It’s no surprise that there are so many high streets in the city of London. With the capital acting as a melting pot and meeting point for the arts, technological innovation and business, it’s no wonder that amidst the history and affluence this has created, there has been a huge consumer culture constantly flowing through the city. London is made from a patchwork of boroughs, all with their own personality and styles, so it’s no surprise that all their high streets and shopping districts all offer something different. Whether it’s tourist tat or boutique fashion, there’s something for everyone in London. Below are some of our favourites of the big shopping streets you shouldn’t miss, as well as some of the hidden gems.
Oxford Street
Famous for being the busiest high street in Europe, Oxford Circus certainly has good reason to be so. With so many flagship high street stores such as Topshop and H&M bringing floors and floors of affordable fashion, this district is your go-to for the high streets of all high streets. Very close to some of the best accommodation near Hyde Park, Oxford Street is a sure-fire hit for city centre shopping.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is based in central London, just a stone’s throw from Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus. This upmarket shopping district is full of designer clothes shops such as Fred Perry as well as stylish homeware shops and independent arts and crafts stores. What’s more, the Covent Garden Market is one of the most atmospheric and beautiful market areas in the city. With kitsch shops such as the Moomin store and Benjamin Pollocks Toyshop, you’re bound to find some quintessentially London shops in this buzzing West End district.
Brick Lane and Shoreditch High Street
With luxurious hotels near Chiswell Street just around the corner, this popular East London area is home to some of the most unique and culturally diverse shopping experiences out there. With Brick Lane’s beautiful range of boutique fashion shops as well as a whole host of record, literature and media outlets, you can be sure to find some of London’s coolest shops in Brick Lane. Take Box Park as an example, this incredible pop up shop market is made from repurposed shipping containers and hosts monthly carousels of some of the best in international brands as well as souvenir shops and even a watchmaker!
Camden Market
Based in north London, this iconic canal side market labyrinth is one of the most popular markets in the city. Here you can find everything from street food to vintage clothes as well as a range of great bars and music venues. Mix it all together and you have one of the most vibrant and historically arty high streets in the city.
Portobello Road
For those West Londoners looking for a touch of class with their high street, why not check out this amazing mile stretch of high street shops and on the weekend, an amazing antiques and vintage market. Whatever your needs, this is truly a jewel in the crown of London’s shopping scene.
