LONDON’S BEST HIDDEN LUXURIES

Why Burlington Arcade is the ultimate shopping experience

Shopping should be an experience. It shouldn’t be a stressful affair on a crowded street, or an impersonal click of a button; it should be a luxurious encounter from browsing through to purchase. Sadly, many of us have been lost to commercial high streets and the ease of the internet, merely arriving at our destination without a memorable journey. But if you do your research, you’ll find that there are a few original-style bastions left. Forget the chaos of Oxford Street and the hipsterdom of Shoreditch; tucked away in the heart of London’s Mayfair lies luxury shopping destination Burlington Arcade, currently celebrating its 200year anniversary and home to some of the world’s most decadent brands.

Entering the Arcade, you’re immediately struck by its old-world feel. While most modern malls are imposing glass-and-steel monoliths, Burlington is welcoming and ornate. As you stroll through with an artisan coffee from Mokka Brothers or a sweet treat from Ladurée, you’re likely to be greeted by one of the Beadles, the world’s smallest and oldest private police force.

Among Burlington Arcade’s original 51 boutiques were a number of fine jewellers, a tradition that continues today. Current tenants include

David Duggan, which boasts a curated edit of remarkable pieces from brands such as Cartier and Patek Philippe. Further along is The Vintage Watch Company, specialising in Rolex watches from 1910 to the early 2000s.

Burlington’s original brief called for “fancy articles of fashionable demand”, which in modern terms translates as premium footwear courtesy of Crockett & Jones, Church’s and the world’s only men’s Manolo Blahnik boutique, along with a full offering of shoes at the recently opened Christian Louboutin. N.Peal has also launched an exclusive 007 cashmere collection, featuring pieces worn by James Bond in Spectre and Skyfall.

If you’re in the market for a new scent, sniff out a custom-blended fragrance from former royal supplier Penhaligon’s. Further indulgence can be found beneath British perfumer Atkinsons 1799, host to a hidden barber shop where you can enjoy a relaxing wet shave, beard trim or haircut. Then round off your visit with a polish at Romi Topi’s unbeatable Shoe Shine Service. Forward-thinking yet uniquely steeped in tradition, Burlington Arcade is a rare diamond of the West End.

○ Discover Burlington Arcade for yourself at 51 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London W1J