Where to shop in London
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There are plenty of chain-packed shopping destinations to devour in London if that’s what you’re hungry for. Regent Street and Westfield are replete with the high street’s usual suspects; for a host of designer boutiques – with a side of afternoon tea at one of our finest hotels – look no further than Mayfair. But for a taste of authentic London flavour, an insight into our dynamic creative hubs, or to buy something truly unique, it’s all about the independent stores. Online shopping may have changed our lives, but there’s nothing like a scroll-free stroll around the bricks-and-mortar versions to get to know a neighbourhood. Every Londoner has been asked, “Where’s the best place to shop?" In such a sprawling and diverse city, the answer is perhaps not, “What are you buying?” but “What are you in the mood for?” Here’s our guide to where to shop in London – for every mood.
Shoreditch
In the mood for: Concept stores and vintage bargains
Home of the hipster, Shoreditch contains some of London’s best restaurants and is home to many of the city's creatives. Explore the boutiques surrounding Shoreditch House: on one side, there’s unassuming Redchurch Street, where brands like A.P.C and Reformation nestle beside concept stores like Labour and Wait; on the other, you’ll find Box Park’s compact pop-up shops. Head to Brick Lane (grabbing lunch at Beigel Bake) to discover some of London’s best vintage stores: Serotonin Vintage for ’80s and ’90s garbs or, on weekends, the Vintage Market – a nostalgic, underground world. For a further dose of history, nearby Spitalfields is one of the most charming places for shopping in London – discover the weekly antique market on Thursdays, where rows of relics await.
Don’t miss…
Goodhood: A major destination for streetwear fans, Goodhood has recently upsized to a larger home on Hanbury Street. Find a great streetwear edit, including menswear and womenswear as well as beauty and grooming.
Address: 15 Hanbury Street, London E1 6QR
Website: goodhoodstore.com
Labour and Wait: A homage to timeless utility, this is a carefully curated store full of functional yet aesthetically pleasing kitchen and homeware.
Address: 85 Redchurch Street, London E2 7DJ
Website: labourandwait.co.uk
Luna and Curious: Owned and run by three creatives, this is both a wonderland of whimsy and a celebration of British craftsmanship, stocking womenswear, kidswear, homeware and toys. Pop in on the way to lunch at the inimitable Rochelle Canteen around the corner.
Address: 24-26 Calvert Avenue, London E2 7JP
Website: lunaandcurious.com
Rough Trade East: A window into East London’s vibrant music scene, this legendary record store is set in an edgy warehouse. Its impressive album selection, intimate live gigs, and stylish café make it a must-visit for audiophiles.
Address: Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London E1 6QL
Website: roughtrade.com
Columbia Road
In the mood for: Blooming bouquets and tasty treats
Sundays are for East London’s famous flower market – a riotous array of flora, fauna and fawning crowds. If you can wrestle your way to the pavement, you’ll find them lined with charming Victorian boutiques. “On a sunny day there’s nothing better than seeing hundreds of people balancing enormous bunches of fresh flowers, perched on the side of the road, with Bloody Marys in hand,” says Emily Attrill, founder of Straw London, which found its home on Columbia Road in 2020. Afterwards, slip off for a delicious Italian lunch at Campania, or head to a Throwing Taster Workshop at Columbia Road Clay’s drop-in pottery studio.
Don’t miss…
Straw London: Founder Emily’s love of vintage baskets led her to set up Straw London, which also sells delights such as cotton nightdresses and shearling vests among a selection of considered homeware.
Address: 126 Columbia Road, London E2 7RG
Website: strawlondon.co.uk
World Of Echo: A haven for music lovers, offering an expertly curated selection of rare finds, timeless classics, and contemporary gems. High-quality listening stations allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the authentic sound of vinyl.
Address: 128 Columbia Road, London E2 7RG
Website: worldofechomusic.com
Colenimo: This independent clothing shop creates unique, seasonless designs in local factories using considered fabrics. Think Irish linen shirts and classic wax jackets.
Address: 110A Columbia Road, London E2 7RG
Website: shop.colenimo.com
Two Columbia Road: A treasure trove for 20th-century furniture enthusiasts, brimming with mid-century lighting and art.
Address: 2 Columbia Road, London E2 7NN
Website: twocolumbiaroad.co.uk
Soho
In the mood for: sampling London’s famous rebellious spirit
Soho’s many faces – as a destination for sex, theatre and fine dining – sometimes overshadow its shopping chops. But Alex Eagle, Soho local and founder of her eponymous store, says, “It’s still a great place to find treasures… there are still so many independently owned stores and it’s a place where unconventional people like to shop.” Rock out at Sister Ray Records or Reckless Records; nose around vintage nooks Reign and Duke’s Cupboard. Cult Scandi brands like Ganni and Stine Goya are clustered on Beak Street and, of course, no London shopping trip is complete without a visit to the legendary Liberty London department store.
