most expensive street in the world to rent shop space, according to Retail Gazette.

Read more : The complete guide to London's parks and green spaces

If you're in the market for a treat, you can spend an afternoon making your way down Old Bond Street towards Fenwicks and veer off to South Molton Lane, Bruton Street and more. After spending loads of money, a little more won't hurt for a cocktail at Mews of Mayfair , surely?

Other shopping spots to note

1. the king's road.

This road that snakes through Chelsea is a mecca for affluent millennials and is dotted with up-and-coming fashion designers and shops selling gorgeous but pricey trinkets. It's associated with 1960s-style as both Mary Quant and Vivienne Westwood had (and have) stores there. Chelsea is also home to lots of excellent restaurants -- including one of my favorites, No. Fifty Cheyne , so worth a visit to the area just for that. The King's Road, at two miles long, starts at Sloane Square station.

2. Carnaby Street

Carnaby Street is another London epicenter of style and culture and was where the Swinging Sixties era was said to have started. It was also home to the Mod, Skinhead, Punk and New Romantic movements and has got a pretty rock 'n' roll heritage too. The Small Faces, The Who and the Rolling Stones performed in nearby Soho and Carnaby Street is referenced in many songs such as "Dedicated Follower of Fashion" by The Kinks.

Read more : An expert's guide to London neighborhoods

The Stones even have their own shop there now. There are also "over 100 international and British heritage labels, independent boutiques, one-off concepts, cult beauty emporiums, grooming salons and bespoke jewelry specialists". There's a really exciting atmosphere on Carnaby Street and every Christmas and during big events, it's like walking down a street in a film set.

3. ICON Outlet, the 02

This is the spot for bargain hunters with taste. Part of the O2 Arena in North Greenwich, this discounted outlet offers up to 70% off mid-luxury brands such as Aspinal of London, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Levi's. It's modern and airy and without the huge crowds found at some outlets, and afterwards, there is plenty to do in the arena itself.

Bottom line

From reading this far, you would be right in assuming I love to shop. I'm also very lucky that I live somewhere so brilliant at it. However, I have the benefit of having had quite a bit of practice here. The first time I visited New York or Paris , I felt overwhelmed (actually, panicky is more accurate) at all the choice. What if I couldn't find all the beautiful things? Shopaholic or not, I hope this guide helps you make a plan, figure out where is best suited to you and most of all -- find something to buy that no one else has!

35+ Best Things to Buy in London: Complete London Gift Guide

By: Author The Working Line

Posted on Published: July 8, 2023 - Last updated: April 16, 2024

best things to buy in london - best souvenirs from london from a local - best gifts from london - london gift guide for women - london gift guide for men - best gifts for men from london - best gifts for women from london - best shops in london - best cheap shopping in london - where to buy macarons in london - best places to buy food in london - best brunch in london - best souvenir shops in london - best gift shops in london - best shops on oxford street - best shopping centers in london - best charity shops in london - best outlets in london - best clothes shops in london - best makeup shops in london - best tk maxx in london

There may be affiliate links throughout the content you're about to read. When you purchase from my links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) which helps me provide even more awesome content for you :)

Welcome to my complete London gift guide, with all the best things to buy in London, from treats to makeup, souvenirs and food!

I’ve talked a lot about cheap clothings shops in London , and other beautiful bookshops and stationery shops, and I wanted to do a big round up – from a local.

I moved to London in 2019, and I have been shopping more than I care to admit.

In this guide, I’ll share some of the coolest souvenirs and gifts from London – whether you live here or not!

I have designed this London gift guide as a tool handy for both men and women (whichever your gender is), so you have plenty of ideas.

One of the things I wish I knew when traveling to London for the first time was that there are budget shops here.

You don’t have to overspend or splurge if you don’t want to – but some things are worth it, and you’ll find them all here!

Best Things to Buy in London: Tea at Whittard’s

I love finding new, cute tea shops in London, and Whittard’s was one of the first ones I ever encountered.

Two of my favorites are the shops in Covent Garden and Oxford Street , where you’ll be able to find the whole tea, chocolate and coffee collection.

The vibe definitely is British, and if you can try their chocolate covered coffee beans, you’ll have found your new favorite snack.

Best Things to Buy in London: Penhaligon’s Perfume at Regent Street

In my opinion, one of the best things to buy in London are Penhaligon’s perfumes.

This is my favorite perfume shop in London, and I have been collecting these perfumes for a few years now.

If you’re ever looking for the best shops on Regent Street, make sure to pay a visit to this quintessential British perfume brand.

I currently have Babylon, and I used to have As-Sawira and Endymion Concentré, which are all some of the best perfumes you’ll ever find in London.

Best Things to Buy in London: Walker’s Nonsuch Toffee in American Candy Shops

Outside of the United Kingdom, Walker’s Nonsuch Toffee is not such a famous brand.

However, if you’re looking to bring proper British toffees, you have to get a few bags of these.

Coffee, banana, caramel, chocolate, macadamia…

The best ones are the macadamia – try them as soon as you get the chance!

I usually find these in the American candy shops on Oxford Street and around Leicester Square , and best believe these are some of the best ever toffees in London.

Best Things to Buy in London: Something from Cath Kidston

Cath Kidston is one of the most famous British lifestyle brands and with clothes, stationery and home decor, you have plenty to choose from.

I love finding new cute stationery in London and Cath Kidston, well…

Never disappoints.

Perfect for people who are always after secret gardens in London and other rooftops, since Cath Kidston embodies the beauty of a traditional British garden.

Best Things to Buy in London: A DW Home Candle at TK Maxx

I’ve written quite a bit about the best DW Home candle scents .

And well, a visit to TK Maxx shops is mandatory if you love scented candles .

Those from the American candle brand come much cheaper than Yankee Candle in TK Maxx shops , and you literally have dozens of fragrances to choose from.

So whether you’re looking for cheap candle shops in London or just happen to love browsing the TK Maxx racks, make sure you pack a DW Home candle!

Best Things to Buy in London: Velvet Items in Charity Shops

Finding amazing charity shops in London is one of my passions, wherever I happen to live.

I used to live in Tottenham, Bethnal Green , North Finchley, Mile End, West Hampstead and Greenwich and well, there are charity shops everywhere.

Some of the best things to buy in London are vintage and secondhand books , clothes and jewelry from Oxfam, Cancer Research or the British Heart Foundation.

Whether you choose to visit the charity shops in Camden Town or North Finchley, you’re bound to find something good to bring back home.

Best Things to Buy in London: Barry M Makeup at Superdrug

Barry M doesn’t have a self standing makeup shop in London ; rather, you’ll find their amazing cosmetics at Boots and Superdrug.

If you’re ever looking for the best British drugstore makeup brands , you’ll see that Barry M ticks all the boxes.

From Barry M dupes for MAC lip liners to £3.99 nail polish that lasts an eternity, you have lots to enjoy with this brand!

Some other great British makeup brands include MUA Makeup Academy, Collection and Revolution and their super affordable products.

Best Things to Buy in London: The Famous Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick

There are plenty of Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk dupes on the market, but the real deal hasn’t gone this far by mistake.

One of the best Matte Revolution shades for all skin tones, Pillow Talk is the symbol of British elegance.

There are some other beautiful shades to shop, from berry lipsticks to some of the most sophisticated red lipsticks of all time.

And obviously, obviously – some of the best things to buy in London if you want to bring home a touch of Britishness!

Best Things to Buy in London: Macarons at Pierre Herme Selfridges

Pierre Herme is one of the best patisseries in Paris , but in London, their macarons stand is partly what makes me come back to Selfridges again and again.

The Pierre Herme macarons are some of my favorite pastries in London , and they have a subtle and fragrant taste that you won’t find anything else.

For a short trip back home if you’re traveling to London for the first time, you can bring macarons with you on the plane.

But to be honest, they’re best enjoyed when walking around town in search of free rooftops and incredible views.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Rimmel Kate Moss Lipstick from Boots

Rimmel is another one of the most famous drugstore makeup brands in the world, and the Kate Moss collaborations are beautiful.

You can still find a lot of the most popular shades (including shade 104, the perfect MAC Mehr lipstick dupe ) at Boots and Superdrug.

And I mean, after all, I’m an ex- makeup artist .

It just seems normal to get some properly pigmented drugstore makeup in London, doesn’t it, when you’re visiting?

I’m partly writing this post for locals and first time visitors, so really, anyone can enjoy those treats when in town!

Best Things to Buy in London: A Burberry Coat

Burberry’s headquarters are located in London, and one of the most beautiful luxury shops in London is also theirs on Regent Street.

I’ve only been to the Burberry shop a couple of times, but it’s a whole experience.

And of course, what could be a better thing to buy in London other than a classic Burberry trench coat?

Regent Street might not be a secret London photography spot , but you can do that two-birds-one-stone kind of thing by shopping and snapping some pics!

Best Things to Buy in London: Church’s Shoes

Church’s is one of the fanciest shoe shops in London, and targeted at men who really want that British elegance on their feet.

A pair of Church’s shoes easily retails for around £300, but they’re also some of the highest quality leather shoes you’ll have in your life.

In addition to shoes, Church’s also sells accessories and is just perfect if you’re looking for the best things to buy in London for a man.

Best Things to Buy in London: Chocolate at Hotel Chocolat

There are many, many, many British chocolate brands, from Galaxy to Cadbury.

But if you’re looking to get the best chocolates in London, try Hotel Chocolat.

They’re pricey but still affordable, and the taste is absolutely gorgeous – and there are plenty of branches in London!

Best Things to Buy in London: Street Food

Getting street food in London is one of the best nontouristy things to do – at least in my opinion.

Whether you set out on a quest to find the best cheap eats in London or just want to discover anything from Mexican food to Korean BBQ , you’ll find something here.

London is one of the food capitals in the world; anything you wish for, you’ll find here.

A few options:

Chinatown Bakery, Chinatown
Franco Manca , Soho
Pizza Pilgrims, Covent Garden
Rossopomodoro, Camden (all three offer some of the cheapest pizza in London)
Chinese Tapas House, Chinatown

Best Things to Buy in London: An Umbrella at James Smith & Sons

James Smith & Sons is one of the oldest and most instagrammable shops in London .

Established in 1830 close to the Oxfam Bookshop on Bloomsbury St, James Smith & Sons does one thing, and does it well.

Their umbrellas are some of the most famous you will find here, and well, if you’re looking for the best things to buy in London and actually use…

An umbrella will always come in handy.

Best Things to Buy in London: McVities Digestives

There are plenty of cool British biscuit brands, but McVitie’s are some of the most famous.

The plain digestives are what you usually eat at tea time, but you will also find some milk chocolate and caramel versions.

McVitie’s can be found in pretty much all the good supermarkets in London, from Tesco to Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury’s.

And if you’re looking for ways to eat in London on a budget , you’ll also find pretty good alternatives at shops like Iceland and Lidl.

Best Things to Buy in London: A WH Smith Notebook

If you ever ask me about my favorite branded notebooks , I’ll tell you without hesitation about the WH Smith A5 Chunky Spiral notebooks.

I’ve loved them and used them for years .

Along with my laptop, they’re pretty much the only other item when I’m walking and looking for new cafes to work in London .

There are often some really good deals on WH Smith stationery online and in store.

Plus, their cute collections are some of the best things to buy in London , keep, or gift.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Kurt Geiger Bag

Kurt Geiger is one of the most famous British fashion brands, and one of my favorite.

Actually, I’ve had my sights on the Kurt Geiger Kensington bag I’ve included above for quite some time.

Getting a beautiful black or multicolor Kurt Keiger handbag in London is probably the poshest thing you can do while being here.

Other than visiting Aqua Kyoto in Soho , that is.

My favorite Kurt Geiger shop is the one in Westfield Stratford, one of the best shopping centers in London , where you’ll find dozens of other gift options.

Best Things to Buy in London: Shoes from JD Sports and Office

I love buying new sneakers – I’ve always been that way and well, London offers plenty options to find affordable sneakers.

Two of my favorite sneakers shops in London are JD Sports and Office, if you don’t count Dr Martens for more edgy stuff.

And if you want to find some cheap clothes in London, there are plenty of shops on Oxford Street close to JD Sports and Office!

Best Things to Buy in London: Home Decor at TK Maxx & Homesense

Some of the best things to buy in London for souvenirs and for home, if you live here, is anything home decor from TK Maxx and Homesense.

There are quite a few cheap homeware stores in London, and these are two of my favorites.

From TK Maxx candles to Homesense furniture and decor, you’ll find plenty of discounted items there.

But if you like homeware and are someday looking for hidden gems in London , take a look at the Timothy Oulton shop – you won’t believe your eyes.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Teapot

A teapot seems like one of the most classic gifts from London you can treat yourself or a beloved to.

You’ll find them in all the good homeware and home decor shops in London, as well as shopping centers.

You can find teapots in places like John Lewis, Whittard’s, Selfridges,…

The price does vary, but my pick would be the Whittard’s Alice in Wonderland teapots!

Best Things to Buy in London: Harry Potter Merch

There are about a dozen Harry Potter shops in London , some of them right in the heart of Soho, where I just love to hang out.

It just feels right that some of the best souvenirs to buy from London would be some items of Harry Potter merch.

If you’re traveling to London just for the sake of seeing Harry Potter locations, then King’s Cross Station’s Platform 9 ¾ is a place that makes sense to visit.

There’s a bit of wait, but the shop is filled with wands, stationery, capes and more.

But honestly, even going to the Lego Store on Leicester Square makes for one of the best Harry Potter things to do in London – and you can obviously get some HP souvenirs!

Otherwise, try the shop at the Warner Bros Harry Potter studios ; there’s everything you might wish for there.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Jellycat Plush from Card Stores

The first time I moved to London in 2019, one of the things that caught my attention straight away is how many card stores there are.

Card Factory and the like tend to also sell stationery, small gifts and…

Jellycat plush toys.

They’re my favorite in the whole wide world – I used to have the Jellycat coffee cup plush at some point and loved it.

If you’re looking for cool things to buy in London for kids and adults, you have plenty of Jellycat plush toys all around London, and even in Waterstones.

Best Things to Buy in London: British Souvenirs with the Flag

British souvenirs with the flag make for one of the cringiest souvenirs in my opinion, and I feel the same way about buying such things in any country.

Does it stop me from doing it?

You have lots of souvenir shops in Central London , around Portobello Market, Covent Garden and other touristic areas.

A magnet, a pen, a keychain – they’re super cheap and still some of the best gifts from London when you’re traveling on a budget .

Best Things to Buy in London: Cheap Clothes at Outlets in London

The London Designer Outlet (pictured above) is one of my favorite shopping outlets in London, and I can’t remember how many things I bought there.

Sometimes, you visit a new city and need some new clothes, or some new shoes.

This happened to me when traveling to London for the first time in 2014.

I didn’t gauge the weather properly and ended up coming with the most padded Sketchers boots you’ve ever seen.

Which is why I needed to find a cheap shoe shop, because I hadn’t planned on this expense.

You’ll find lots of cool clothes from Nike, Adidas, Superdrug, M&S, and even Kurt Geiger there, and the address might very well come in handy!

Best Things to Buy in London: Meal Deals from Supermarkets

It might seem a bit awkward, but when you’re traveling to London on a budget, you’ll see that one of the best things to buy here are meal deals.

They saved me many times when I was far from home (North Finchley, Tottenham etc are about 45/60 mns from Central London by bus).

Just walking around the city, finding secret free rooftops and other beautiful places to visit while eating a meal deal?

One of the easiest date ideas in London in my opinion.

Best Things to Buy in London: Liberty of London Fabric

Right off Carnaby Street, you have Selfridges, one of the best department stores in London.

I’d be lying if I said the Liberty of London fabric was the only thing to buy there.

Actually, from Penhaligon’s perfumes to home decor, luxury skincare brands and beautiful makeup, there’s more than the eye believes at Liberty.

Right across the road, you also have the most beautiful Lavazza coffee shop I’ve ever seen, which doubles as one of the best Italian cafes in London .

Best Things to Buy in London: Vintage Clothes at Brick Lane

Brick Lane is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in London and, I mean, what can’t you do in Brick Lane?

It offers some of the most famous markets in Shoreditch , for starters, with food, books, and fashion mixed.

Some of the best bagels in London are located there, at Beigel Shop Brick Lane .

Then, you also have plenty of street art in Brick Lane that is definitely worth a second and a third glance.

Lots of beautiful cafes in Brick Lane , like Kahaila, where I love going to do some work on my laptop.

And of course, the vintage shops.

You’ll find anything from hats to sunglasses, old biker jackets and lots of denim – and you can find a good bargain there!

Best Things to Buy in London: A Suit on Savile Row

Savile Row is not only one of the most famous film locations in London (The Kingsman).

It’s also the part of London that sets the trends for male and female fashion around the world, with old tailor shops and newcomers on the street.

Count a minimum of four figures for a beautiful suit, and women will be able to find dresses, skirts and shirts in this Mayfair street .

High end British couture brands definitely seem like some of the best things to buy in London , so why not?

Best Things to Buy in London: Artisan Accessories at the V&A Museum

One of the best free museums in London is the Victoria & Albert Museum, and I might be biased, but I love their fashion collection.

I used to be a fashion makeup artist , and I’m still very much hung up on anything fashion, from jewelry to makeup.

The gift shops in London museums are always filled with beautiful, witty books and lots of souvenirs you can’t find in other places.

And the Victoria & Albert Museum also offers capsule collections for their special exhibitions – from jewelry to clothes and books, you’ll have it all there.

Best Things to Buy in London: Art in Mayfair Art Galleries

You’ll find plenty of art galleries when walking around that area – and that’s something you should definitely do if you like finding pretty neighborhoods in London .

