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 Modern Society; 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.