Don't miss…
Alex Eagle Studio: A gallery-like experience, Eagle stocks a tasteful mix of her own label and carefully selected pieces of art, homeware and beauty.
Address: 6-10 Lexington Street, London W1F 0LB
Website: alexeagle.com
William Curley Patissier Chocolatier: Tucked away in Smith’s Court, this is the place to buy a delicious gift or, as Eagle says, “go solo and sit for a moment for a little indulgence”.
Address: 33 Smith's Court, London W1D 7DP
Website: williamcurley.co.uk
Liberty London: A slice of London heritage, this beautiful mock Tudor building is a creative escape from the Regent Street bustle. Shop designer fashion, gifts and quirky interior buys.
Address: Regent Street, Carnaby, London W1B 5AH
Website: libertylondon.com
Annie’s Ibiza: This cult brand, which epitomizes haute bohemia, has set up shop on Newburgh Street, their iconic embellished dresses stocked alongside other designer brands.
Address: 3 Newburgh Street, Carnaby, London W1F 7RE
Website: anniesibiza.com
Marylebone
In the mood for: discovering chic menswear brands
Exhausted after a tramp down Oxford Street? Take a diversion via Selfridges and discover Marylebone. “It’s sophisticated, understated and has a calming village-like quality about it,” says designer Charlie Casley Hayford of Marylebone; his flagship boutique is only a stone’s throw from famous party spot Chiltern Firehouse. “It’s populated with beautifully curated independent stores rather than saturated with chain stores.” Wind down in chic French boutiques, Sezane and Sandro or dip into the Wallace Collection for a moment of calm. Then finish your day with a peaceful wander down Chiltern Street – great for menswear and earthy concept stores like Mouki Mou.
Don’t miss…
Casley Hayford: Originally founded alongside his father Joe in 2009, Casley Hayford is renowned for pioneering a new menswear suiting. With womenswear options too, this is the place to go for top tier tailoring.
Address: 3 Chiltern Street, London W1U 7PB
Website: casely-hayford.com
John Simons: Known for Ivy League and preppy styles, this store is a sanctuary for those who appreciate timeless, sophisticated menswear.
Address: 46 Chiltern Street, London W1U 7QR
Website: johnsimons.co.uk
VV Rouleaux: The ribbon alchemist, offering a wide collection of ribbons and trimmings. This renowned shop is perfect for designers and DIY enthusiasts seeking unique embellishments.
Address: 102 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QD
Website: vvrouleaux.com
La Fromagerie: With two other venues in Highbury and Bloomsbury, this shop and café specialises in mouth-watering artisanal cheeses from around the world.
Address: 2-6 Moxon Street, London W1U 4EW
Website: lafromagerie.co.uk
Notting Hill
In the mood for: perusing designer vintage
“When people think of shopping in Notting Hill they envisage a tourist trap,” says local, and sustainable fashion and lifestyle influencer, Kelly Eastwood, “but away from the weekend hustle and bustle it’s a treasure trove of eco-conscious boutiques and independent retailers”. Hit up Golborne Road for an eclectic mix of bric-a-brac, upmarket interiors at Studio Duggan or Phoenix on Golborne, and classic vintage at Rellik or Found and Vision, the latter “dangerously close to the infamous Leila Bakery”. On Fridays and Saturdays (the former is less busy) Portobello Road Market explodes onto the streets with rare collectibles, fresh produce, and artisanal food – a true reflection of the borough’s diverse spirit. Nip to quieter and smarter Portland Road (check out Summer Hill or Bishop and The Cross) for a break from the mayhem.
Don’t miss…
Jessie Western: Founded by sisters Jessie and Vicky, expect handcrafted jewellery, clothing, and accessories sourced directly from Native American artisans.
Address: 82a Portobello Road, London W11 2QD
Website: jessiewestern.com
Phoenix on Golborne: Unassuming yet intriguing from the outside, inside, it’s packed full of large-scale, beautifully restored antique furniture and some great vintage lighting.
Address: 67 Golborne Road, London W10 5NP
Website: phoenixongolborne.co.uk
Couverture & Garbstore: Since 2008, Emily Dyson and Ian Paleythis have been stocking creative concept specials and championing new designers.