On New Bond Street, more specifically, you have some of my favorite art galleries, with Eden Gallery pictured above.

Lots of beautiful, controversial, contemporary art.

If you have the budget, a small piece of art is another one of the best things to buy in London.

Otherwise, you have some of the prettiest streets in London all around, if you just want to walk area a posh area.

Best Things to Buy in London: Brunch in Instagrammable Cafes

Does it count if it’s brunch?

It always counts when it’s brunch in London .

One of the best things to spend your money on when traveling to London for the first time is trying a proper brunch.

Or a Full English breakfast .

From cute breakfast spots in Notting Hill to lively brunch in King’s Cross , you won’t know where to start.

Luckily, I’ve already written about some of the most instagrammable cafes in London for you, so all that’s left for you is to choose the vibe!

Best Things to Buy in London: Travel Items at Stanfords

Stanfords is one of the most famous bookshops in London, and a travel bookshop at that.

Located close to Long Acre (where you’ll find one of the best budget shops in London , a huge TK Maxx), Stanfords is colorful.

That’s the place where you can buy a book to plan your next travel, gifts and globes.

Lots of globes.

Best Things to Buy in London: Tea & Macarons at Fortnum & Mason

One of my favorite places for macarons in London is Fortnum & Masons.

Yes, I’m French, and yes, I love Laduree macarons, but there’s honestly better in my opinion.

Like the Pierre Herme macarons, and like the Fortnum & Masons macarons.

The beautiful department store is located on Piccadilly, close to Hatchards and some of the best study cafes in Mayfair .

Beautiful sights, and you can also have afternoon tea at Fortnum & Masons if you’d like a shot of posh Britishness.

Best Things to Buy in London: Football Items

There are lots of football stadiums in London and I couldn’t say for certain which is more famous than the next.

I used to live in Tottenham, and at the end of my road, there are the Tottenham Hotspurs Stadium.

What a great feeling to see people getting ready for the match, and seeing the street food vans on my road…

Good times.

For football fans, you can buy lots of football items at the stadium shops, from Tottenham to Arsenal, Wembley and Chelsea.

Best Things to Buy in London: Lush Products

Lush products are some of the best skincare products I’ve ever tried, and some of my favorite massage bars and solid shampoos come from Lush.

The only thing I dislike there?

The Lush candles – totally not worth it.

For those looking for the best things to buy in London for people who don’t have access to a Lush store, that’s a good gift option.

Best Things to Buy in London: Stationery & More from Brand Academy

Brand Academy in the Oxo Tower, on Southbank, is one of my favorite shops in London.

The adjacent Coffee Academy coffee shop is also one of my favorite places to write in London .

You have a view on the water, some of the best hot chocolate in London and doughnuts from Crosstown Doughnuts – what’s not to like?

These are already two of the best things to buy in London, if you ask me.

However, at Brand Academy, you’ll find lots of underrated brands, from scented candles to home decor, plush toys and stationery.

Best Things to Buy in London: A Book from Daunt Books

Daunt Books is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful bookshops in London , but it’s also filled with potential gifts.

For whoever wants to find cool gifts and souvenirs from London, you’ll find lots of accessories, wrapping paper, stationery, and more at Daunt Books.

It’s located close to some of the best study cafes in Marylebone as well, so a visit to Daunt Books can only be inspiring.

Best Things to Buy in London: Molton Brown Bodycare

Molton Brown is one of the best shops on Regent Street, and the bodycare and candles they sell are incredible.

You can really smell the Britishness oozing through the hand wash and body lotion, and you have plenty of different branches in London.

Molton Brown is more of a high end British skincare brand, a little bit like what Marks & Spencer is to food shops in London.

Perfect if you’re looking to bring back local gifts from London to beloveds!

And there you have it, my complete London gift guide for women, men, kids and anyone looking for the best things to buy in London!

I have designed this guide both for locals living in London on a budget or not, and people traveling to London the first, second, third or dozen time.

Hopefully, you’ll have found here some really worthwhile souvenirs and gifts from London – enjoy the shopping!

Until next time!

The Working Line

Sam is a certified fashion makeup artist, a freelance writer, a blogger and a digital nomad. Since 2019, she roams around the world, from London to Rome and shares her knowledge about makeup, scented candles, travel, blogging and the digital nomad lifestyle.

The Working Line https://theworkingline.com/author/theworkingline/ The Curious Traveler's Guide to Fleet Street, London's Historic Publishing Street
The Working Line https://theworkingline.com/author/theworkingline/ The Curious Traveler's Guide to Bethnal Green, East London's Urban Neighborhood
The Working Line https://theworkingline.com/author/theworkingline/ The Curious Traveler's Guide to Covent Garden, London
The Working Line https://theworkingline.com/author/theworkingline/ The Curious Traveler's Guide to Smithfield, London's Forgotten Neighborhood

The Insider’s Guide to London

Culture leaders from the worlds of fashion, art, design and food share their favorite spots in the famously multicultural city.

Ever wish you could text the most stylish people in the world to ask them for their lists of things to do in the places they know best? Here are insider travel tips for those who would never be caught dead in a tourist trap. Bon voyage!

Four culture-shaping Londoners from the worlds of fashion, food, art, and design share how best to experience this sprawling city known for its vibrant multiculturalism and rich history: London native Priya Ahluwalia, creative director and founder of fashion brand Ahluwalia ; British designer Faye Toogood of the clothing, furniture, and decor brand Toogood , a London resident for the past 25 years; Gallerist Pilar Corrias, owner of her eponymous galleries in Mayfair and a London resident for the past 30 years; and Sebastian Myers, cooking in London for the past 12 years and the current Chef of Planque , a restaurant and wine club in the Haggerston neighborhood.

What to Bring

London’s rain has everyone highlighting waterproof gear. Umbrellas and a raincoat are a must.

Burberry Mid-length Kensington Heritage Trench Coat

Ahluwalia recommends a pair of trainers (British for sneakers) for walking around, while Corrias cites a sweater for all seasons — even in the summer, it gets chilly at night. (If you forget one, she loves the local cashmere purveyors N. Peal and Brora. )

N. Peal Women's Covent Fine Guage Cashmere Round Neck Sweater

Due to the city’s sprawl — “think nothing of sitting on the tube or in a taxi for 40-50 minutes to go East to West” — Toogood emphasizes the need for a good book, as well as ear plugs and an eye mask for sleeping due to the noise and light pollution around hotels. And for the bold? A bathing suit “for a wild swim in Hampstead Heath,” she adds, referring to the swimming ponds in one of London’s most iconic parks.

What to Leave Behind

Myers questions the necessity of cash “as fewer and fewer places take it these days.” Per Ahluwalia, “huge backpacks are generally a way to annoy people on the tube.” Everyone aligns on otherwise feeling pretty unfettered. “It’s London, you can wear whatever you feel like,” says Myers, recommending following RHOC on Instagram “to find out all the latest trends.” Toogood echoes the sentiment: “Anything goes. Feel free to fully express yourself: a cocktail dress at breakfast or walking boots in a fine dining restaurant is totally acceptable.” There are nuances though, particularly in more buttoned up West London, “slightly more flashy or conservative in style than other parts of London,” Toogood caveats.

What to Keep in Mind

An open mind and an appreciation for diversity are essential, explains Ahluwalia . When navigating the tube (London’s subway system), always stand to the right side of the escalator and mind your own business. “Don’t stare, speak to or smile at anyone on the underground. Everyone is head down,” states Toogood, who also advises buying a daily travel card for zones 1-6. The tube and buses are the most affordable way to get around (Ahluwalia likes sitting on the top deck to see the sites).

When riding in black cabs, tell the driver the address before you get into the car, and don’t be afraid to engage in conversation, “if you want to find out about landmarks on your journey or British politics,” adds Toogood. As for general codes of conduct? Tipping is not expected, but if desired, 10-20% is good. And be very polite. The well mannered Brits appreciate pleases, thank yous, and sorrys, “Even when you’re not – especially when you’re not!” adds Corrias. “And respect the queue!”

Where to Stay

The NoMad in central London comes up more than once. Toogood loves the “interiors, party atmosphere, and individual approach to rooms” while Myers notes their restaurant’s “banging carnitas.”

NoMad London

The Standard also comes recommended, as do the Hoxton Hotels — a favorite of Ahluwalia’s for their multiple buzzy locations. For more boutique options, Toogood points to Artist Residence in Pimlico and The Mandrake in Fitzrovia, while Myers spotlights The Zetter in Clerkenwell and The Rose and Crown in Stoke Newington for a classic British feel.

Artist Residence

For something grand and glamorous, Corrias recommends The Connaught or Claridges , both of which are “extremely well-located — great for shopping, seeing art, and getting round the rest of town — and close to my gallery!”

The Connaught

Where to Start the Day

When it comes to breakfast, loyalties run deep. Corrias loves Norman’s Cafe in Tufnell Park, “a cool greasy spoon for a proper fry up.”

Norman’s London

Two men enjoying a meal at Norman's Restaurant in London

For time travel, she’s partial to Paul Rothe & Son in Marylebone, “a charming, old-fashioned British sandwich shop and deli. Run by the same family since 1900.”

Paul Rothe & Son

Ahluwalia frequents the “stunning,” art-filled Berners Tavern in Fitzrovia. Myers loves Snackbar in Dalston, for its “cute little backyard, tasty food, cocktails, and coffee.” Batch Baby on De Beauvoir Road is also on his list for coffee, and Towpath , “an institution where you can sit by a canal, eat various tasty things on toast, hang out and watch the world go by.”

A view of a London canal from Towpath, a café

For coffee, Toogood nods to Allpress , Monmouth or Omotesando Koffee . For food, she champions La Fromagerie , “the best place for cheese in London and amazing breakfasts beyond cheese.”

La Fromagerie

For unique pastries, she’s partial to Toad in Peckham, and St. JOHN Bakery in Bermondsey for the best jam donuts.

Toad Bakery

Where to Eat

British food gets a bad rap, but London’s dining scene has undergone a vibrant renaissance over the past decade. For a neighborhood restaurant, Brawn on Columbia Road is “as close to perfect” as you’ll get, promises Myers. For a wine bar with “pared back but super nuanced food,” he lists Cadet in Stoke Newington. For “various flatbreads, offals, and pure flavor driven cooking,” he thinks Black Axe Mangal is not to be missed, located in a tiny, energetic room with a big wood burning oven. His last must visit: Quality Wines in Farringdon, for “the most unpretentious, exciting, and keyed in cooking.”

Quality Wines

For classics, Corrias loves J Sheekey , where they’ve been “shucking oysters since Victorian times,” Rochelle Canteen , a modern European restaurant she thinks epitomizes the London restaurant scene (also adored by Awhuwalia and Toogood); MiMi Mei Fair for pretty interiors and fantastic Chinese food; and for summertime dining, Petersham Nurseries in Richmond, “filled with flowers and just magical.” Ahluwalia loves West African inspired Akoko in Fitzrovia for its “amazingly experimental menu,” Gold on Portobello Road when exploring Notting Hill, and Dishoom for Indian food, “a chain but a great one.” For more Indian food, the Southall or Tooting districts are where to find the most authenticity.

A dimly lit room at Gold, a bar in London

Toogood will always hold a candle to St. JOHN Bread and Wine , where she hosted her wedding lunch. Their menu reflects iconic English chef Fergus Henderson’s “nose to tail eating.” But, says Toogood, “If you don’t want the pigs’ ears, bone marrow and ducks’ hearts (why wouldn’t you?!) then no fear, the vegetables are incredible.” Her fine dining choice is Spring at Somerset House where the “seasonal produce and creative plating” of chef Skye Gyngell keeps her coming back. Her choice for quick and easy is Leila’s Cafe . “You can take a tiffin tin [a lunch box popular in Asia and the Caribbean] to pick the daily dish for lunch or eat in… I always feel comfortable eating solo here.”

Leila's Shop

For a more social spot, Toogood enjoys Sessions Art Club . She calls it “a sanctuary for artists and arty types to have fun, eat incredible food and enjoy exhibitions and performances.” And for an eatery unlike any other, she suggests Cycene in Shoreditch, an innovative, multi-space tasting menu experience. “Book well in advance,” she warns, “there is only room for 15 people.”

Sessions Art Club

Where to Shop

For books, Corrias is fond of London Review Bookshop in Bloomsbury. For clothes, head to Savile Row where she likes The Deck for women’s tailoring. After a big night, “if you’re feeling a tad delicate” she urges a visit to the old school pharmacy D.R. Harris & Co in St. James’s for their Original Pick-Me-Up, “a hangover cure they’ve been selling since 1860!” Myers enjoys Leila’s Shop (connected to the cafe where Toogood likes her solo lunches) for food shopping, and Klei , a shop on Hackney Road where you’ll find work by local ceramists. Ahluwalia points to Notting Hill’s Portobello Road . “Although pricier,” she says of the weekend market there, “it’s full of amazing vintage and antique pieces.” She urges visiting on a Friday or Sunday as Saturdays can be hectic.

London Review Bookshop

For independent fashion, Toogood likes Dover Street Market on the Haymarket, Egg on Kinnerton Street, and Mouki Mou in Marylebone. For perfumes and custom fragrances: Perfumer H . For beautiful and affordable craft and ceramics: The Lacquer Chest on Kensington Church Street for English antiques and Momosan Shop in East London for independent homeware. For art, fashion, and photo books: Claire de Rouen . For “stationary heaven”: Choosing Keeping . And lastly, for beautiful teaware: Postcard Teas .

Dover Street Market

Where to Look at Art

London’s cultural offerings are vast.“I personally love the V&A , the Tate Modern and The Design Museum ,” says Ahluwalia.

A gallery at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London

For older works, both Toogood and Corrias love Sir John Soan’s Museum in Holborn, the historic home of an architect and collector with a singular vision . “Every surface, from floor to ceiling, is covered with paintings, sculptures, Classical architectural fragments, ancient relics and drawings. The best time to visit is during their special evening openings, when the artifacts are illuminated by candlelight,” raves Corrias.

Sir John Soan’s Museum

Toogood also recommends the Garden Museum , which is housed in a former church, for all things horticultural. For more contemporary works, she’s partial to South London Gallery , Sprüth Magers , Hauser & Wirth , Raven Row , Newport Street Gallery , and White Cube — the latter of which is a favorite of Myers as well. “Always amazing shows, free, and not giant so it makes for a nice visit,” he says. “The National Gallery ’s later Friday hours also make for a lovely evening wander.”

The contemporary building that houses White Cube gallery

Where to Unwind

To get the blood pumping, Ahluwalia likes Soul Cycle for spinning and Blok for their variety of exercises: boxing to reformer pilates to HIIT. For something lower octane, Myers walks in Epping Forest and enjoys the saunas at Hackney Wick . “It’s not flash… like at all, it’s in a carpark with packing pellets everywhere, but it’s a fun little thing to do on a day off.”

Epping Forest

For something glam, Toogood recommends Aire Ancient Baths in Covent Garden for Roman-inspired candlelit baths beneath a 17th century building. “This is a truly unique experience and the closest you will get to bathing in the Red Sea in London. The massages are really relaxing, and all the hot pools do the trick when it comes to relaxation.” For yoga, she likes Mission on Fashion Street, and for grooming she visits Josh Wood Colour for hair treatments and Teresa Tarmey for facials.

Aire Ancient Baths

Where to Get Some Fresh Air

“London is one of the greenest cities in the world,” says Ahluwalia. But if she had to choose her favorite parks, she’d say: St James’s , Regents Park and Hyde Park in central London, Hampstead Heath in North London, and Battersea Park in South London.

An aerial view of the several pathways meeting in Hyde Park

For views of beautiful houses, she also likes to cycle from Notting Hill to Primrose Hill along Regents Canal . Corrias’s preferred bike route goes from Primrose Hill to Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath. Around her galleries in Mayfair, Mount Street Gardens “ is a lovely place to take a breather during a busy afternoon of gallery hopping.”

Primrose Hill

Myers enjoys walking down the canals from Clapton up towards River Lea. “There’s a bunch of cozy pubs , interesting people and views,” he describes. For Toogood, Hampstead Heath can’t be beat, for walks, runs, fitness classes, dogs, picnics, and wild swimming at the ponds. “This is the closest you can get to nature and the feeling of the countryside in London,” she details.

Where to Have a Cocktail

Drinks choices are as robust as dining, here falling across 3 categories: the classic pubs London is known for, cocktail bars, and the newer age wine bars. Corrias’s favorite pubs are The Holly Bush in Hampstead, The Grenadier in Belgravia, and The Lord Stanley in Camden. She adds a tip: “Everything closes in London at 11pm, but if you’re a member of a private club you can continue into the small hours — I love Brydges Place Club and Maison Estelle .” Myer’s picks: Duke’s “for two martinis (that’s the rule),” A Bar with Shapes for a Name (or Shapes), open later than other bars in the area and located near his restaurant, Seed Library under 100 Shoreditch for “cozy and laid back” vibes, and his go-to wine bar: Hector’s in De Beauvoir.

Seed Library

Ahluwalia says to start with a neighborhood, she likes Soho for a night out in the bars. More specifically, she presents Spiritland in Kings Cross “a listening bar that often has interesting resident DJs playing vinyl,” Moko in Tottenham, and its sister bar Jumbi in Peckham, both Black-owned with “the best vinyl collections.”

Toogood’s list is vast. For a classic pick: Claridge’s Champagne Bar . “I feel like I am in a 1930’s film when I sit and drink champagne in this bar,” she raves. “It’s worth going for the Art Deco bathrooms alone.” For pubs, she bemoans how many have transformed into more upscale restaurants but says The Eagle in Clerkenwell or The Lamb & Flag in Covent Garden are still the real deal for a good pint. For cocktails: Hacha “for some Mezcal soaked up with their Tacos.” For low-intervention wines: Bambi in Hackney, “so not for the classicists but a really fun night if you stay for small plates.”

