The Insider Guide To London’s Best Shopping

London offers some of the best shopping in the world. But how do you make the most of it in a short space of time?

Assume you’re in London for only a few days. Doesn’t it make sense to focus on the well-known department stores to discover everything under one roof?

Here’s an insider’s guide to the best stores in London where you’re guaranteed to have a great time:

Harrods

Everybody loves Harrods! It’s so much fun to get lost in there for hours and hours. I especially recommend the Food Hall – try a real Italian “gelato” if you really want to spoil yourself. Although Harrods is expensive it’s always so enjoyable and you can even just window-shop!

Liberty

Liberty became famous for dressmaking but is actually a general department store. It is not especially well laid out but that’s part of its charm. The homewares department has an especially good reputation. The store is located near Regent Street.

Selfridges

Selfridges is heaven for the fashion-conscious and all those who want to browse their favourite designer brands under one roof. Don’t miss the store’s flamboyant window displays on Oxford Street. Selfridges is also known for its special events and exhibitions which change every season. The well-known Selfridges sales is also worth knowing about.

Harvey Nichols

This store is a favourite haunt of London’s upscale “Sloane Rangers” or “ladies who lunch”…you might catch sight of them with their fancy accessories in the Cafe on the 5th Floor! Harvey Nichols has almost 130 years of history. It is especially highly-regarded for beauty items and accessories.

Fortnum & Mason

This is one of London’s best stores to buy classy gifts and souvenirs, especially edible delights like tea (there are hundreds of varieties), chocolate and English jams and preserves. Sample the store’s tempting delights (such as a traditional English breakfast) in one of its restaurants. Fortnum & Mason is famous for fantastic hampers: take one with you to one of London’s fabulous Royal Parks!

Do check out the London Hotels Insight blog for further inside information on London, including the top-rated hotels. In the meantime: happy shopping!

The author provides expert tips on the best of London and real-time London hotel tips on Twitter.