Address: 188 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2ES
Website: couvertureandthegarbstore.com
One Of A Kind Fashion Archive: a veritable institution on Portobello Road, this is just not any old vintage store. It’s an archive of designer fashion by the likes of Galliano, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. By appointment only.
Address: 259 Portobello Road, London W11 1LR
Website: oneofakindarchive.net
Belgravia
In the mood for: Elevating your interiors
A vanguard of interior experts have turned Pimlico Road and Orange Square into the spot for unique designs and, to quote local jeweller Jessie Thomas, “top quality craftsmanship.” On Saturdays, a farmers’ market fills the square with delectable smells. After lunch at The Orange Pub, charming Elizabeth Street is just a short walk around the corner. Lined with predominantly independent fashion and childrenswear boutiques alongside Instagrammable coffee shops, don't miss the annual street party if you’re visiting in June. After a mingle, head down to Eccleston Square for dinner at Wild by Tart or a drink at Amie Wine Studio.
Don't miss…
David Thomas Goldsmith / Jessie Thomas Jewellery: Master Goldsmith David Thomas has been crafting bespoke, handmade jewellery since the ’60s. Now, his daughter Jessie has taken the reins, making simple but intricate, timeless pieces that transcend trends and have caught the attention of the fashion set.
Address: 65 Pimlico Road, London SW1W 8NE
Website: jessiethomasjewellery.com
With Nothing Underneath: Founded by ex-Tatler editor Pip Durell, WNU is the place to buy the perfect shirt – inspired by men's tailoring and British heritage, expect every imaginable iteration from classic cotton to linen to seersucker.
Address: 47 Elizabeth Street, London SW1W 9PP
Website: withnothingunderneath.com
Robert Kime: Interior designer Kime is one of several world-renowned names in this community. “A phantasmagoria of fabrics, furniture and objects,” says Jessie Thomas, “I would furnish my house exclusively from here if money was no object”.
Address: 190-192 Ebury Street, London SW1W 8UP
Website: robertkime.com
John Sandoe: An icon of an independent bookstore since 1957, “The booksellers here know everything,” says Thomas, “It’s three levels of organised chaos.” Stuffed with rare editions, non-fiction tomes and beloved classics, you could spend a day leafing through their literary wares.
Address: 10 Blacklands Terrace, London SW3 2SR
Website: johnsandoe.com
Chelsea
In the mood for: Indulgent foodie finds
The birthplace of 70s punk, Chelsea’s reputation has evolved into one of London’s smartest postcodes. After sampling some culture at the Saatchi Gallery, wander down pedestrianised Pavillion Road to indulge at the sumptuous stationery shop Papersmiths or Sarah Chapman's beauty refuge. Weave through the pretty back streets of King’s Road, admiring the period architecture, to Chelsea Green, where a foodie paradise awaits. Don’t miss one of London’s oldest cheesemongers, Paxton and Whitfield, and pick up lunch at the Pie Man. “It’s not just about the stores,” says Antonia Johnstone, founder of iconic consignment store Sign of the Times around the corner. “It’s about the community and the character that each shop brings to the area.”
Don't miss…
Sign of the Times: One of London’s original second-hand designer stores, Sign of the Times was established almost 50 years ago and continues to be a goldmine of preloved designer goods.
Address: 5 Elystan Street, London SW3 3NT
Website: signofthetimeslondon.com
Amaia kids: This charming independent store is run by Amaia, who makes delightful yet wearable childrenswear inspired by traditional Spanish designs.
Address: 14 Cale Street, London SW3 3QU
Website: amaialondon.com
Felt: An eclectic Aladdin’s cave of jewellery, from vintage to costume pieces; allow plenty of time to scan the many cabinets of trinkets.
Address: 53 Godfrey Street, London SW3 3SX
Website: feltlondon.com
Wilde Ones: A remarkable compendium of South American imports, this is one of the few remaining original independent stores on King’s Road.
Address: 283 King's Road, London SW3 5EW
Website: wildeones.com
Brixton / Peckham
In the mood for: Gorgeous gifts and international cuisine
After an Okonomiyaki at Okan in Brixton Village, weave up through Herne Hill’s Sunday market, poking your nose in at White Feather, which stocks a great mix of Scandi brands. Next, head to buzzing Rye Lane. “The market sells everything from Afro-Caribbean food to fabrics and fresh vegetables, all amongst independent shops. Go here if you want to get a taste of real Peckham,” suggests Tintin Macdonald, co-founder of art platform Felt Collections and Peckham local. From there, seek solace on the peaceful Bellenden Road, with its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafés and galleries.