A table seen from overhead filled with plates of food

Where to Stay Up Late

On Thursdays, Gaz’s Rockin’ Blues at St Moritz in Soho is the place to be, says Corrias, “until the bleary hours. You’re guaranteed fun music, a cool crowd, and some wild future anecdotes.” Myers finds fun at Fold , and appreciates the DJs at Brilliant Corners , who, he notes, stays open late on Bank Holiday sundays. For “well-programed” nightlife that stays open until the early morning hours, Ahluwalia turns to Avalon Cafe or Venue M.O.T , adding that the iconic club Fabric is an institution worth visiting. For a more laid back vibe, Toogood enjoys Church of Sound and Wilton Music Hall for a drink and some contemporary music and performance.

View on Instagram

Both Corrias and Toogood cite Frieze Week in early October as an electric time to visit London. “It’s when all the best exhibitions, dinners, and parties happen,” says Corrias. “The kids are all back to school, the parks are particularly beautiful, and the international art crowd are in town for people watching,” echoes Toogood. For Myers it’s all about the spring, “a time to be outside, drink in a park or wander from pub to pub on a Sunday afternoon.” Ahluwalia loves the city in the summer as it’s a time for many of London’s music festivals and outdoor pop-up events.

Toogood struggles to talk about London as a whole due to the many worlds it contains. “It is a series of villages to discover and every one of those villages has its own vibe.” To her, the city represents expression and freedom. She advises accepting that you’ll never get it all in one go. It’s a place to return. “Focus on one or two areas and focus on those in depth. Acknowledge and feel the difference between those two areas. This is how to get the most of it.”

“I don’t know anywhere in the world that is as multicultural,” agrees Corrias. This history feeds the hyper accessible, creative scene in a way unrivaled by most cities. “Most exhibitions and museums are free, and have such a broad offering of theater, dance and opera that only New York can rival.” Myers touches on the unique paradox that is London: its enormity and its hyperlocality. “It’s a sprawling, historic, weird, fun, annoying, magic city with a lot to offer. For music, art, food, pints or late night kebabs (normally in that order) it’s got a lot to offer. There’s always something new.”

Ahluwalia ties it up nicely: “The people that would love London the most are the ones looking for a bit of an adventure.”

London’s skyline at sunset

Grand Canyon
Gold Country
California Coast
Los Angeles
Mammoth Lakes
death valley
Lassen Volcanic
Sequoia & Kings Canyon Park
Yosemite Park
napa valley
step Robles
Santa Cruz Mountains
Santa Ynez Valley
Sonoma Valley
San Francisco
Silicon Valley
Shasta & surroundings
Valley of Fire Park
Philadelphia
Monument Valley
Washington DC
London outskirts
Bournemouth
Deal & surroundings
Hastings & surroundings
Salisbury & Stonehenge
Sandringham
Sheffield & surroundings
Southampton
Stratford-Upon-Avon
Niagara Falls
Ottawa & Gatineau
Québec City
Trois-Rivières
Easter Island
Krabi & Phi Phi Islands
Oberammergau
Romantic Route
Knokke-Heist
Zaanse Schans
Northern Ireland countryside
Cinque Terre
San Gimignano
NEW ZEALAND
HOTEL RESERVATION
TICKETS AND EXCURSIONS
TICKETS AND TOURS
SPORTS EVENTS TICKETS
AIRPORT TRANSFER
INTERNATIONAL SIM CARD
BAGGAGE SHIPPING
TRAVEL INSURANCE
TOURIST VISAS
PURCHASE FOREIGN CURRENCY
INTERNATIONAL PREPAID CARD

England: 10 must-see stores in London

Last updated: 05/20/2020

Check out our guide to 10 must-see shops in London that can't be missed. Even if your goal is not to buy, many of them are very interesting, historical or fun and are worth a visit.

10 UNMISSSIBLE SHOPS IN LONDON

We have already written a very complete post about “ Shopping in London: A Practical Guide to Shops, Streets and Neighborhoods “. In this post, the idea is to select some places you should go even if you have no interest in shopping, since they are stores that end up being attractions, as they tell part of the city's history. In the interactive map below, we put our 10 suggestions of must-see shops in London that we believe are worth including in your itinerary around the city. With this map, it will be easier for you to schedule yourself to know them, taking the opportunity to visit when you are close by at another station. Next, we will talk a little more about each of them.

1. DAUNT BOOKS

Opened in 1912, Daunt Books is a beautiful chain of bookstores specialized in travel books . Although it has other units in the City of London in Chelsea, Holland Park, Cheapside, Hampstead and Belsize Park, the most famous unit is the one located in Marylebone. Daunt Books organizes its sections geographically, with guidebooks, phrase books, travel writings, history and fiction grouped by relevant countries.

Address: 84 Marylebone High St, Marylebone, London W1U 4QW, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 7:30 pm | Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm

Shopping in London: A Practical Guide to Shops, Streets and Neighborhoods

The Hamleys is not only the oldest but also the largest toy store in the world . It was founded in 1760 in a location in the High Holborn area and moved to Regent Street in 1881, where it still stands today. And it's not just any store, as the more than 50,000 toys on sale occupy 5,000 m², spread over 7 floors of the store. The store sells toys, plush toys, games, dolls, building blocks, video games, school supplies and many other products. More than 5 million people pass through Hamleys every year, looking for a variety of gift items from basic toys to the most sophisticated and rare.

Address: 88-196 Regent St, Soho, London W1B 5BT, England
Schedules: Monday to Friday from 10 am to 9 pm / Saturday from 9:30 am to 9 pm / Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm

4. LEGO STORE

Lego is a Danish company, founded in 1949, whose toy line consists of interconnectable multicolored plastic building blocks that come with a set of gears, figurines and various other pieces. There are many Lego store units scattered around the planet, but the biggest lego store in the world is in London. Opened on November 17, 2016, the largest Lego store in the world has 914 m², spread over 2 floors of pure fun. To give you an idea of the grandeur of this store, right in the window is a replica of the Big Ben Clock Tower, one of London's symbols, over 6 meters high, made with 200,000 Lego blocks and which took 2,280 hours to complete. be completed! The clock actually works and is illuminated at night.

Address: 3 Swiss Court, London W1D 6AP, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 10 pm / Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm

6. M&M'S WORLD

M&Ms are confectionery, originally made of milk chocolate, covered in a colored "shell" with a capital "M". They began to be produced in 1941 and quickly spread to more than 100 countries around the world. There are only 5 M&Ms stores in the entire world. The London unit is the largest M&M's store in the world , with 3,250 m², spread over 4 floors (ground floor, two basements and an upper floor) with lots of fun. An extensive range of M&Ms chocolates and merchandise including kitchenware, clothing, bedding, jewelry and glassware are for sale at the London location.

Address: Swiss Court, 1 Leicester Square, London W1D 6AP
Schedules: Monday to Saturday 10am to midnight / Sunday noon to 6pm

7. SELFRIDGES LONDON

Founded in 1908, Selfridges is a chain of high-end department stores in London. The most famous unit takes up an entire block on Oxford Street in London. She is the second largest store in the UK (after Harrods). The foundation of the store's success was its innovative marketing. Its founder, Harry Gordon Selfridge, tried to make shopping a fun adventure and a form of leisure, turning the department store into a meeting place. Keeping in mind the importance of creating a welcoming environment, merchandise was placed on display for customers to peruse, moved the perfume counter to the front and center of the store, and established policies that made shopping safe and secure. easy for customers. These techniques have been adopted by modern department stores around the world.

Address: 400 Oxford St, Marylebone, London W1A 1AB, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 8 pm (until 9 pm on Thursdays) | Sunday from 11:30 am to 6:15 pm

8. THE HARRY POTTER SHOP AT PLATFORM 9¾

The official Harry Potter store is located between Platforms 9 and 10 of the King's Cross train station, in the space that would be platform 9¾, as reported in the books and films of the saga. There you will find a huge variety of products, such as books, clothes, costumes, mugs, cell phone cases, toys, souvenirs and collectibles of the most famous wizard in the world. Many of these articles are unique and not found anywhere else in the world. Take advantage of the visit to the store to take a photo with the luggage cart that enters the wall, which is right next to it, to feel in the mood of the stories. Go early or late in the day, as the lines for photos are usually long.

Address: Pancras Rd, Kings Cross, London N1 9AP, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 10 pm | Sunday from 9 am to 9 pm

Founded in 1706, Twinings is an English tea company known the world over as one of England's most traditional teas. For over 300 years, the tea shop has existed at the same address! This is London's oldest shop, selling on the same site with the same family, and the same products, tea and coffee. In the store, there is a colorful shelf with hundreds of sachets in colorful packaging. Various accessories and many products are on sale in special gift packaging. Even those who are not a big fan of tea will be delighted with the organization of the store and the delicious smell of tea.

Address: 216 Strand, London WC2R 1AP
Schedules: Monday to Friday from 9:30 am to 7 pm / Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm / Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm

10. WATERSTONES PICCADILLY

Waterstones is a bookstore chain that operates over 280 stores in the UK and neighboring countries. The main and largest of these stores is in Piccadilly, one of the most famous and tourist areas of London and is considered the Europe's biggest bookstore . This store, located in a building of modernist architecture from the 1930s, has about 14 km of shelves spread over 6 floors!

Address: 203-206 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1J 9HD, England
Schedules: Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 9:30 pm | Sunday from 12pm to 5pm

Save these tips to Pinterest!

England: 10 must-see stores in London - Travelers | https://viajonarios.com/lojas-imperdiveis-em-londres/ | #viajonarios #londres #london #england #ingland #shops #shopping #buying #stores

ARE YOU GOING TO TRAVEL? SCHEDULE YOUR TRIP HERE!

hotel reservation : use the booking.com to book your accommodation, car rental : get a quote at rentcars and check the price at the main rental companies in the world, tickets & tours : buy tickets to the world's top attractions online with get your guide , tickets & tours : buy tickets for tours and guided tours online at civitatis , sports events tickets : buy tickets to major us sporting events online with hellotickets , travel insurance : quote with the promo insurance for different plans and destinations. use code "viajonarios5" to guarantee 5% off, train in europe : buy your train tickets at the best prices at trainline , international cell phone chip with the easysim4u and leave with the chip working before travelling, purchase of foreign currency with the best exchange rates with exchange now , related articles more from the author.

Hawaii: Asian Food at Lineage Restaurant on Maui

Montreal: Accommodation at Le Square Phillips Hotel & Suites

Canada: Vegan food at Bistro Tendresse in Montreal

Leave your comment cancel comment.

Save my name, email and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

26 Unique Bookstores To Visit In London

Destinations
United Kingdom

London is a reader’s dream — and a shopper’s dream as well. However, exactly how many bookstores are in London is a bit of a mystery. According to one map online, there are 112 independent bookshops in the British capital. But based on my own knowledge, there are oodles more, mostly little secondhand shops tucked into corners all around the city. Then there are the non-independent stores, the regional chains, and the global powerhouses. Add in the kiosks at train stations, museums, and multi-purpose stores, and the number of book-selling establishments must push close to 1,000. That’s great news if you’re a reader like me!

Travis & Emery and Watkins bookshops in Covent Garden.

Some of these shops are more than just a place to buy a book or two. They’re legends in their own right, acting as community hubs and welcoming tourists as if they’re locals. Here are some to put on your travel list, starting with general interest establishments and concluding with specialty shops.

1. Book Mongers (Brixton)

One of London’s best bookstores was founded by an American, Patrick Kelly. Dedicated fans of Book Mongers love the used bookstore’s cramped but well-organized shelves. Keep an eye out for Popeye, the scrappy resident shop cat, and be sure to ask for “Popeye’s Picks” when browsing the books.

2. Broadway Bookshop (London Fields)

You’ll likely spend a lot more time in Broadway Bookshop than you imagine, as there’s an entire basement you can’t see from the street, filled with fiction, local history, and kid’s books. They also have a small exhibition space where the art changes every 3 months or so.

3. Daunt Books (Marylebone)

Though Daunt Books has several locations, the Marylebone address is the clear place to be. This gorgeous shop is in an Edwardian building and boasts stained glass windows. Books are organized by country, rather than genre, which makes for a fun (and occasionally bamboozling) browsing experience.

100 year old eclectic bookshop Foyles in Charing Cross Road, Soho, London, UK.

4. Foyles (Charing Cross)

The world’s first purpose-built bookstore, Foyles covers every subject imaginable and also offers gifts, stationery, music, and magazines. This multi-level space in the heart of London boasts more than four miles of shelves across four floors, as well as a cafe, an auditorium, and a gallery.

This bus, in the bookshop Hatchards is called "Travels with Edward".

5. Hatchards (Picadilly)

The United Kingdom’s oldest surviving bookshop, shopping at Hatchards is an elegant and refined experience, with just a hint of whimsy — head up to the second-floor children’s section to see for yourself. During the annual Christmas Customer Evening, authors are on hand to mix and mingle with shoppers.

6. Heywood Hill (Mayfair)

Sophisticated and understated, Heywood Hill is located in a Georgian townhouse. Well known for antiquarian and children’s books, the store has held a royal warrant since 2011. Literary fans will be keen to know that novelist Nancy Mitford worked in the store during World War II.

Shop window displays the Hurlingham Books store close to Putney Bridge underground station in London. Fulham High Road.

7. Hurlingham Books (Fulham)

If you treat book shopping like a quest, Hurlingham Books is your kind of place. It is positively stacked from floor to ceiling, left to right, and what you’re seeing is just the tip of the iceberg. Over a million books are in their nearby warehouse.

8. John Sandoe Books (King’s Road)

Fans of John Sandoe’s often describe it as entering a Dickens novel. From the original tiny shop first established in 1957, the store has taken over two adjacent stores and is now stocked with more than 30,000 titles covering every surface — including the chairs!

9. Kirkdale Bookshop (Sydenham)

Part neighborhood bookshop and part cultural hub, Kirkdale hosts artwork and musical events. It offers a mix of new and secondhand books, prioritizing authors of color and LGBTQIA+ authors.

10. Liberia (Spitalfields)

In this bookshop founded by a tech entrepreneur, the vibe is decidedly analog. Mobile phones are banned! Yet Liberia’s design is very futuristic, with bright yellow shelves organized by theme to “maximize serendipity.”

Through the window of the London Review Cake Shop.

11. London Review Bookshop (Bloomsbury)

The London Review of Books is a literary periodical, but it also runs a cozy bookstore with a focus on classic fiction as well as new. They also operate a cake shop, which is absolutely delightful (and perhaps the reason this bookstore is so popular with writers).

12. Lutyens & Rubinstein (Notting Hill)

Chic, sleek, and well organized, Lutyens & Rubinstein is both bookshop and literary agency. They assembled their initial stock after surveying hundreds of readers (adults and kids), and, as such, every book here is essentially a personal recommendation.

13. Nomad Books (Fulham)

This casual, comfy space with squishy sofas is a favorite of writers and celebrities and has a strong community vibe with an excellent children’s section. Nomad Books has a good selection of French-language titles too.

A second hand book shop on Regent's Park Road, an attractive shopping street at the bottom of Primrose Hill, London.

14. Primrose Hill Books (Primrose Hill)

Hugely cozy, Primrose Hill Books is a family-run bookshop selling new and used titles and they occasionally host small literary events with big names. This is a good place to go to find works by local writers — some from right in their own neighborhood — and signed copies.

15. Review Bookshop (Peckham)

Review may just have bragging rights as London’s most dog-friendly bookstore. Pups are welcome to browse, the bookstore curates a list of dog-themed reads, and you can even submit a photo of your pooch to be featured on their website .

16. Waterstones Piccadilly (Piccadilly)

Admittedly, Waterstones Piccadilly is about as far from a cozy independent bookstore as you’ll find. Waterstones is a major chain, and its Piccadilly location is reputed to be Europe’s largest bookstore. But what it lacks in homey charm, it makes up for in amenities and titles. Located in central London, this is the perfect spot to hide away for a few hours when the rain hits.

Word on the Water: The Bookbarge Bookshop in London.

17. Word On The Water (King’s Cross)

If you’re going to make time for just one London bookstore, Word On The Water should be it. This new and used bookstore is actually a “book barge,” a 100+-year-old Dutch barge moored on Regent’s Canal. It’s quirky and fun and has bonafide literary chops, hosting musical performances and poetry slams.

18. Alice Through The Looking Glass (Covent Garden)

Alice Through The Looking Glass may just be the most special of all of London’s special interest booksellers. As the name suggests, it’s home to all things Alice , from pricey first editions to modern novelties. Browsers will also find a mini-museum and first editions of other childhood classics like the Harry Potter series. Located on Cecil Court, this store is part of “Bookseller’s Row,” the ideal place to browse for rare titles.

19. Arthur Probsthain (Bloomsbury)

This family-run bookstore has been in operation for over 100 years and specializes in titles related to global culture, specifically Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Their onsite tea room, Tea and Tattle , serves afternoon tea complete with scones and cakes and is also an excellent stop for an affordable lunch.

The famous 'Books for Cooks' bookshop and cooking school in Notting Hill, West London.

20. Books For Cooks (Notting Hill)

As the name suggests, Books for Cooks sells thousands of titles related to the culinary arts, from classic cookbooks to biographies. More than just booksellers, they have a tiny test kitchen where they put their inventory to the test. Nicknamed “the best smelling shop in the world,” you can even have lunch here.

21. Gay’s The Word (Bloomsbury)

The UK’s oldest LGBT bookshop sells new and used titles ranging from fiction to relationships to parenting. They’re also a hub of community activity, hosting discussion groups (including one that’s been around for 40 years!) and literary events.

