SHOP SOME NEW DESTINATIONS
These days it’s only tourists and workers who battle the crowds down Oxford Street – though it’s worth giving yourself a day to explore what’s on offer, with iconic Marks & Spencer, Selfridges and other big names making it worth stopping on the strip. Nearby Regent Street is still where it’s at for high-end fashion (and just a hop to Liberty, which just may be the world’s most beautiful department store). And of course, no trip to London is complete without a visit to Harrods in Knightsbridge.
If you’re after something a little less intense, try newer shopping hotspots like Coal Drops Yard near Kings Cross station. This shopping complex and public space is part of the impressive King’s Cross Central development scheme, and the former coal sheds are now an extremely desirable luxury shopping and eating destination – both indoors and out. Cafes, bars and luxe designer stores make this worth a visit – and a walk along the canals is an added bonus.
East London is THE place for retail therapy – why not wander around the upmarket boutiques here in what was once quite the rough part of town? Shoreditch is the spot for one-of-a-kind clothes and accessories, with boutiques and second-hand stores on every corner. If you’re looking for bargains nearby, Brick Lane’s Sunday market is the place to look, while those with more contemporary taste should head to Redchurch Street for designer and streetwear labels.
Close by is Spitalfields – a lively revamped hotspot in East London that is now home to a busy seven-daysa-week market selling everything from fashion, homewares and accessories to vintage and antique clothing, food and furniture.