Going to London next week - any fun places to shop?

I should have given more detail! I'm not looking for anything in particular. I value quality, ethically made clothes. I like having useful momentos from travel. It can be a nail polish or an article of clothing that will last a long time. It will be fun!

10 years ago

Carole

Veteran

We leave in 3 weeks, Laura. My first time so I am no help...just wanted to wish you a wonderful time!

10 years ago

Sal

Veteran

It was five years ago that I went to London, and I loved Islington/Angel area. Lots of smaller shops, bakeries, boutiques....I really loved it.

We also spent an afternoon in Coventry Garden and I went to Kings Road too, both great shopping but more chain stores or department stores.

I loved the Victoria and Albert Museum too, they had a Grace Kelly exhibition!,

10 years ago

approprio

(website)

Veteran

The Natural Shoe store on Neal Street is where you should go for ethical footwear. Doc Martens have a flagship store right next door and there are many other interesting shops in that neighbourhood.

If you want an afternoon vicariously shopping the very best of the best, I highly recommend a trip to Dover Street Market. It's full of high end avant-garde stuff and very, very fancy. I never buy anything but I love to spend an hour or so just looking when I'm in town.

10 years ago

Elle

Veteran

We got a strange but cute clock at the Covent Gardent market (lots of different vendors). The Portobello Road market can get crazy crowded but is fun if you go early. I'd suggest looking (since you can't afford to buy) at the beautiful arcades (Burlington Arcade, Royal Arcade). Old Spitalfields Market is another interesting building with different vendors. As you can see, my shopping leans heavily towards outdoor markets and street fairs.

I second the V&A recommendation and be sure to at least look at the eating rooms of the cafeteria (over the top Victorian decor).

Have a great trip!

10 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

If you love color, you might like Boden. I took a trip on the tube to their London store last time I was there, and it was worth the trip. Of course the usual suspects of the London department stores and high street are always fun too, if not so eco friendly.

10 years ago

Karin L H

Veteran

I love going to markets when I'm in London, and then I prefer east London. It's not always easy to find something there, but there are always some stands with small, independent, and often eco-friendly clothes. My favourites are Spitafields Market and Sunday Up Market. Go to Liverpool Street Station, from there it's just a short walk away! Best look it up on a map if you're going.

I went to London in March and asked for shopping suggestions, one of the recommendations was for Joules, and I ended up buying a dress there! Colourful, cute and fun pieces!

Hope you'll have a wonderful trip!

10 years ago

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