22. Gosh! (Soho)

This amazing shop is dedicated to comics and graphic novels. It has titles for children and adults, including everything from mainstream selections to more obscure work from small-press publishers. They also stock rare used titles, signed books, and gifts.

23. Persephone (Bloomsbury)

Specializing in 20th-century female writers, Persephone only stocks what they themselves have printed. As such, they give a new lease of life to out-of-print writers. The books are just as nice to collect as they are to read, as they feature grey covers, bright linings, and forwards by famous authors.

24. Stanfords (Covent Garden)

One of the world’s premier travel bookstores, Stanfords is filled with travel guides, maps, literary adventures, cool gifts, and essential travel gear. Established in 1853, former customers include Florence Nightingale and Captain Robert Scott.

woman sitting in front of the famous Notting Hill bookshop, located at 13 Blenheim Crescent.

25. The Notting Hill Bookshop (Notting Hill)

Made famous by the 1999 film Notting Hill , this iconic bookstore with the bright blue sign does indeed specialize in travel books, though today The Notting Hill Bookshop has expanded to include general-interest titles (plus magnets with quotes from its namesake movie).

26. Travis & Emery (Covent Garden)

Another Cecil Court gem, Travis & Emery specializes in music, including rare, used, and collectible books, plus sheet music, playbills, photographs, and prints. Music fans will be equally enamored by the fact that Mozart once lived in this very building.

Here’s that map of London bookstores I found — but again, it only just scratches the surface.
Curious to hear what parents think about London’s bookshops for kids? This blog post offers an excellent roundup of London’s best bookstores for kids, perfect should you need to pick out a present for the little ones in your life.
There’s plenty more where this came from on TravelAwaits . Check out 9 Incredible Destinations For Book Lovers , 5 Of The Most Beautiful Libraries Around The World, and out literary sites section.

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

What to Pack for London: Packing List (2024 Update)

Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Wondering what to wear in London? This London packing list will help you plan for your dream trip. With a stylish wardrobe, you won’t look out of place with these tips!

What to Wear in London

Table of contents.

We want you to have a stress-free travel experience, and the main goal of this article is to help you plan your packing choices in an efficient way so you won’t be unprepared for your trip and know how to dress in London.

You’ll find insight on general London attire, in addition to visual examples of the type of clothing you might want to wear based on the weather and how to build a London wardrobe.

As a bonus, you will also learn some general travel tips including safety precautions such as using anti-theft products like this that can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

Please use the visuals in this post as a guideline to help you create London outfits and choose corresponding items based on your own style and clothing preferences.

Quince Italian Leather Crossbody Bag | Lo & Sons Rowledge Backpack

What Do People Wear in London?

When considering how to dress in London, it is important to remember that the city style is tailored and chic, yet conservative with an edge. Londoners love neutral colors and adhere to the “No more than 3 colors” rule.

To avoid standing out as a tourist, avoid items like original UGG boots, clunky tennis shoes, flip flops, and sweatpants. London clothes look presentable at all times; your goal is to maintain a comfortable look, while exuding femininity and edge.

In London, it’s easy for the traveler to stick out like a sore thumb in walking boots, convertible zip leg trousers , an SLR camera, guidebook, and a backpack. Wearing all this in the middle of London screams, “tourist”! That level of travel gear is more appropriate for countryside treks in the Lake District , for example, not a city.

British fashion isn’t quite as chic as the French , and it isn’t always as slouchy as American fashion or as zany as Australian fashion. It can be edgy or conservative. But one thing’s for sure: just like the rest of Europe, a good fit is key. And when in doubt, choose dressy over casual.

These are the most popular shoes for London for every season of the year!

what-to-pack-for-london-on-your-trip-to-the-united-kingdom

Columbia Pardon My Trench Rain Jacket (Plus) | Cole Haan Packable Rain Jacket

In general, day-to-day London style is casual but more dressy than American style. This DOES NOT mean business clothing. Think nice blouse plus tailored jeans (dark colors are always a good choice).

Like anywhere, pack for the environment. Are you spending your time café crawling in the cities or getting lost in the wilderness?

Jeans are easy to wear and don’t have to be washed frequently so they make the ideal travel pants. For something more versatile and lightweight, take a look at our favorite women’s travel pants .

Also remember that if you forget anything, you’ll be able to pick it up when you get there, so don’t be afraid to pack light. Try to stick to a small selection of colors to make it easier to mix and match your items.

What Should I Wear in London?

The most important factors in planning and packing for London are the activities you’ll be doing on your trip AND the weather.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast before your trip. What to wear in London now could be different a week later. Nothing will ruin your trip faster than being unprepared with the wrong clothing for the weather. London summer fashion is very different than winter fashion.

Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

If you’re not used to colder climates, still plan for “light winter” weather year-round and follow these tips on how to pack for cold weather . Layers are key!

Blondo Waterproof Ankle Bootie | Sorel Emelie III Chelsea Waterproof Boots

What are the best shoes for London?

Generally speaking, you’ll probably need some type of boot year-round. Choose a calf-height for the winter and ankle boots the rest of the time.

If there’s heavy rain in the forecast, a rubber bootie would work well for extensive city exploration on foot. However, regular leather boots (or faux leather boots) will work much better than rain boots on most occasions.

Most people DO NOT walk around in wellies in the city – they’re usually reserved for time in a muddy countryside or for the Glastonbury Music Festival .

Read these tips on what to wear on a rainy day !

When in doubt, a tan chelsea ankle boots is the go-to style of choice. These tips on how to wear ankle boots should work in every season except winter, when a tall boot is needed like these waterproof boots are recommended.

Popular shoe options include (click each item below for suggested styles):

Ankle Boots for spring and autumn
Ballet Flats to dress up or for warm weather
Waterproof Boots for rain and snow
Comfortable Sightseeing shoes for year round visits
Cute Comfortable Summer Sandals

Read this post about the how to choose the best walking shoes for Europe .

Below you’ll find helpful seasonal clothing tips and suggested packing lists that you can use as a guideline to prepare for a trip to London:

What to Wear in London in Spring

What is the weather in london in spring (march, april, may).

In spring, it rains a lot. I usually carry a compact umbrella at all times in the UK, so I’m always prepared for spontaneous showers.

Spring is that transition period between winter and summer, so layers are still important when planning what to wear in London, but in the later months think about swapping that chunky coat for a regular jacket.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
How to Pack for Europe in Spring
Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

Read these tips on how to pack for transitional weather .

What clothes should I wear in London in Spring?

Transform a temperate outfit on a chilly day with a scarf, hat, and tights. Skirts are fun but remember that it can get quite breezy, so you’ll have to wear double layers underneath.

If you’re in the countryside, be prepared for muddiness.

While the waterproof boots shown above will work for most trips, here are a few more ideas .

What shoes should I wear in London in spring?

As with your clothes, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Make sure your sightseeing shoes are broken in properly. Opt for a pair that is comfortable and you can wear it for hours without discomfort.

Popular styles include light brogues, sneakers, or waterproof shoes. Note that the best waterproof shoes are not made out of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in spring.

While not recommended for all day sightseeing, ballet flats are also a good option should you want a dressier pair of shoes on your trip for warmer days or evenings. Alternatively, being closed toe wedges for a dressy alternative.

London Packing List for Spring

Two short sleeve tops
Two long sleeve tops
Two additional tops
One pair of blue jeans
One pair of black ponte pants
One additional bottom
One rain or winter jacket
One warm layer
Thermals (if very cold)
Three socks
Ten underwear
One versatile sleep set
Waterproof ankle boots (sightseeing)
Slip on sneakers (sightseeing)
Ballet flat (dressing up)
Wedges : (optional)

What to Wear in London in Summer

What is the weather in london in summer (june, july, august).

Summer can be warm but also very wet. As you plan what to pack for London, be prepared for both. Check BBC Weather before your trip to get the most accurate forecast. Don’t be surprised if it’s grey and gloomy in the summer!

If the forecast calls for sun, be bright and bold! Bust out the summer dresses, sunglasses, and hats. Once again, be aware of the breeze and consider layering. Sometimes jersey skirts and dresses hold their shape better than wispy skater styles.

You can’t go wrong with a leather jacket for cool summer days and nights.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

What clothes should I wear in London in summer?

A cardigan and a scarf are essential layers for any summer outfit in case the sun is hiding behind the clouds. Use this easy packing tip to help you transform a summer dress into an autumn one if the weather is cooler than expected.

For added versatility, these are popular convertible travel dress styles!

A note on bags: Personally, I am a big fan of satchels for cities and backpacks for countryside. I feel that a satchel or tote bag with a zip can be safer than many daypacks, which might be unnecessary for city exploring.

Find out why cross-body purses are the best travel shoulder bags for women.

What shoes should I wear in London in summer?

When wondering what to pack for London, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two to three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

A comfy pair of sandals are great for walking around town if there’s sun in the forecast, but ankle boots , sneakers , and ballet flats are ideal the rest of the time.

Take a look at these London-appropriate women’s casual sneakers for travel!

London Packing List for Summer

Three short sleeve and/or sleeveless tops
One ¾ sleeve top
One additional top
Two bottoms
One maxi dress
Two summer dresses
One light rain jacket
One light layer
Comfortable sandals (sightseeing)

What to Wear in London in Fall

What is the weather in london in fall (september, october, november).

Autumn is my favorite season to dress for. I love the crunchy leaves, the mild weather, and the earthy colors.

As the transitional period between summer and winter, things start to get colder and milder in the autumn. When planning what to pack for London this time of year, think about a woolly hat and stylish travel raincoat like these .

Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:

How to Layer Clothes
Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall

What clothes should I wear in London in fall?

If you prefer skirts and dresses rather than trousers, choose leggings and opaque tights to make outfits a little warmer.

These are the best leggings for women that travel as voted for by our readers!

When planning what to pack for London, remember that scarves are extremely useful. A warm, knit option will help keep you warm during this transitional season. When it’s not quite cold enough for a coat, then a jumper or cardigan combined with a hat and a scarf will do.

Remember, layering is key!

What shoes should I wear in London in fall?

When deciding what to pack for London, plan your shoes based on the weather and your planned activities. Choose no more than two-three pairs of shoe in neutral colors that can mix and match with all your clothing.

Popular styles include light brogues, sneakers or waterproof shoes are essential. Note that the best waterproof shoes are not made out of rubber; instead choose leather ankle boots , which are the best shoe option for travel to Europe in fall.

If it will be cold during your trip, opt for one of these chic leather boots – they’re waterproof but look good, too!

London Packing List for Fall

Two dresses
Waterproof leather boots (sightseeing)
Canvas sneakers (sightseeing)
Closed toe Wedges : (optional)

What to Wear in London in Winter

What is the weather in london in winter (december, january, february).

For city exploring, add jeans to your London packing list. They aren’t appropriate for hiking, but I can’t think of anything more ideal to wear while walking around London on a frosty winter morning.

Wear leggings or tights under your jeans for extra warmth. These leggings are a popular choice with the TFG readers and are lined with fleece.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
How to Pack for Cold Weather
How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

Use these tips to learn how to stay warm in cold weather without looking like a snowman!

What clothes should I wear in London in winter?

Winter is cold. The key is to wear lots of layers (especially if you don’t fancy bringing along a heavy winter coat), drink plenty of tea, and be prepared for the possibility of snow.

When planning what to pack for London, choose tights , leggings , knee-high socks, and thermals like these for extra warmth. Don’t forget the essential winter woollies, either: hat , scarf , and gloves .

Find out why thermals are a must for traveling light (and staying warm) in winter!

What shoes should I wear in London in winter?

I find a comfy pair of waterproof ankle boots to be perfect. Soggy feet aren’t fun; neither are blisters. Be prepared for the wet as well as the cold.

Take a look at the best waterproof boots for travel!

Depending on the weather, you may even opt for a pair of warm winter boots . If it will be cold and rainy without snow, opt for cute and versatile waterproof leather boots instead.

Leather sneakers are also an option for mild days. (Tip: wear skin colored stockings underneath for discreet warmth around your ankles.)

London Packing List for Winter

Three long sleeve sweaters
One long sleeve dress
One winter jacket
Waterproof tall or ankle leather boots (sightseeing)
Leather sneakers (sightseeing)
Ballet flat or heeled ankle boot (dressing up)

What is the Best Luggage for London?

So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your packing list for London and created a chic capsule collection – now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?

There are various things to consider when choosing the best luggage for Europe including a difference in carry on size, strict weight restrictions, mobility on the cobblestone streets, and long flights of stairs.

The best suitcase to have when traveling London is a rigid trolley case, ideally with four castors. The trolley should be divided into two compartments (not just one big compartment) for easy packing. These are easy to travel with on bumpy terrain.

For a European carry-on size bag, a backpack is always a safe option. It’s also the perfect fit for those of us who prefer to travel hands-free.

Compass Rose Compression Packing Cubes

Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use luggage organizers such as packing cubes , which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.

As you’re headed to fashionable Europe, use an equally stylish carry-on , such as the Osprey Ozone , which is a personal favorite. Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

Find out the most popular Europe travel bag styles according to our readers along with their tried and tested reviews.

When traveling to London, you’ll need some of the standard, essential toiletries, including:

Shampoo and conditioner
Moisturizer (face and body)
Makeup (we recommend keeping it simple: mascara , concealer, and a lip tint that doubles as a blush)
Hair ties and bobby pins
Dry shampoo

Worried that all your toiletries, makeup, skincare, and hair styling tools won’t fit into your suitcase? Read these tips on how to travel size toiletries to learn how to make the most of limited space without sacrificing your routine!

We recommend you take the most important products in travel containers like these and try to either buy basics like shampoo and shower gel in Europe or use the items provided by hotels.

Also, consider your makeup–in many European cities, women opt for natural makeup focusing on a well groomed but not over-the-top appearance.

While a daily salon blow out isn’t necessary, be mindful of your hair and makeup. Find out if it’s necessary to bring a travel blow dryer here .

When choosing your styling tools, choose items that have dual voltage and bring along a travel adapte r for all your electronics. Just make sure to add all these items to your backpacking packing list for Europe so you don’t forget them.

Check out our guide to toiletries for more tips!

What Should I NOT Pack for London?

One unexpected issue that many travelers discover once they get to Europe are the cobblestone streets.

While great to look at, stone streets aren’t always the easiest to walk on and can make for sore feet even if you don’t normally have discomfort. Depending on the city, these streets can also be hilly, slippery when wet, and uneven.

Are Jeans Appropriate to Wear in London?

While Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, you still can wear jeans in London. However, avoid acid wash and extremely distressed denim and opt for medium-dark blues and blacks. Black skinny jeans always look chic in Europe!

Are Leggings Okay to Wear in London?

Some travelers love wearing leggings for comfort, but they’re often too casual looking as pants for London. If you’re a big fan of leggings, consider pairing a black pair with long tunics during the spring, or wearing them under dresses and skirts in fall and winter.

What are the Best Shoes to Wear in London?

Based on reader recommendations, we suggest tall boots for winter and wedges for summer; other styles can be used interchangeably throughout the year.

Depending on the weather, flat ankle boots, boat shoes, or driving mocs are other top recommendations amongst our readers. They’re classic options and make the perfect alternative to ballet flats, especially if you need a little more room for soft insoles.

Here are the best travel shoes for London in warm weather:

Flat walking sandal
Slip-on sneakers

Here are the best travel shoes for London in cool weather:

Ankle boots

London Travel Tips

Before you head on your tour of London , check out these frequently asked questions on traveling to London.

What’s the best time of year to visit London?

While summer offers perfect temperatures, it’s also the busiest time of year for visiting London. For this very reason, many experts say fall is the best season to visit London because the temperatures are still comfortable but there are fewer tourists.

Weather in London

In summer, you can expect sunny days in the 70s and occasionally in the 80s, with temperatures dropping into fall. Winter gets very cold, so prepare to bundle up – especially in December and January.

Never travel without checking the weather forecast as this will be your ultimate packing guide for London. Remember that each city will have its own weather pattern so check the forecast for all the destinations you plan to visit.

Use websites such as Accuweather or Holiday Weather for advanced forecasts and don’t forget to check the weather one week and three days before your trip as mother nature doesn’t run on a tight schedule.

What are the best accommodations in London?

We love Airbnb for accommodation in London. Sign up here for a free $40 credit!

I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb. Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.

Read these Airbnb tips for more info!

If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com . Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!

For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers . Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.

Not sure about staying at a hostel? Read this.

Transportation

For flights, I like booking through Travelocity or Cheapoair (whichever one’s cheapest). Although I prefer Travelocity because they have a 24 hour money back guarantee.

To maximize your vacation time, fly into the city where you’re starting your trip and out of the city where your trip ends. Many times it’s the same price and saves you from having to spend extra time and money to go back to where you started your trip.

How do I get around London?

The Tube is a popular option to visit the site’s in London. Make sure to purchase an Oyster Card for £5 and top up with just the amount you need for the duration of your trip. Your Tube rides will be less expensive and you can return the Oyster Card at the end of your trip to get your £5 reimbursed.

Tip: the city is very walkable! All the major sites are within walking distance so don’t rely on the Tube too much! Take a free walking tour when you arrive to London so you can get oriented with the city.

Things to Do in London

London is one of the most amazing cities to visit because there are so many beautiful sites to take in. Follow our recommendations before you travel to London .

What are the best sites in London to see?

Buckingham Palace
British Museum
Tower of London
Westminster Abbey
Tower Bridge

What are the best tours in London?

Some travelers prefer the guidance of professionals for planning their trip. If you’re a fan of tours, check out these top tours for London.

Rick Steves’ Tours
Secret Food Tours
London City Tours
The Original Tour

Along with these recommendations, one of my favorite type of tours to do when I travel are food tours. In London, I received a complimentary tour by Eating London and it was awesome.

