London offers one of the best shopping experiences of any city in the world. Whether you are looking for something to take home for someone special, antiques, clothing, food items or anything else you're interested in, you're sure to find it the city of London. For major international and British Brands, London's main shopping areas tend to center around Oxford Street and Regent Street, while Knightsbridge is home to stores stocking even more upmarket goods.
Harrods Department Store in Knightsbridge has an international reputation for quality. Spread over seven floors, highlights include the Egyptian Room and their stunning food halls. If you do plan to visit, make sure you dress sensibly as the store operates a dress code of sorts. Under the splendor of the original Art Nouveau skylight, Harrods' flagship restaurant, The Georgian Restaurant, offers a wonderful afternoon tea (from 3.45 pm) with finger sandwiches, patisserie, scones and clotted cream. Not to be missed for the most English of experiences!
Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly is a must for anyone who likes to shop. F&M has been in business since 1707 and is known primarily for its famous food hall offering traditional English favorites such as teas, relishes, chutneys and preserves. So, if you're after a true (edible) souvenir of England, you may find it here!
Marks and Spencer, Oxford Street, West End. The popularity of M & S's food halls has never been in doubt, as lines at lunchtime will confirm. So, if you fancy a picnic in nearby Hyde Park, buy your lunch before midday to avoid the rush.
Selfridges, Oxford Street, West End. Oxford Street's most famous store is now an even better shopping experience, and one that's certainly hard to beat anywhere, just for the sheer range of products they offer.
Independent/smaller fashion shops and boutiques - located on the streets around Covent Garden, with an ever growing number returning to London's famous Carnaby Street, which has enjoyed a renaissance as a trendy fashion destination over the last couple of years.
Grays Antique Market, 58 Davies Street. As home to over eighty antiques dealers, Gray's is arguably the finest market of its kind in London. Situated in the heart of the city's West End, the market's grand 19th-century premises provide an atmospheric setting in which to browse for a bargain. A real treat for antiques enthusiasts, a visit to Gray's should not be missed.
Portobello Road Market, Portobello Road. The biggest market in London with more than one and a half thousand stall holders and a number of enclosed arcades. The market is primarily associated with the antiques trade, but is also a great place to find almost anything, particularly clothes and second-hand records.