Don't miss…
Lamp London: A must-visit for lighting enthusiasts, with pieces mostly sourced from smaller independent designers or direct from artisans. “I particularly like their selection of vintage pieces, like the veined onyx lamp bases,” says Macdonald.
Address: 20b Maxted Road, London SE15 4LF
Website: lamplondonhome.com
FORM SE15: Bringing art into everyday living. Specialising in contemporary home décor and accessories, it combines artistic flair with functional design. A great place to buy presents.
Address: 186 Bellenden Road, London SE15 4BW
Website: formse15.com
Gather: A soothingly zen zero-waste refillery for household staples, allowing you to shop with a conscience.
Address: 121 Bellenden Road, London SE15 4QY
Website: wearegather.uk
Frost: Open only weekends, Frost provides a mix of mid-century modern furniture and design pieces. “They currently have a 1950s Robin Day recliner in a cream bouclé that is my dream chair,” reports Macdonald.
Address: 144 Bellenden Road, London SE15 4RF
Website: instagram.com
King's Cross
In the mood for: Heavenly homeware
A short walk from the imposing King’s Cross Station towards Granary Square shows just how much regeneration is still taking place in this urban hub, which has transformed into one of London’s restaurant hotspots. Start your day with brunch at Granary Square Brasserie (in the summer, the fountains provide a great free activity for kids). Next, explore Coal Drops Yard, designed in 2018 by architect Thomas Heatherwick, who cleverly juxtaposed historic charm with contemporary cool. “It’s not just about shopping – it’s a spot where you can hang out,” says Nicola, founder of Cissy Wears. “Explore and enjoy the buzz of regular events and cool architecture.”
Don’t miss…
Cissy Wears: Blending fashion, homeware, and lifestyle, this unique store is dedicated to modern parents looking for tasteful options in clothing, toys, and accessories.
Address: Unit 89, Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DQ
Website: cissywears.com
Botanical Boys: A verdant oasis specialising in terrariums and indoor plants. The knowledgeable staff offer workshops and bespoke services, helping you create your own miniature garden sanctuary.
Address: 21 Bagley Walk Arches Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DH
Website: botanicalboys.com
Kitchen provisions: A culinary haven in the heart of the city stocking a curated selection of artisanal kitchenware and gourmet ingredients. Each item reflects a commitment to quality and craftsmanship, from hand-forged Japanese knives to bespoke coffee blends.
Address: Unit 31, Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DQ
Website: kitchenprovisions.co.uk
Earl of East: What started as the store’s founder selling hand-poured candles has now evolved into a light and airy boutique, a must-visit destination for those seeking gorgeous scents.
Address: 87 Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DQ
Website: earlofeast.com
Hampstead
In the mood for: A village feel within the city limits
This village within the metropolis has long drawn artists, writers and discerning shoppers alike. A visit to the artfully restored Keats House and is a great way to while away the morning, followed by a stroll on the rolling Heath and a matcha latte from Ginger and White. The main drag offers all the usual smart boutiques like Ba&Sh, but hidden in the back streets are some independent gems and unmissable charity shops such as Boutique by Shelter and Oxfam bookshop, filled with second-hand gems donated by well-heeled locals. Craving a sweet treat? “No trip to Hampstead is complete without a visit to La Creperie de Hampstead – for a crepe that rivals the Parisians,” says photographer and local Candice Lake.
Don’t miss…
Keith Fawkes: A fantastic second-hand book and antique store. “Everything is sprawled out on the pavement and I never leave empty-handed. It’s always been my favourite place to find treasures and feels reminiscent of what all shops would have been like in Hampstead 100 years ago,” says Lake.
Address: 1-3 Flask Walk, London NW3 1HJ
Maud and Mabel: An art gallery and shop founded by Karen Whiteley and rooted in the Japanese concept of shibumi – characterised by understated beauty it’s full of striking but simply designed objects from ceramics to art.
Address: 10 Perrin's Court, London NW3 1QS
Website: maudandmabel.com
Happy Returns Toy Store: They don’t make toy shops like this anymore. Stocking everything from classic Schleich, to stickers and party favours, it’s likely to keep your kids happily occupied for a good hour.
Address: 36 Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 1NH
Website: happy-returns.co.uk
The Hampstead Butcher and Providore: A must-visit for gastronomic enthusiasts, offering premium cuts of meat from local farms and a hand-picked selection of gourmet cheeses and deli buys. Be prepared to queue alongside savvy locals picking up supplies for the weekend.
Address: 56 Rosslyn Hill, London NW3 1ND
Website: hampsteadbutcher.com