They also hosted me in Rome where I received a complimentary Twilight Trastevere Tour and a Cooking Class with Nina. TFG readers and I both loved their tours! Read my reviews here and here .

For more city tours, New Europe has excellent tours and the best part? They’re free! All you have to do is tip your guide.

Where’s the best shopping in London?

London is synonymous with fashion. It’s a city filled with designer fashion, but if you are looking for more budget-friendly shops, try Topshop and Boots where you can get all your basic travel essentials.

Be sure to check out Piccadilly Circus or Oxford Circus for great shopping districts!

Compass Rose Secret Bra Wallet

Safety is a big concern whenever you travel, and in busy, touristy areas like London, pickpocketing can be a common occurrence. Taking a few safety precautions can help you feel less stressed during your travels.

How can I stay safe while traveling in London?

Be cautious about where you stash your cash so you don’t fall prey to muggings and pickpocketing. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers.

Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list.

And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front. For extra security, check out the “theft-proof” bags featured in this post about crossbody purses .

These are articles with other suggested anti-theft products:

Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe

Remember, the safest place for your passport is locked in your accommodation. Carry a photocopy or other ID when you’re sightseeing or are out at night.

Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel!

Suggested Anti-Theft Accessories for London

Bra stash , neck pouch , or money belt with RFID protection
Anti-theft Crossbody Bags
Passport case
TSA-approved luggage lock
Clothing with hidden pockets (like underwear , tops , and scarves )

Key Takeaways:

In general, day-to-day European style is more dressy than American style, but this does not mean business clothing. A nice blouse and well-tailored denim is a timeless uniform that can work in London just as well as any other part of Europe.
Ultimately, choose comfortable, classic clothing that will transcend trends so you can look back at the pictures from your trip with fond memories.
With shoes, always choose comfort over fashion as you’ll spend long hours on your feet – don’t forget to break them in!
Elevators are not prevalent in local accommodation; be prepared to lift your own luggage up many flights of stairs and steep cobblestone hills.
Avoid oversized, heavy luggage if you plan to use trains, buses, or budget flights as storage space is limited. You should be able to maneuver through train stations (and trains) with ease.
Pickpockets are prevalent in all tourist cities, be aware of your surroundings and be practical about your belongings.
ALWAYS check the weather before you travel.

For more ideas on what to wear in London, please read this 10 Step London Packing Guide !

What are your tips on what to pack for London and the rest of England? Comment below!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

Lonely Planet Europe on a shoestring
Lonely Planet England (Country Guide)
Travel Shoes for Europe
The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate Packing List for Europe featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

We hope you enjoyed this post on what to pack for London. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

67 comments.

Perfect list to pack while travelling to london. I am glad I bumped into your website. Now I can confidently pack whats necessary and leave the rest home. thank you very much.

So glad you found this helpful with your packing. Have an amazing time on all your travels!

We are planning soon a trip to London and it was great, that someone have already put all together for easier travel. Thanks.

I really appreciate your packing ideas for the different times of year! Planning a trip to England, and this is so helpful!

Great post! I’m going in a month and a half and I can’t wait!

Hi, I’m traveling with my wife and kids on mid of June 2023, I want to know what type of cloths to wear? summer cloths or winter or something in between?

Hi Ali, London is known for it’s 4 seasons in a day, so the best advice is to pack clothes that you can easily layer as needed.

You can experience the occasional heat wave soon followed by wind and cold. The weather can be unpredictable, which means you have to be prepared and always check the weather forecast before traveling!

to get the best advice about what the weather is like at that time of the year, I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/

It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Have an amazing time!

I’d add a washcloth to the toiletries list, since some UK & European hotels don’t offer them. I’d also consider bringing a mini towel for the daytime if wet benches & seats might be encountered.

This and the lists for long trips have helped me so much with preparing for my year in London (which was cut short due to COVID). Thank you!

This site was CRUCIAL for my trips to Ireland and London in 2017!! This packing list saved me!

Thank you for creating these lists and tips – they’ve been very helpful for my upcoming trip, and especially helpful for my sister who hasn’t traveled abroad in decades.

Hello! i will be visiting London in the 1st week of May but am unsure of what to pack for my trip. i’ve asked various people and many told me that it’s still really cold and trenchcoats are not warm enough. while your website has provided me with a lot of useful information, i will like to seek some advice on what to wear for London this coming May (1st week) and if thermal wears are required?

Hi TT, the beat thing is to check the extended forecast to get the most accurate information for your trip. Right now it looks to be a high of 55F during the day and 35F at night. Layers are always suggested but the most accurate clothing will be based on the weather forecast for the week you’re going. Have a wonderful trip!

Just a quick question, I am going to London in like 8 days so not sure if this will get answered by then. I am just wondering if I do bring my Hunter boots will that make me stick out like a tourist. I’m sure we will anyway but just wondering. I HATE wet feet so I kind of want to bring them.

How up-to-date is this information? Are these fashions current for September 2017?

Hi Sally the visuals are used for inspiration so you can adjust the tips to meet your own personal style preferences and needs. Here are the full guidelines on how to use our packing lists: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-the-travel-fashion-girl-packing-lists-and-guides/ Hope this helps!

Hello! 🙂 I found this post very helpful when I planned my 5 month-long trip to London in my home country which is Hungary. I was totally lost because I didn’t know how and WHAT to pack for this long trip. Eventually I was able to carry only a backpack with me. Now, I’ve been in London for 4 days and I have (almost 🙂 ) everything that I need.

Hi! So this might be an odd question, but I can’t seem to find anything written about it here on your site, which is still super helpful btw, but what about socks? I’m a Florida girl traveling to London in March 2017, so what’s cold to most people it’s REALLY cold to us Floridians, lol. So I’ve already been wrestling with the right shoes, jackets, and pretty much everything, but what about socks? Do you recommend a sock that is warm and also wicking, so your feet won’t get sweaty, eew, but also thin and lightweight so it doesn’t add bulk to your shoes? I’m used to spending probably 10-11 months in flip flops so preparing for this trip, has really been challenging, lol! Thanks so much for all of your great tips!

Hi Georgina! Thanks for reading! We actually had a reader ask for sock recommendations recently on the FB Page, there are some great recommendations there. Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/posts/1270845219605810?match=c29jaw%3D%3D I don’t think you will need heavy heavy socks that time of year, as it does start to get warmer in London around then! Enjoy your trip!

Hi! I will be visiting London in May next year and will like to know if the weather/season in May is appropriate for the weating of knee high HUNTER boots in London? Or will normal sneakers do the trick?

Sneakers or low boots would probably fine! The weather starts to get pretty mild in May. It may still be rainy, tho, so boots never hurt! Whatever you’re most comfortable in! Happy travels Tracy!

This list is so helpful! I’m packing for a 10 day trip to London in early September and I’m torn between the summer and fall clothes. I’ll err on the side of caution and go with the fall clothing. I was going to pack two jackets – a more stylish city jacket and a white raincoat, but I’m thinking to skip the raincoat in favor of am umbrella. Thanks TFGs!

Glad we could help Lindsey! Enjoy your trip!

Is shorts and T-shirt appropriate for London around July and August?

Or do I need to wear pants to avoid mosquitoes?

Hi Daisy, you might want to keep an eye on the weather forecast before you go. You might find that jeans and a sweater might be more appropriate this time of year. You shouldn’t have to worry about mosquitos in London. Check out weather.com for the extended forecast and weather averages before traveling. This layering idea should help you plan for your trip: https://travelfashiongirl.com/the-easy-packing-solution-for-trips-with-cold-and-warm-destinations/ Have a good time!

I normally love all your packing lists, but that London Autumn one makes me cringe! Of course, that’s the one I’m needing too – going in September. Any chance you can throw together? I would not be caught dead in #s 3 – 9 (with the exception of a long sleeve sweater…just not THAT long sleeve sweater). I usually get so inspired by your lists. Please help!

Thanks for the feedback Courtney! Here are some tips on how to apply our tips to meet your own styling needs: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-the-travel-fashion-girl-packing-lists-and-guides/

I found the umbrella wasn’t helpful. I observed many being blown inside out. If you have a hood and or a scarf you will be fine.

Thanks for the feedback!

I live in London. Always remember to bring some kind of a jacket no matter how warm it might be where you are coming from. Even in the depths of summer there usually is a bit of a cool breeze, especially in the shade and after dark. Also, don’t forget that the UK is an island and the weather is usually very changeable in one day so layers are essential: on, off, on off all day! Tubes can be boiling and walking by the river chilly!

Great tips, thank you!

I always put my tablet or laptop into a bag that I can put it next to me on the plane. I use a carry on luggage for 3-4days but 2 weeks defo a big suitcase. I would recommend also if you have young kids 1-5 pack their clothes in a suitcase at a time (2 sets a clothes in a suit case for the kids sharing). For girls defo have their own suitcase because they have more stuff than boys..

Hi, we are travelling to London on the 4th of august and staying for 4 nights and then heading off to Germany for 4 days . We are then heading off to U S to for couple of weeks I am a bit of a fashionista and need to know what sort of shoes, clothes etc. i will need. We will be away for amonth before returning home . Please help

Hi Dimpy, sorry to have missed your question! I hope you found our ten step packing guide for Europe with extensive tips for trips of any length: https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-europe/

Hello my name is Marlene I will be going to London on 9/12/18 my first time!! not sure what to wear so these tip on here was very helpful

Hi Marlene, so pleased you found the tips helpful!! Have the most amazing trip!! 🙂

Hi, we are travelling to London on the 25th of June and staying with family for 4 nights and then heading off to Paris for a week. We are then returning to London for a week and hiring a car to explore some ancestry out in the country for another week. Warwickshire, Cornwall, Bath, . A few more places before we get back to Sidcup. I am a bit of a fashionista and need to know what sort of shoes, clothes etc. i will need. We will be away for amonth before returning home to Adelaide Australia. Please help

Hie Sue, looks like you found the right article to help you pack. Here’s a few more to guide you:

https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-london-summer-style-guide/ https://travelfashiongirl.com/the-only-backpacking-packing-list-for-europe-youll-ever-need/

I’ll also post your question on Facebook to get more feedback for you. Get updates here: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl

Thanks for reading!

i’m going to London in a couple of months and this post was very helpfull!

Great, thank you!

Hi! I will be in London this weekend 😀 Can anyone tell me what the weather is like right now?… Coats still in? or out?

Hi Ayesha. I always recommend checking the extended forecasts on weather.com. you probably want to always pack a coat or jacket for London year round. Have fun!

Hello!! I’m visiting London England with my best friend in April of 2014!!! I have a medium size northface Jacket I plan on wearing while touring and sightseeing!! Would a jacket of that size would be appropriate for that time of year in England,will the weather be to warm?? Please help!!

Hi Patrice, I don’t think you’ll ever have to worry about the weather being to warm in England 🙂 It does have it’s warm weather once in a while (even heat waves) but I’d always pack a warm coat – even in the Summer it’s usually more grey and rainy than hot and sunny.

Your coat doesn’t have to be ultra-thick – your best bet is to plan on layering. Learn about layering in this post: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-tips-and-travel-clothing-for-multi-season-trips/

Great tips for travel, thanks so much! I will be in Ireland late April-early May and was wondering about tall boots. Is it too late to still wear these at that time, or would it be best to stick with an ankle boot? Thanks for the advice!

Hi Dawn, I wouldn’t think it would be too late any time 🙂 I’ll go ahead and post your question on Facebook so keep an eye out: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl?ref=hl

Boots with heels- no no? Going to be there in a few weeks!

Heels are always a travel no-no 😉 but it depends on the type of travel and where you’ll be going. Perhaps boots with no heel for walking and with a heel to dress up?

Thanks for the tips. Where are some great but affordable places to shop for clothes in England?

Great question, I’ll post it on facebook 🙂

Primark! Born and bred in Liverpool and I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t shop there – v.cheap! (like £4 UK pounds for a top, £6 jeans, £8 dress) pick up lots of dressy flats and shoes there too so you dont have to pack heels

thanks for the tip! get all my clothes at Primark when I travel to the Uk 🙂

Would it be appropriate to bring tall riding boots to wear in London in the autumn?

Yes, that’s a great idea! Have fun 🙂

Hi, question about shoes for London in August. I was planing on bringing my pair of Sperry slip on boat shoes and a pair of sandals, however i’m wondering if I will get cold at night or if it rains. Would you recommend bringing shoes a little warm for walking around at night and or weather? thank you , Ricki

Hi Ricki, I think boat shoes sound perfect however it does get cold and it does rain – year round. Add a pair of ankle boots or regular boots – they are always the way to go 🙂

Thank you, this is a very helpful blog 🙂

where did you get the waterproof winter boots ?

Hi Amber, I’ll let Lottie answer this one 🙂

I have a feeling that those particular ones came from New Look, a clothes shop in England. But they’re pretty easy to find and a pair of suede boots can always be waterproofed with waterproofing spray.

Great post! I love how there is an umbrella for every season… it really is an essential! 😉

haha yes, that one caught me by surprise two summers ago in England. You can never be to ready!

I would wear anyone of these pieces!

Lottie sure knows how to dress! Love her picks too 🙂

What a great post! I always find packing for colder climates a challenge!

Thanks! It’s a challenge for me too as I’m never in cold climates. I am now though and I’m happy with my travel wardrobe choices – i’m staying warm 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Luxury London Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Shop

Spending time in London provides access to some of the finest experiences in the world. With sumptuous accommodation, exquisite dining, the very best in shopping, and world-renowned attractions, the range of luxury things to do in London is extensive.

Discover many of the best in this guide.

Best Places to Stay

Getting your accommodation right is key. Luxury oozes out of these exemplary locations, making them among the best places to stay in London.

Best Hotel Experience

The Lanesborough, Hyde Park

Regency styling delights in this palatial five-star hotel that is located a mere few minutes walk from some London’s most desirable shops. No matter where you stand in this delightful building, your senses are inspired with the artful decor. Each of its rooms are a luxury experience of the highest quality and are coupled with the very finest service to create a stay like no other.

Rooms from £855.

Or consider:

The Ritz, Piccadilly – The most famous five-star hotel with over a century of history.
The Connaught, Mayfair – A true delight where service rules supreme.

Best For Pampering

Sea Containers, Southbank

With an exciting location on the Southbank, Sea Containers is a beautifully designed hotel that houses the impressive Agua Spa. Described as a “spa playground”, the hotel is one of the finest places to be pampered in the capital, featuring the “Mud Cure” body treatment for a traditional Turkish full-body exfoliation and “Hot Basalt Booster” rejuvenating hot stone therapy. Private treatment rooms and a couples’ suite are alongside steam rooms, nail and grooming lounge, and a fully-equipped fitness centre.

Rooms from £215.

Langham Hotel, Marylebone – The home of Chuan Spa, suffused with calmness and peace.
Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park – Enjoy revitalising massage and anti-aging facials.

Best Hotel Alternative

Sanctum London

When looking for the best places to stay in London, Sanctum provide a five-star hotel alternative that is perfect for business travellers, families, and those looking for a longer stay. Their three serviced apartment locations offer fully equipped apartments with multiple bedrooms, separate private living room, and comprehensive kitchen facilities.

For luxury service and amenities combined with the size and convenience of a complete apartment, Sanctum is a pleasing hotel alternative.

Two bedroom apartments from £215.

Andrew’s Houseboat on Airbnb – A unique offering on the Thames with a view of London Bridge.
John and Ellen’s Chelsea Townhouse on Airbnb – A truly inspiring delight in the heart of London.

Best Places to Eat

The range of quality luxury London restaurants is staggering, catering to absolutely every taste. It’s not all about dining, either, as restaurants compete for awards and recognition in some truly unique ways. Eating out in London can be as much about the experience as the food itself, making the evening as much an attraction as anything planned for the day.

Best for the Food

BiBi, Mayfair

BiBi is a true luxury, an Indian restaurant brought to life by chef Chet Sharma, a veteran of the Ledbury, Gymkhana and Moor Hall. Dishes here are as tasteful as the surroundings, a place of polished wooden floors and delicately ornate ceilings. Each item on the menu is crafted to perfection, mixing an incredible range of spices with a master’s skill to indulge the tastebuds, sometimes into a fiery evocation, but always inspired.

BiBi is a sharing adventure, as every dish is intended to be split between two, allowing for a full range of tastes to be experienced throughout the night before leaving both sated and thrilled.

Approx £45 per head.

Scott’s, Mayfair – A legendary seafood restaurant where the puddings delight.
Bob Bob Ricard, Soho – Top quality French restaurant where you can press a button for champagne.

Best for the Experience

Dining at The Ritz is a complete fine dining experience. From the moment you step into the world-famous building, you know you are part of something special, with a dress code that insists that you take the place seriously – there are no jeans or trainers here. The food is a Michelin starred masterpiece, delighting every reviewer and critic to enter, not to mention the discerning diner. No matter what you choose from the menu, however, taking dinner at The Ritz means you are part of a long tradition that stretches back over a hundred and fifteen years. Here, kings and queens, politicians and celebrities, scientists and world leaders have all eaten – it is an honour to be among them.

Approx £75 to £125 per head.

Dans le Noir – Experience eating in the dark for a unique night out.
Inamo, Covent Garden – A fusion of Asian dining and love of technology.

Best for the Quirk

Not all posh London meals need to take place in an uptight environment. At Sexy Fish, the incredible Asian sea food is somewhat uniquely complemented by aquatic-themed artwork by Damien Hirst, an onyx floor and an internal water wall. The feeling of being submerged into a somewhat surreal undersea location is strong – here is a place where the very lucky can dine under an enormous mirrored crocodile.

It is the almost lunatic decor that makes Sexy Fish a quirky standout restaurant, but for all that, the food is apparently quite delicious, too.

