There are so many great things to do in London, and shopping is definitely high on the list. If you’re heading to the capital for a touch of retail therapy, we’ve put together a selection of the top spots you should check out.
Where To Shop For Clothes in London
London is the fashion capital of the world, so there is nowhere better to shop for clothes. From the biggest brands to unknown gems, here are the best shopping districts in the city.
Oxford Street
Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus
Stores include Selfridges, Debenhams, House of Fraser, John Lewis, Primark
For all the biggest names and iconic high street flagship stores, head straight to Oxford Street. At nearly one and a half miles long, there’s guaranteed to be a shop here that takes your fancy. Explore the stunning flagship Selfridges store along with its famous food court, or head to Topshop to check out the best in high street fashions, along with the stores very own vintage section.
Westfield London
Nearest tube station: Shepherd’s Bush
Stores include Lipsy, Dermalogica, Ted Baker, Lululemon, Monki
If you’re getting caught out in the good old British weather, why not take refuge in Westfield London? This indoor shopping centre has everything you need under one roof, making it ideal for a rainy-day shopping fix. Explore fashion and beauty favourites, then rest your feet at one of the centres many options for food and drink.
Carnaby Street
Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus
Stores include Brandy Melville, Dr Martens, C.P. Company, True Religion
If you’re wanting to combine shopping with exploring one of London’s most iconic areas, Carnaby Street is our number one choice. This famous London shopping street offers a variety of things to see and do, from cutting edge clothing to art installations and bars. With the shops you can expect a mixture of price points, from affordable through to designer – something to suit every taste and budget.
If you’re visiting London for shopping, why not check out our Thistle Piccadilly hotel? Placed right in the centre of the action and just a short walk from Carnaby Street, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring central London.
Kings Cross
Nearest tube station: King’s Cross St. Pancras
Stores include American Vintage, Folk, Paul Smith, Boutique by Shelter
Coal Drops Yard is just a short stroll away from Kings Cross train station and is a great spot for fitting in some last-minute shopping before your train home. This inspired shopping space is full of well-known names alongside new, emerging brands. Throw in a great mix of cafes and bars, and Coal Drops Yard is a London shopping destination you won’t want to miss.
Must See Shops in London
As well as fabulous shopping destinations, there are also some iconic standalone shops in London that are well worth a visit.
Liberty of London
Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus
Liberty is a beautiful traditional Tudor inspired building, and the beauty continues as you step inside. With its wood panels and classic features, it doesn’t get much more quintessentially British than this! At Liberty, you can explore a stunning range of jewellery, clothing, homeware and beauty goods, alongside a wonderful festive selection if you’re visiting during Christmas time.
Harrods
Nearest tube station: Knightsbridge
Harrods is the world’s most famous department store, and a shopping trip to London isn’t complete without a wander around its seven floors of luxury. From shoes and handbags through to homewares, each item exudes elegance. With such an exclusive range, Harrods is understandably a little pricey. If you’re not ready to splash out on designer goods just yet, the selection of chocolates, biscuits, gourmet groceries and gifts in the food hall make a lovely treat.
Hamleys
Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus
Hamleys is the oldest toy shop in the world, boasting an impressive seven floors of toys and games. If you’re visiting London with kids, they’ll absolutely adore a trip here – and we’re pretty sure you will too! From traditional cuddly toys and teddy bears through to the latest cutting-edge toys, Hamleys will definitely put the fun into your London shopping trip.
What Time Do Shops Close in London on Sunday?
While London’s opening times tend to be more generous than other areas around the country, Sundays still have a more limited trading time. While many bigger shops will stay open until around 6 pm, you can expect some to begin closing up from 4 pm onwards.
Smaller shops, independent boutiques, or spots outside of the centre may close all day on a Sunday, so it’s always worth checking opening times for individual stores if there is somewhere specific you’d like to visit.
If you’re planning a shopping trip to London, why not stay in one of our centrally located Thistle hotels? From Thistle Trafalgar Square to Thistle London Hyde Park Kensington Gardens, you can find the perfect convenient base for your visit to the city.