Approx £50 to £75 per head.

Restaurant Ours, Knightsbridge – Dine among huge indoor trees for quality food in an unique environment.
The Windmill, Soho – Mix cabaret performance with top-quality food for an entertaining evening.

Best Places to Shop

London has some incredible luxury shopping. Shopaholics from around the world enjoying coming to the UK capital to find the very best in designer fashion, try some hands-on technology, or find specialised boutiques filled with unique gifts. With plenty of great locations, it’s easy to spend the day mixing heavy duty shopping with some great lunch and dinner.

Best for Fashion

Knightsbridge

Home of the world-famous Harrods department store, Knightsbridge also offers a range of designer boutiques and the entrancing Harvey Nichols. Unique designer clothes, beautiful bags, the latest in fashion footwear, and classy exquisite jewellery are all available from a range of posh London shops that include Gucci, Lulu Guinness, Cutler and Gross, and Ted Baker.

The Royal Exchange – A luxury shopping centre in the midst of the financial district.
King’s Road – The forefront of fashion in London since the swinging 60s.

Best for Family

Hamleys, Regent Street

Once upon a time, Hamleys was the largest toy shop in the world. With the advent of massive warehouse toy suppliers, that crown has since been lost, but where giant retail stores are filled with line upon line of unappealing towering shelves, London’s Hamleys is a true toy-centric experience for all the family. From an exciting welcome by a street performer or perhaps a giant monkey, through to the hands-on displays of the latest toy tech, through to the exciting life-sized Lego statues, Hamleys oozes the kind of childlike delight that thrills children and adults alike.

Camden Town – Eclectic crafts and edgy clothes in a teenagers haven.
Covent Garden – Mix street entertainment with specialist boutiques and delightful cafés.

Best for Food

Borough Market

Situated close to London Bridge station, Borough Market is a foodies’ joy. Though it’s not huge, the variety and unique character of this fabulous market bring a vibrant joy to the palate. Taste fine artisan breads dipped in unusually flavoured oils, enjoy a range of quality cheese or sumptuous olives, or try something crazy like a kangaroo burger. The tantalisingly fresh nature of the goods from Borough Market will have you creating dinners that burst with flavour and have you racing back for more from one of the best London food places.

Ledenhall Market – The architecture alone makes this long-standing market stand out.
Covent Garden – Enjoy afternoon tea and a wide range of specialist foodstuffs.

Best Places to Visit

London has more attractions spread through its streets than it is possible to list, but some definitely stand out. Simply walking around the capital of the UK brings its own attraction with street performers, centuries of incredible architecture, unique art, verdant parkland, and pop-up rides all simply part of the scenery, but for a full day out, why not visit the following luxury things to do in London:

Best for British History

The Tower of London

The home to the crown jewels (check out the size of the vault door!), ravens, and tight cells that held a range of famous villains throughout history, The Tower of London is an engaging attraction in the heart of London itself. The building itself has its roots back over a thousand years, with the early sections built after the Battle of Hastings in 1066, and with ten centuries of history comes a wide range of stories to tell. The Tower of London is an enthralling education experience for all, featuring exhibits that have never been – and will never be – seen elsewhere.

Entry from £29.90 (adult).

Hampton Court Palace – Once home to King Henry VIII – the kitchen is a marvel.
The Clink Prison Museum – Learn about London’s underbelly – not for the faint of heart.

Best for Art

The National Gallery

Taking up the north end of Trafalgar Square, itself a location worth visiting, the National Gallery in London houses one of the greatest collections of paintings in the world. Marvel at Van Gogh’s Sunflowers , Monet’s The Water-Lily Pond , or da Vinci’s The Virgin on the Rocks , alongside hundreds of others. With something for everyone, the National Gallery has no pretension, presenting the art in an accessible way for all to enjoy. The space is vast, with perfectly placed benches to sit and muse over items in the collection, and easy navigation through galleries for those who pretend to ingest their art as they walk. For anyone unused to a gallery on this scale, the sheer immense size of the paintings in the gallery is often breathtaking, a feeling only increased upon closer inspection. The works here truly are masterpieces.

Entry is free for all.

Tate Modern – Enjoy the surrealism of Dali and Pablo Picasso, alongside modern classics.
The British Museum – From the Elgin marbles to the Rosetta Stone, the British Museum is a collection of priceless pieces from around the world.

Madame Tussauds

The world famous Madame Tussauds waxwork museum has long stood as one of the premier attractions in London. Each year the collection is added to, bringing contemporary figures into the mix to keep the sights relevant to everyone. With technology also aiding in the experience, visitors can enjoy the spectacle of the 4D Marvel Universe, be chilled in the Chamber of Horrors, or experience the huge monstrosity of and 18-foot tall King Kong in Skull Island.

An essential part of any visit to London, Madame Tussauds is a family outing beyond compare.

Entry from £32 (adult).

The Natural History and Science Museums – A day’s adventure among dinosaurs and rocket ships.
KidZania – Kids role play as adults in this job-centric educational funfest.

Enjoying Luxury London

With so much to offer, London is more than posh shops and luxury places to stay. There are plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy and relax in, myriad specialist shops lining the streets, and an adventure in its own right exploring the city. Choose quality accommodation to make sure you have somewhere wonderful to return to each night, and enjoy your time in the UK capital.

savvyglobetrotter

16 Best Things to Buy in London — London Souvenirs and Items That Will Make You Hoard!

Looking for the best things to buy in London?

There is something in London for everyone’s shopping needs, whether it be something for yourself or a present for a friend, colleague, or member of the family. In the diverse and vibrant English capital, there are plenty of options when it comes to shopping for unique and memorable London souvenirs.

So, what are the best things to buy in London?

I have compiled some of the must-buys when in the English capital — from the uniquely London souvenirs to fan merch and some quality items that should fill your luggage in no time. Mind not to hoard, though!

What you'll find

Best things to buy in London

Here’s my handpicked list of what to buy in London that will make great gifts for family and friends back home or souvenirs to remember your London trip by.

1. English tea

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lennie Madlangbayan Clegg (@simplyeinnel)

Whether it’s Twinnings or Taylors of Harrogate, Londoners and tourists alike can’t get enough of tea. English tea is one of the things to buy in London to take home since it’s a breeze to pack in your suitcase for your return trip.

You can find a variety of teas by visiting a specialty tea shop like Whittards or a supermarket like Tesco or Waitrose.

English breakfast tea isn’t the only option, of course. You can experiment with a variety of flavors, including rosé, mixed berries, hazelnut, and chocolate teas.

2. English teapot

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Voyage Marché (@levoyagemarche)

What could be more charming than a cute English teapot to bring your mother, sister, or best friend from your London vacation?

You can buy one pretty much anywhere that sells tableware — from china shops to department stores like Harrods where they sell designer tea sets for a small fortune. But as a starting point, head to John Lewis on Oxford Street.

A genuine English teapot is one of the best things to buy in London, so mind to check that the teapot is actually made in England. Antique shops are a good source of genuine English tea pots and other china items.

3. British chocolates from Charbonnel et Walker

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Charbonnel et Walker (@charbonnel1875)

Charbonnel et Walker, the first premium chocolate maker in the United Kingdom, was founded in 1875. It even holds a Royal Warrant for Her Majesty the Queen as a chocolatier.

To top it all off, Marc de Champagne’s chocolates are wonderful London presents for friends and family back home, especially the Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles.

One of the best places to buy this chocolate in London is the renowned shop in the Royal Arcade in Mayfair.

4. Harrods Coffee in an exclusive tin

View this post on Instagram A post shared by April Lea ♉ (@april24.lea)

Harrods Emporium has created a fine grind Blend 49 coffee in a historic gold and green container to commemorate its 150 years in business.

As you would expect from a high-end grocery store, the coffee is crafted from only the finest pure Arabica beans to provide a flavorful cup with a nutty aftertaste. Cafetières and percolators will appreciate this pretty 250g. bag of coffee.

The Harrods Food Hall’s Heritage collection tin is one of many popular food and beverage presents. The dark green graphic on the tin depicts the Harrods building. On its front is the slogan “Purveyors of Fine Coffee since 1849.”

With your order, you’ll receive the sought-after Harrods carrier bag, as well as a tin of coffee that is both beautiful and high-quality. This is definitely among the best things to buy in London!

5. A hat from Lock & Co.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lock & Co. Hatters (@lockhatters)

How about an elegant hat to update your wardrobe? When in London, get it from Lock & Co., the oldest hat shop in the world.

Surrounded by a rich history, the shop manager is supposed to have inspired Lewis Carroll to create the renowned Mad Hatter persona from Alice in Wonderland .

Lock & Co. sells a fashionable beret if you’re going to Paris following London.

A canvas bag or lock keyring is also an excellent London keepsake from the shop if you’re on a budget.

6. A James Smith & Sons umbrella

View this post on Instagram A post shared by RND BRV M (@r_bravo_m)

Since 1830, James Smith & Sons has been selling umbrellas near the Tottenham Court Road and Holborn underground stations in a historic Victorian shop.

Carrying a classic London umbrella is the best way to stay dry during inclement weather. These long-lasting umbrellas are still made using traditional processes. The showroom and the umbrella manufacturer are even located in the same building.

The Pencil Umbrella with Cat Handle is a great buy if you love cats , or the London Umbrella with Lion Handle if you like a more edgy style. The one Pencil Umbrella with Fox Handle is cute as well.

These cute and useful umbrellas are a must-buy in London. Take it wherever you go during your stay in the English capital, then buy more to bring home to your friends and family. They will also love these charming London souvenirs!

7. Savile Row’s bespoke suits

View this post on Instagram A post shared by S . B R E N N A N (@s.brennanbespoke)

Savile Row tailors in Mayfair’s Savile Row are one of the most iconic London keepsakes for men who wish to buy formal wear.

In the words of British GQ, this is “the world’s most famous suiting street.”

Even though they’re expensive, these are the best London souvenirs as Savile Row suits are highly regarded for their craftsmanship and will always bring back memories of your time in London.

8. Burberry trench coat

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 하지효 (@jihyo__ha)

For women who want to look fashionable even when it’s raining or snowing, a Burberry trench coat is the perfect thing to bring back from London as a souvenir.

This timeless article of apparel is the ideal thing for you to pick up at their shop on Regent Street if you are looking for fabulous things to buy in London.

9. Penhaligons perfumes and colognes

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Penhaligon’s (@penhaligons_london)

The Penhaligons gift packages are simply irresistible.

This classic London perfume brand is ideal for people who like to travel with only their carry-on belongings or who are planning a short trip throughout Europe.

There are several Penhaligons boutiques around London. If you don’t have time to visit one of their stores, you can purchase their fragrances online. If you want to experiment with different scents, buy some of their travel-sized perfumes and colognes.

10. Bespoke scents from Miller Harris’ perfume

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Arabella Shelbourne (@asaperture)

Miller Harris makes a line of niche perfumes that you might enjoy. Perfumer Lyn Harris launched this London-based couture perfume brand in 2000.

This small British fragrance company makes exquisite natural scents inspired by stories. For a scent that will remind you of your time in London, head to their stores in Covent Garden and Seven Dials.

11. London souvenirs from Stanfords

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lucila R. – Viagem Cult (@viagemcult)

Stanfords is the world’s largest map and travel book shop, located in Covent Garden, London.

For nearly two centuries, it has been a favorite of explorers and adventurers. There is a wide variety of books, maps, and other items for sale that will make good souvenirs of your London trip.

Some of the best London souvenirs you can get here include their London map-printed cushion covers, travel bags, and the very popular Money Box with the signature retro map print.

12. Harry Potter Shop souvenirs

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sim (@funk0llector)

If you’re a Harry Potter fan like me, don’t forget to pick up some keepsakes at Platform 9¾ in King’s Cross station’s Harry Potter Shop.

Hogwarts sweatshirts, owl-themed mugs, and owl-themed pencils are just some of the items you’ll find at this shop. Make sure to snap a picture with the shop’s famed disappearing luggage trolley while you’re there.

Also check out the Harry Potter filming locations in London if you haven’t yet!

13. Print from the National Gallery

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @artemisia (@artemisia_3732)

Want art but can’t afford to spend thousands of dollars on a trip to an art auction? Art prints are available for purchase at the gift store of the National Gallery, one of London’s best art museums.

Prints are among the best things to buy in London since you may put them in your suitcase without fear of them getting damaged because they come with a protective plastic wrap around them.

Postcard-sized prints are also available if you need something smaller to send back home or put in a smaller area.

14. Books from one of the famous bookstores

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aleksandra (@aleks_london_diary)

More than 100 independent book shops and several corporate stores can be found in London, making it a mecca for bibliophiles. A book from one of London’s best-known bookshops is a wonderful gift for the bookworms in your life.

Hatchards, London’s oldest bookshop, has a wide selection of books. With three Royal Warrants, their Picadilly flagship store has been in business since 1797. There is also a new small outlet in St. Pancras International Station.

With several locations, Daunt Books is another excellent bookshop. In their original Marylebone location, which is stunning in every way, they include a huge travel section with foreign and local guides as well as fiction novels to browse.

When you buy a book from one of the many local independent book stores, you’ll almost always get a complimentary lovely bookmark. These are the best London souvenirs you can give the bookworms in your life when you get back home from your vacation.

15. A House of Commons notebook

Definitely one of the best London souvenirs, a House of Commons notebook can be bought from the Houses of Parliament Shop located directly across from Big Ben and just around the corner from the Westminster tube station. It sells a variety of branded gifts that bear the stamp of the United Kingdom government.

Even though they have an online store, we believe that purchasing something from them in person provides a higher level of authenticity than doing it online. You can anticipate being able to purchase a wide variety of branded goods, ranging from packs of playing cards to apparel.

16. Quality stationery

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eun ji ฅʕ •ɷ•ʔฅ (@harte.ej)

One of the lovely things to buy in London are quality stationery. You’re in luck if you’re shopping for a notebook enthusiast! Some of the top stationery stores in the world may be found in the English capital.

It’s impossible to find a better spot in London to purchase notebooks than Choosing Keeping in Seven Dials. With a vast variety of bindings, materials, and paper kinds, their handpicked stock is of the utmost quality.

Additionally, they have a wonderful collection of fountain pens, inks, greeting cards, and watercolors on hand, which will make such nice London souvenirs to bring home to.

You may also check out Present & Correct for more writing and drawing supplies. Here you can find everything from washi paper to bullet journals.

13 Symbols of London

Are you interested to know some symbols of London? The English capital of London is widely recognized as a global metropolis. As such, it features abundant examples of contemporary art, cool cultural activities, interesting historical sites, beautiful parks, and fascinating traditions. London is famous for many things, including Harry Potter,…

Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London: All You Need to Know

If you’re interested in learning about the Ceremony of the Keys in London, you’ve come to the right place. Those interested in attending a historical ceremony or two will find that London has plenty to offer. With three different Changing of the Guard ceremonies to choose from each year (at…

113 Harry Potter Spells and Charms Every True Potterhead Should Know

True Potterheads most likely know at least ten Harry Potter spells and charms off the top of their heads. From Accio to Waddiwasi, from charms that conjure orchids from the tip of your wand to a curse that will kill you if you break a promise, here are the Harry Potter spells and charms to make you want to read the books or watch the films again.

Who Are the Tower of London Ghosts? – 10 Most Famous Ghosts in the Infamous Castle

Have you heard about the Tower of London ghosts? I have. And they intrigue the heck out of me. The haunted Tower of London, also known as His Majesty’s Royal Palace and Fortress, was first built by William the Conqueror about a thousand years ago. It has played a significant…

11 Harry Potter Filming Locations in London Every Fan Should Visit

Who wouldn’t like to visit the Harry Potter filming locations in London? No true Harry Potter fan would pass up the opportunity! You’ve read the books, you’ve seen the films, and now all you need is that letter that says you’ve been admitted to Hogwarts. You got yourself a nice…

What to Do on Easter in London 2023

Wondering what to do on Easter in London in 2023? The English capital city is at its finest during the Easter holiday, which falls on the 9th of April this year. The United Kingdom observes Bank Holidays on both Friday the 7th and Monday the 10th of April. Schools in…

Traveling Pari

Travel Canada and Beyond

10 Best shopping areas in London: Regent Street

Where To Shop In London: 10 Best Shopping Areas for Tourists and Fashionistas

London is one of the top cities in the world. When it comes to shopping, whether you are a fashionista looking for the latest trending fashion, a tourist shopping for souvenirs, an antiques collector looking to add to his or her collection, London has something for everyone! These are my top 10 picks for the best shopping in London, specially for a tourist/ first time visitors.

1. Oxford Street

10 best shopping areas for tourist to London : #3. Oxford Street

Where is Oxford Street?

Services for visitors to London

Tax free services at Selfridges, souvenir shops, banks such as Santander, Llyods where you can exchange currency, famous hotels such as Claridge’s and London Mariott Grosvenor Square London. within walking distance.

What to buy at Oxford Street?

Shop for luxury clothes, shoes, watches and bags at Selfridges, John Lewis and House of Fraser. You can also shop London high street brands such as Next, Debenhams, Marks & Spencer and many others at Oxford street.

Shop high-end brands such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, Dior and others at Harrods in London

Where is Harrods?

Tax-free shopping, Travel shop for custom itineraries of London, Bureau de Change, Qatar Airways Counter, Harrods souvenirs

What to buy at Harrods?

3. regent street.

Where is Regent Street?

What to buy at Regent Street?

Buy Iphone accessories at the Apple store
Kids toys at Hamleys
Exclusive designer bags, shoes and clothes at Coach, Karl Lagerfeld, Michael Kors.

4. Westfield Shopping Centre

Shopping in London - Westfield Shopping Centre

Where is Westfield Shopping Centre?

Westfield also has another shopping centre at Stratford. The closest train station to this shopping centre is Stratford station on the London overground and Tfl Rail.

Services for Visitors to London

Tax-free shopping, Taxi Lounge, In-Centre Red Car- chauffer driven experience inside the shopping centre, cloak room where you can leave your luggage, coats and shopping bags so that you can shop in comfort.

What to buy at Westfield London

Westfield has some popular UK brands such as Miss Selfridge, Monsoon, Missguided, Dorothy Perkins and others.

5. Old and New Bond Street

The Old Bond Street and the New Bond street commonly known as Bond Street connects Piccadilly to Oxford Street. This street, especially the Old Bond Street, has many high-end designer shops like Prada, Bvlgari, Louis Vuitton and others.

Where is Bond Street?

What to buy at Bond Street?

Buy haute couture from high end designer shops like Prada, Bvlgari, Louis Vuitton etc.

6. Carnaby Street

10 Best shopping areas in London: Carnaby Street

Where is Carnaby Street?

What to buy at Carnaby Street?

7. burlington arcade.

10 best shopping areas in London: Burlington Arcade

Where is Burlington Arcade?

What to buy at Burlington Arcade?

Buy vintage pre-owned rare Rolex watches at The Vintage Watch Company or vintage jewels at Richard Ogden Ltd.

8. Camden Market

Camden market is not a typical tourist go-to for shopping. I would suggest you visit Camden only if you are looking for off-beat shopping locations. The market has a food market which has food stalls from around the world.

Where is Camden market?

Camden market is one of the best places to do some Cheap Shopping in London.

What to buy at Camden Market?

Camden Market is a youth focused market selling cheap clothes, jewellery and other knickknacks. If you want to buy t-shirts for casual wear, London souvenirs, then this is the ideal place to shop.

9. Portobello Market at Notting Hill

Best places to shop for antiques in London: Portobello market in Notting Hill

Where is Portobello Market?

What to buy at Portobello Market

10. covent garden.

10 Best places to shop in London - Covent Garden

Where is Convent Garden?

What to buy at Covent Garden?

Buy luxury bags at Mulberry, ballet flat shoes at French Sole, Swiss watches at Bucherer or some sunglasses at Ray Ban. There are also some second-hand book stores on Covent Garden which is fun exploring.

Love this Post? Share it on social media and comment.

10 Best Areas to do shopping in London for tourists and fashionistas

Affiliate Links

Canoeing in Algonquin Provincial Park

Cool and Unusual Things to do in London - Rooftop Cinema at Bussey Building

Rooftop Cinema – Bussey Building – Unusual Things To Do In London

Top 25 Free Things To Do In Toronto – Budget Travel

Bangkok Airbnb - Are short term rentals legal?

Airbnb Bangkok – Are Short-term Rentals Legal?

About Annie André
Our life abroad
Contact moi!
Living in France
Moving to France
Food in France
French activities
French facts & history
French customs, traditions, etiquette
French holidays & celebrations
Health & personal care
Education in France
Online French lessons
Travel France
Travel tips
Work & money
Inspiration
Travel Gear & Technology
French inspired gifts
Travel England

Best London shopping streets & shops that tourists love

Wondering where to shop in London? Here are 11 famous must-visit shopping experiences that attract tourists from around the world.

Waterstones-book-store-piccadilly-shopping-uk

Whether you want to flex your credit card or do a little window shopping, London is a shopper’s paradise. I’ve put together a list of 11 famous must-visit London shopping experiences that attract tourists from around the world. I’ve also included a map for each location.

Jump to section ↓

London shopping

Recognized internationally as one of the world’s most important fashion capitals, London is jam-packed with designer shops, luxury department stores, exclusive shopping streets and famous markets.

1) New Bond Street

For luxury shopping that rivals paris.

New Bond Street is an 800-metre long street in London which links Piccadilly to the famous Oxford Street.

It’s where the rich and famous with expensive and extravagant taste clamour to find a concentration of sophisticated designer shops like Burberry and Hermes, exclusive jewellers like Cartier and Tiffany and high-end art like the kind found at Halcyon Galleries. The infamous Sotheby’s auction house is also located on New Bond Street. ( According to Westminster City Council, Bond Street has the highest density of haute couture stores anywhere in the world. )

In 2017, New Bond Street stole the first-place prize from the Champs Elysées in Paris as the most expensive and sought-after strip of real estate for retailers in Europe. Rents average $1,179 USD per square foot per year on New Bond Street.

You might be interested in reading: 18 of France’s most popular shopping streets for Shopaholics. [

Even if you can’t afford it, it’s worth a trip to do a little window shopping.

2) Fortnum & Mason ( Luxury fine foods )

Known as the best grocery store in England and the official grocer to the royal family for over a century, Fortnum & Mason or Fortnum’s , as it’s known in the UK, was founded in 1707 as a small grocery store selling quality and exotic foods.

During the Victorian era, it grew and expanded to include homeware, beauty products, clothing and accessories to become what some people say is the world’s first department store.

The Fortnum logo and iconic turquoise packaging are known by everyone in the UK and are somewhat of a status symbol.

Be sure to check out their hampers, which are some of the best in the world and their impressive tea selection.

Located at 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London

3) Harrods (the largest department store in the UK)

Charles Henry Harrod founded Harrods in 1849 as a humble grocery store, much like Fortnum & Mason.

Today, Harrods is the largest department store in the UK and represents the height of British luxury.

The store’s motto is “Omnia Omnibus Ubique,” which is Latin for “All things for all people, everywhere,” and it delivers on its promise by providing everything a shopper could ever want, thanks in part to its size…

As the largest, most well-known department store in the UK, Harrods boasts over 1 million square feet of retail space spread over 7 floors and over 330 departments that showcase the best luxury merchandise, from high-end fashion and accessories to the finest homewares and latest technology. There is an acclaimed food hall with nearly 30 restaurants, a toy kingdom for the kids, an Ice cream parlour, a donut shop and more.

Wealthy Egyptian-born Al Fayad, who once owned Harrods, put many of his own personal touches into the building, such as the Egyptian elevator and glittering Egyptian room adorned with several busts of himself. Following the death of Mr. Al Fayad’s son Dodi and Princess Diana in a car crash in Paris, he also created a memorial to the couple in the store.

Plan on spending the whole day and braving the overwhelming crowds of people.

Located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London

4) Selfridges (luxury department store)

The inventor of the modern window displays.

Founded in 1908 by Harry Gordon Selfridge, Selfridges’ flagship store located on the famous Oxford Street is another high-end department store in London—the second largest department store in the UK after Harrods.

If you’ve ever caught an episode of the TV drama Mr. Selfridge (which I love), you know all about how this American-born businessman revolutionized British shopping and invented intricate and artistic window displays that all department stores now have adopted.

Located at 400 Oxford St, Marylebone, London

5. Liberty (Tudor-style luxury department store)

Liberty department store, founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, is one of London’s most traditional-looking department stores—done in the mock Tudor style , also known as half-timbered or “colombage” in French.

When it originally opened, it sold ornaments, fabric and art objects from Japan and the East. Today, Liberty sells luxury goods, including men’s, women’s and children’s fashion, cosmetics and fragrances, jewellery, accessories, homeware, furniture, stationery and gifts.

Located at Great Marlborough Street in the West End of London.

6. Harvey Nichols (Princess Diane used to shop here )

Harvey-Nichols-department-store-shopping-london-uk

Founded in 1831 by Benjamin Harvey, Harvey Nicols was originally opened as a linen shop but expanded over the years to become an upscale department store.

Located just a few blocks from Harrods, some might say that Harvey Nichols is the younger, more fashionable version of the two.

Princess Diana often frequented the 5th-floor restaurant.

Located at 109-125 Knightsbridge, Belgravia, London

7. Mount Street ( Luxury shopping street)

Not to be missed when visiting London is Mount Street in London’s affluent Mayfair district.

The street is an aspiring mix of old-world charm and 21st-century niche, luxury, beauty, fashion, art, antiques and exclusive restaurants. It gives Bond Street a run for London’s luxury retail supremacy.

Prestigious brands that call Mount Street home include Balenciaga London, Lanvin Ladies Boutique, Goyard, Moynat, Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta, Stephen Webster (jeweller shop), and niche retailers like antique and cigar shops. There’s even a Porsche showroom.

Located at Mount Street in London

8. Saville Row (a street lined with stores f or finely tailored suits)

Savile Row-street-bespoke-tailoring-london-UK

If you’re interested in getting something tailored, then head over to Saville Row. A short little street that has become synonymous with good tailoring.

Henry Poole & Co., who is credited as being the founder of Saville Row and its reputation as THE PLACE FOR BESPOKE TAILORING, is also credited with creating the modern Tuxedo in 1864. The shop still exists at No.15!

Bespoke tailoring: clothing cut from a pattern drafted from scratch for the customer. Think of bespoke tailoring as the opposite of off-the-rack ready-to-wear suits.

In 2018, the website GQ British featured the article “Savile Row tailors: the GQ Guide,” which called “London the menswear’s global capital with Savile Row being the most important street in that world because it creates the best suits in this world.”

The street is so legendary for the quality of its tailoring that the Japanese word for a three-piece business suit is “Sabiro,” which is a Japanified way of saying “Savile Row.”

Located at Savile Row, Mayfair, London

9. Waterstones at Picadilly ( For Book Lovers)

Waterstones is a British book retailer with over 200 retail outlets. The Waterstones flagship building at Piccadilly is the store to visit, though.

Be prepared to spend the whole day here because the book selection can’t be beaten, and the location is huge. It’s literally an 8 story department store of books —the largest bookstore in Europe.

There are comfortable sofas, an excellent restaurant & café on the 5th floor open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can even enjoy a glass of wine and settle down with a good book.

Located at 203-206 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London

10. Hamley’s ( For Toy store Lovers)

If there were a paradise on earth for kids, it would probably be Hamley’s—the oldest, largest and best-known toy shop in the world. This place makes Toys R Us look like a dump.

Set over 7 floors; it’s considered one of the cities’ top tourist attractions. Entering the store, you will be amazed. There is so much going on on every floor.

There are wonderful toy displays and live toy demonstrations by the staff renowned for their fun, friendly demeanour. There are also themed areas like the Harry Potter-themed area on the lower floor.

What else would you expect from the best toy shop in the world!!

Get there early; the shop fills up fast. And be prepared to spend a lot of money. Most travellers complain that this store is extremely expensive.

Located at 188-196 Regent St, Soho, London

11. Borough Market (Covered outdoor Food Market)

This bustling covered market located next to London Bridge is London’s most renowned and oldest food market, dating back to the 12th century.

A visit to the market is like taking a culinary trip around the world, with its fascinating maze of stands, stalls and carts selling anything and everything from all four corners of the earth. From Spanish Tapas and spicy Thai Curry to favourite local dishes, you can’t go wrong here.

There is no smoking allowed, and no dogs are allowed, except for seeing-eye dogs.

Hours of Operation: Open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. On Fridays, the shops close at 6 pm. (closed on public holidays). On Monday and Tuesday, not all of the traders are present, but still plenty of choices.

Located at 8 Southwark Street, London

Sharing is caring: Please consider saving this pin to Pinterest.

pintrest pin about Top London shopping destinations

Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a 'petite commission' at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links. It helps me buy more wine and cheese. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Why people love stinky cheese & smelly foods, according to science!

Budget travel france: best cost cutting tips from a local, how do time zones work and why do we have them.

Annie André

About the author

I'm Annie André, a bilingual North American with Thai and French Canadian roots. I've lived in France since 2011. When I'm not eating cheese, drinking wine or hanging out with my husband and children, I write articles on my personal blog annieandre.com for intellectually curious people interested in all things France: Life in France, travel to France, French culture, French language, travel and more.

We Should Be Friends

Subscribe to Receive the Latest Updates

15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting London

O ne of the top places to visit in Europe or the U.K., London is a bustling city with ample things to see and do. Perfect for history lovers, theatre enthusiasts, luxury brand shoppers, foodies, and spa-goers especially, the Big Smoke has all the makings of a fabulous vacation, any way you slice it. Of course, with countless attractions, must-see museums, incredible restaurants, various entertainment districts, and a party till the sun comes up kind of nightlife, a trip to this iconic metropolis can seem overwhelming at first.

Even if this is not your first time heading to the Big Smoke, planning your itinerary is no small feat. And, regardless of what you decide to get into while vacationing, there are several important odds and ends, including lodgings and transportation, that still need to be sorted ahead of time. So, to ensure your whirlwind getaway goes off without a hitch, here are 15 essential travel hacks that are absolute game-changers when visiting London.

Read more: It's Time To Ditch These 10 Outdated Travel Tips

Visit During The Shoulder Season

When considering a trip across the pond, timing is everything. In the warmer months, London is overflowing with tourists and locals, which means many wonderful attractions are harder to enjoy, waiting in long lines is the norm, and popular activities sell out fast. What's more, travel prices tend to be higher across the board. So, booking a trip to London during the shoulder season is the more pragmatic way to go.

London's shoulder season is usually from September to mid-October and around March till the first half of May. During either time, the weather tends to be more amenable, and things are often more affordable. Plus, travelers do not need to concern themselves with the summer or winter holiday crowds. Though there are spectacular events during the holidays and more than a few outdoor concerts, sporting tournaments, and other happenings going on from late May to September, if you want to experience what this city has to offer sans the masses and without breaking the bank, then the shoulder season is definitely one of the best times to visit.

Look For Accommodations In Central London

With dozens of options available, if you prefer a hotel, an Airbnb, or a hostel, the Big Smoke has no shortage of places to stay. That said, the area you choose to stay in is actually more important here. As you are likely aware, London is a rather large city, so choosing the right area or neighborhood matters. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, shopping, and more, then you should definitely look for accommodations in central London or the West End.

Though the center of London is a little pricier than, say, Victoria or Paddington, it is well worth the extra money, as you are closer to all the fun and entertainment. Of course, depending on the desired price range, travelers can peruse hotels and lodgings in West End and Westminster neighborhoods like Mayfair, Trafalgar, Soho, and Covent Garden. Here is where you will find fabulous options with ample convenience and nearby transportation, plus a range of attractions, pubs, and popular restaurants practically around every corner.

Pack For The Destination

Packing for a London getaway is pretty straightforward, no matter the season. Smart casual layers will work for almost any kind of weather. However, it is worth noting that people tend to dress well here, so make sure you have the proper attire for any nice dinners, plays, or nights out on the town.

In the shoulder season, you can expect, for the most part, mild weather that may require a jacket or fleece at night. Waterproof windbreakers and scarves are always a must in the U.K. If you happen to be visiting in September or October, gloves and a hat are also great to have with you. In addition to warm layers and seasonal accessories, your footwear is crucial in London. Even if walking tours are not your thing, there is still a lot of ground to cover in this thrilling city. Therefore, a pair of comfy, ideally waterproof shoes will ensure you can go the extra mile if need be.

Prepare For Rain

London is no stranger to rain, and a light shower can happen at any time as the weather in the city is often unpredictable. Thankfully, prolonged periods of rain or all-day showers are not all that common in the shoulder season. And the Big Smoke typically gets the bulk of its rain in November. Nonetheless, most months experience rainfall, approximately 11 to 15 days each month, to be exact.

As a result, preparing for rain, even at the start of the shoulder season, will make you a savvy traveler. A raincoat, an umbrella, or an alternative activity such as a museum day, afternoon tea, or a spa retreat for two in the event of a prolonged downpour is really all one needs here. Travelers can easily spend a few hours browsing art and ancient artifacts, enjoying a spot of tea with finger sandwiches, or catching up on self-care if they so choose. But remember, with the necessary preparation, you can always go about your day as planned, too.

Get An Oyster Card

There are more than a few ways to get around London, such as walking, taxi, or Uber. But when your destination is clear across town, it is highly recommended that you explore other modes of transportation. When doing so, you will quickly see that most options accept Oyster cards. If you are unsure what an Oyster card is, it is a convenient smartcard that allows you to quickly and effortlessly pay for your fare — for buses, on the Tube, as well as when taking trams, riding the National Rail, and aboard the River Bus.

The Visitor Oyster card , specifically, makes getting around London much more straightforward and is the more budget-friendly choice. Available in various amounts, travelers can order these handy cards before their trip and receive them at home. Even if you only plan on taking advantage of the Tube or the tram occasionally, you won't have to waste valuable vacation time waiting in line to purchase a ticket or trying to access the city's underground train. So, do yourself a favor and get a Visitor Oyster card.

Navigate The City Like A Local

Learning to navigate the city like a local is yet another travel hack to keep in mind when strolling about London on foot. The easiest way for visitors to take to the street like a Londoner is with a quick review of the walking etiquette rules, which you can find on the GOV.uk website. Of course, you are not expected to memorize all 30-plus rules. But you definitely should keep to the left when walking and match the pace with other pedestrians (most locals walk promptly, assertively, and without being glued to their cellphones).

Other useful rules, like thoroughly looking out for oncoming traffic and staying a reasonable distance from the curb for obvious safety reasons, are also important to know. Similarly, minding the gap on train platforms, obeying pedestrian crossing lights, and reading the relevant signage make getting around the Big Smoke much more pleasant and less hazardous. Plus, with millions of people out and about in London almost every day, being considerate of others comes with the territory and is not something visitors should overlook.

Remember You're On Military Time

When deciding what activities or excursions to book, it is vital that you pay attention to the date and time. The U.K., in general, uses both the 12-hour and 24-hour notations. But you will see more 24-hour clocks while on vacation in London. And, to avoid any confusion regarding daytime versus nighttime hours, people tend to stick to military time for departure times, business hours, showtimes, and more. So, get ready to do a quick math problem in your head if you are not used to the 24-hour clock.

Similarly, London visitors need to be on the lookout for how the date is written. Typically, you will see the date as day-month-year. Therefore, it never hurts to double-check your bookings and make sure your reservations are for the right day. Both the date format and the use of military time may throw you off at first. But you can save yourself a lot of trouble, especially when making travel arrangements online, by simply recalling these fun facts.

Book Everything In Advance

Speaking of bookings, there is a wealth of entertainment available in the Big Smoke, often only a few clicks away. From enjoying the royal jewels and afternoon tea bus tours to appreciating the arts and the iconic figures of yesteryear, you can indulge in it all. In fact, with so many things to do and see here, you may find you are short on time before you have even begun.

A tried-and-true travel hack to ensure you get the most out of your trip to London is to book everything in advance. Why spend valuable time waiting in long lines? The harsh reality is that seating for most activities and dining experiences is never first-come, first-serve, and everything tends to cost more the day of or at the box office. Likewise, popular events, day trips, and highly rated excursions are bound to sell out fast. So, take a second when planning your London getaway to book reservations, tours, plays, spa treatments, and anything else that piques your interest beforehand.

Make The Most Of Free Admission

Adding free-entry art houses, the best museums in London , and larger-than-life libraries to the itinerary is also a great travel hack, especially if you prefer to stay on a budget. Saving money in such an expensive city is always a win, and you can explore fine art spaces, world history, science, fashion, and more while you save. Several must-sees like the British Museum, the British Library, the Tate Britain and Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the Science Museum, and the Design Museum do not charge admission.

And even though there are just a dozen or so museums, galleries, and libraries in London that are free to the public, they are some of the most renowned. But free admission does not stop there — the Royal Parks and the City of London churches are also wonderful other no-cost options. Plus, the Big Smoke is known for its gratis events and festivals that happen all year round — providing more opportunities for visitors to make the most of free admission.

Hit The Shops During The Week

For luxury brand enthusiasts and avid shoppers, London does not disappoint. In fact, this city is home to some of the best brand-name outlets around. Spectacular shopping districts that will have you spending your vacation pennies include Oxford Street, Regent Street, Covent Garden, and St. James's. Unsurprisingly, these high-end shopping areas, in particular, are overflowing with people, especially on the weekends. As a result, if you come to shop, it is better to do so during the week.

Besides these above-mentioned districts, London visitors can also find incredible shopping at Bond Street and Mayfair, Westfield Shopping Centre, King's Road, Carnaby, and Seven Dials. Though these spots are often less crowded on the weekends in comparison, they still offer quite the selection and attract the masses. However, instead of luxury lifestyle brands, shoppers will find emerging designers, the latest fashions, and one-of-a-kind home goods — making a weekday spree the better choice for snagging highly coveted items before they are gone.

Order At The Bar When In Pubs

Table service at a pub is quite uncommon in London. To avoid not being served, patrons must order and pay at the bar. The same goes for snacks or pub eats — ordering happens at the bar. Typically, patrons order drinks, pay, and then carry their pints and cocktails back to their seats. For food requests, you will likely be given (or have to provide) a table number for your grub so it can be brought to you.

Ordering at the pub bar while doing the complete opposite in restaurants or other dining establishments may initially seem odd or slightly annoying. But when you think about it, it actually makes life a little easier. You do not have to worry about giving a tip and flagging someone down for another round. Patrons also do not have to sit around aimlessly waiting for the bill so that they can pay and leave. Instead, when you are ready to move on to the next pub or call it a night, you simply get up and go.

Try The Cuisine

The British are not necessarily known for their cuisine, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try the food. The culinary experience you can have while visiting the Big Smoke may just surprise you. Not only are there diverse options in this multicultural mecca, but there are some classic dishes such as fish and chips, Beef Wellington, bangers (sausages) and mash, Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, and other must-tries.

In addition to some quintessential Londoner eats, travelers who have never sat down for afternoon tea should add a classic London afternoon tea or two to their to-do list. Foodies willing to try it all can savor the hearty full English breakfast, shepherd's pie, Scotch eggs, and bubble and squeak (potatoes and cabbage fried to perfection). What's more, for travelers with a sweet tooth, London has more than a few desserts like the sticky toffee pudding, Eton mess, and a trifle that will satisfy your cravings.

Skip The Tip While Eating Out

Tipping in London is definitely tricky business. Many restaurants have a 12.5% service charge automatically added to the bill. So, tipping is not necessary there. Alternatively, drinking establishments do not have a service charge, and tipping isn't really part of the process. Therefore, skipping the gratuity when eating out or grabbing a few drinks with friends is perfectly acceptable.

However, tipping does come into play in hotels and with certain hospitality services -- spas, taxis, and private tours. In these instances, the general rule of thumb is to tip somewhere between 10% and 15% for hotel dining, porters, door staff, massage therapists, and so on. When taking a black cab, leaving gratuity becomes a little more discretionary. At the end of the fare, travelers can decide to tip or not — though it is considered polite to either round up or add on a few pounds if you are happy with the service.

Budget Accordingly

When visiting London, going over budget or getting carried away on Regent Street is not difficult to do. From eating out every single day and excursions (both near and far) to shopping, treating yourself, and transportation, things can start to add up quickly. Most travelers budget for flights, accommodations, and entertainment and aim to spend a reasonable amount of money per day per person in this famous old city.

Still, those same travelers forget to consider the exchange rate and are often shocked at the cost. London isn't cheap by any means. Thus, budgeting for any trip across the pond should incorporate the exchange rate, money-saving tips, and everyone's individual travel style. You should also factor in last-minute price changes in your itinerary and unforeseeable expenses (lost items, medicines, other modes of transportation, and more). And remember, when creating your travel budget for London, you need to be honest with yourself — are you trying to splurge or save? This way, there will be no surprises.

Make Room For Day Trips

Lastly, for travelers who have already seen most of the city sights, making room in your itinerary and budget for a day trip or two is highly recommended. Spending days on end in the Big Smoke is exciting, fast-paced, and full of amazement. Nevertheless, this may be one of the only times you are this close to the English countryside, fascinating ruins, castles, quaint seaside villages, vast hiking trails, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and the whole of Europe.

Even if all you need is a mini-break from the hustle and bustle of the city, more than a few phenomenal destinations (including other countries) are only a train ride away. Paris, for example, is only two hours away. Plus, wanderers staying for a couple of weeks can spend their weekends in other far-off and magical places. Ultimately, a semi-lengthy London getaway can be whatever you decide to make it — and with these travel hacks at your disposal, you can make visiting London and its surrounding bits an exceptional experience you will never forget.

Read the original article on Explore .

Politics latest: PM 'appalled' by police protest row; Truss backs Trump and Sunak to win elections

Former prime minister Liz Truss has blamed her downfall on "deep resistance within the establishment" in an interview with Sky News. Meanwhile, Labour leader Keir Starmer has said the Tories have "lost any right" to call themselves patriotic.

Sunday 21 April 2024 15:15, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Liz Truss refuses to apologise for higher interest rates in Sky News interview
'I want Rishi Sunak to win' - Truss
Adam Boulton: What Truss and Trump have in common
PM 'appalled' by police protest row
Met Police chief's resignation 'not the way forward' - Labour
Rishi Sunak 'not a real Conservative', Reform leader claims
General election date 'above my pay grade' - Sunak ally
Labour vows to get prisons built
Tap here to subscribe to Electoral Dysfunction
Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

But before you go, here are the headlines:

Liz Truss has refused to apologise to homeowners for higher interest rates in an interview with Sky News;
The former prime minister also said she had changed her mind on "problematic" net zero legislation;
The Metropolitan Police chief is facing calls to quit over the force's handling of a recent pro-Palestinian protest;
He will meet Jewish groups after the force threatened to arrest an "openly Jewish" man;
Labour's shadow justice secretary told Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips the force have "not covered themselves in glory", but the Met chief's resignation is not "the way forward";
Reform UK leader Richard Tice has accused Rishi Sunak of not being a "real Conservative," telling Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips there will be a "realignment of the right";
A number of MPs are running the London Marathon today, including Chancellor Jeremy Hunt who is running the race for the third and "the last" time.

We'll be back from 6am with all the latest.

People voting in local elections in England on 2 May will need to provide photo ID.

It is the second year the requirement has been in place - but in 2023, 14,000 people couldn't cast their ballot because they didn't take ID to the polling booth.

There are 22 different types of ID you can use - and if you don't have any of them, you can register for a Voter Authority Certificate.

Here's everything you need to know to avoid being caught out:

We have been reporting today that there's a lengthy list of MPs taking part in the London Marathon today - with one MP running for the 18th time ( see post at 11.27am ).

But none so far have taken the title for fastest-ever MP to run the race from Matthew Parris.

In 1985, he ran the marathon in 2 hours, 32 minutes.

The Times columnist and former Conservative MP told Sky News he is "intensely proud, inordinately proud" at the achievement.

"I would almost think it is the thing of which I am most proud in my entire political career," he said.

"I had trained so intensely.

"Up hill, down dale - I would run into the House of Commons for a vote and run back after the vote."

He said he even got stopped by the police once running back from a vote.

"It was a better result than I could have expected, so I was very proud," he said.

A power-sharing agreement between the SNP and the Greens at Holyrood is under threat after the Scottish government ditched a key climate change target.

The Scottish Green Party has said a vote on the deal, to be held at a forthcoming extraordinary general meeting (EGM), would be binding.

The date of the assembly and the crunch ballot has yet to be announced.

There is unhappiness among Green Party members after the SNP announced the Scottish government was scrapping its commitment to cut emissions by 75% by 2030.

The Rainbow Greens, the party's LGBT wing, has also criticised the announcement, which came on the same day that the prescription of puberty blockers for new patients under the age of 18, at the gender identity service in Glasgow, would be paused.

The decision followed a landmark review of gender services for under-18s in England and Wales.

Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie said he would be urging members to back the power-sharing agreement so the party could "put Green values into practice" in government.

Writing on X, he said "many" members had been calling for an EGM to discuss the future of the agreement.

But Mr Harvie said: "As part of the Scottish government, we're making a difference on a far bigger scale than ever before."

COMMENTS

London Store
Thursday: 9am - 7pm. Friday: 9am - 7pm. Saturday: 10am - 7pm. Sunday: 12noon - 6pm. We are the world's largest map and travel book retailer. Stanfords prides itself on the depth of its stock, sourced by experts, from all over the world. Our London store has been trading in the Covent Garden area since 1853.
A Visit to Notting Hill Travel Bookshop: Everything You Need to Know in
The Travel bookshop in Notting Hill is around a 10-minute walk from Notting Hill Gate station. One of the easiest ways to reach Notting Hill Gate (or anywhere in London really) is Citymapper. I rely on it endlessly and if you just pop in "Notting Hill Gate" you'll get there without a hitch.
Maps, Atlases, Travel Guides, Travel Books and Globes
The World's Biggest and Best Map and Travel Bookshop. For over 160 years, explorers, travellers and adventurers have looked to us as map specialists to get them where they need to go, and back again. Maps, Atlases, Travel Guides, Travel Books and Globes | Stanfords
Daunt Books for Travellers
Daunt Books is an original Edwardian bookshop with long oak galleries and graceful skylights situated in Marylebone High Street, London, traditionally specialising in travel literature. We also have shops in Chelsea, Holland Park, Cheapside, Hampstead and Belsize Park. We stock a wide range of books online, including fiction, non-fiction and travel guides.
Love and London: Travel Guides from Londoners
Visit London like you live here. Travel guides by Londoners who show you the local side of the city, that you won't find in traditional guide books. ... Menu. Shop; London Guides. London Itineraries; Casual Tourist Guides to London; London Spending Guide; Free London 101 Guide; Free London Trip Checklist; London Packing Guide; Articles + Advice ...
Away in London: Seven Dials
Away in London: Seven Dials. Seven Dials, come shop our lineup IRL! Our stores are also available for call and collect orders and courier services. To arrange for call and collect, please give us a call at 020 7681 0341 during our business hours, or drop us a note at [email protected].
The 10 Best London Bookshops to Visit
1 | Stanfords Travel Bookshop. Stanford Travel Bookshop has to be our favourite bookshop in London. Established in 1853, it's a treasure trove of everything travel! You can buy a lot of travel related at Stanfords beyond books. They have maps, globes, gifts, stationery and most surprisingly, a cafe selling reasonably priced coffee for central ...
40 Essential London Travel Tips For First-Timers
12. London is huge. Explore by neighborhood to avoid wasting time and money on transportation. London is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the world, covering an area of over 600 square miles. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for visitors to know where to start.
15 BEST Bookshops In London [By A Local Bookworm!]
London's best bookshops. 1. Foyles. ‍ Location: Charing Cross road. ‍. Opening times: Monday-Saturday 9am until 9pm and 11:30 until 6pm on Sundays. I couldn't make this list without mentioning what is probably London's most famous bookshop, Foyles, specifically the one on Charing Cross road. This bookstore is absolutely huge, stretching ...
Brilliant independent bookshops in London
While the shop is temporarily closed, the team are still on social media offering recommendations and posting out any books they have in stock. Address: Burley Fisher Books, 400 Kingsland Road, London E8 4AA. Telephone: +44 20 7249 2263. Website: burleyfisherbooks.com. Twitter: @burleyfisher.
The ultimate guide to shopping in London
3. ICON Outlet, the 02. This is the spot for bargain hunters with taste. Part of the O2 Arena in North Greenwich, this discounted outlet offers up to 70% off mid-luxury brands such as Aspinal of London, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Levi's.
Welcome! Buy London travel tickets
Choose from a Visitor Oyster card for pay as you go travel, a paper Day Travelcard to enjoy unlimited travel or a Group Day London Travelcard if you are travelling in group. All three tickets give you the freedom to explore London using the city's integrated public transport network. Buses cost just £1.75 for unlimited journeys within a hour ...
35+ Best Things to Buy in London: Complete London Gift Guide
Welcome to my complete London gift guide, with all the best things to buy in London, from treats to makeup, souvenirs and food! I've talked a lot about cheap clothings shops in London, and other beautiful bookshops and stationery shops, and I wanted to do a big round up - from a local.. I moved to London in 2019, and I have been shopping more than I care to admit.
The Insider's Guide to London: Where to Eat, Shop, Stay and More
For time travel, she's partial to Paul Rothe & Son in Marylebone, "a charming, old-fashioned British sandwich shop and deli. Run by the same family since 1900." Run by the same family since ...
Best 10 bookshops in London
As well as a broad range of titles in art, poetry and children's books, Lutyens and Rubinstein Bookshop in west London's Notting Hill neighbourhood is also the place to shop for art prints, stationary and small gifts, to take home inside one of the shop's signature reusable tote bags. 5. New Beacon Books.
England: 10 must-see stores in London
10 UNMISSSIBLE SHOPS IN LONDON. We have already written a very complete post about ... Opened in 1912, Daunt Books is a beautiful chain of bookstores specialized in travel books. Although it has other units in the City of London in Chelsea, Holland Park, Cheapside, Hampstead and Belsize Park, the most famous unit is the one located in ...
26 Unique Bookstores To Visit In London
1. Book Mongers (Brixton) One of London's best bookstores was founded by an American, Patrick Kelly. Dedicated fans of Book Mongers love the used bookstore's cramped but well-organized shelves. Keep an eye out for Popeye, the scrappy resident shop cat, and be sure to ask for "Popeye's Picks" when browsing the books. 2.
What to Pack for London: Packing List (2024 Update)
The best suitcase to have when traveling London is a rigid trolley case, ideally with four castors. The trolley should be divided into two compartments (not just one big compartment) for easy packing. These are easy to travel with on bumpy terrain. For a European carry-on size bag, a backpack is always a safe option.
Best shopping destinations in London
A post shared by Regent Street W1 (@regentstreetw1) Stroll through one of the most elegant shopping streets in London, Regent Street, which offers a good range of mid-priced fashion stores alongside some of the city's oldest and most famous shops. Get lost on the many floors full of toys and games in kids' haven Hamleys.
Luxury London Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Shop
Here, kings and queens, politicians and celebrities, scientists and world leaders have all eaten - it is an honour to be among them. Approx £75 to £125 per head. Or consider: Dans le Noir - Experience eating in the dark for a unique night out. Inamo, Covent Garden - A fusion of Asian dining and love of technology.
16 Best Things to Buy in London
One of the best places to buy this chocolate in London is the renowned shop in the Royal Arcade in Mayfair. 4. Harrods Coffee in an exclusive tin. ... Stanfords is the world's largest map and travel book shop, located in Covent Garden, London. For nearly two centuries, it has been a favorite of explorers and adventurers. There is a wide ...
Where To Shop In London: 10 Best Shopping Areas for Tourists and
10. Covent Garden. Shopping in London - Covent Garden. Pic credit: Fiach (Pixabay) Covent Garden is mainly known for theatres and great restaurants. However, this area boasts of some upmarket brands like Mulberry, Tom Ford, Paul Smith, Bucherer and a quaint shopping mall which used to be an apple market in the 1830's.
Best London shopping streets & shops that tourists love
London shopping. Recognized internationally as one of the world's most important fashion capitals,London is jam-packed with designer shops, luxury department stores, exclusive shopping streets and famous markets.. 1) New Bond Street For Luxury shopping that rivals Paris. New Bond Street is an 800-metre long street in London which links Piccadilly to the famous Oxford Street.
15 Essential Travel Hacks When Visiting London
Navigate The City Like A Local. Learning to navigate the city like a local is yet another travel hack to keep in mind when strolling about London on foot. The easiest way for visitors to take to ...
Politics latest: Truss admits changing her mind on net zero
The head of the Metropolitan Police - Sir Mark Rowley - is facing calls to resign after antisemitism campaigner Gideon Falter was threatened with arrest near a pro-Palestinian march in London.