London's Best Stores and Shopping Districts

Filled with famous one-stop department stores, huge outdoor markets, stylish boutiques and quirky specialty shops, London's a prime hunting ground for shoppers of all tastes. In fact, with so many choices, most visitors simply can't decide where to start or may spend all their time running from one end of the city to the other. But as the locals will tell you, there's a much simpler, more enjoyable way to score some hot purchases.

London is divided into many interesting neighborhoods, most of which have one or two key shopping districts. No matter which part of the city you're in, you'll be able to find a shopping district nearby. While most of them are far from homogeneous, each one does have a distinct niche. With the personalities of each area in mind, decide whether you're looking for flea market finds, antiques, gifts for the family, edible treats, famous brands or the latest fashions.

First-timers to the city pour from the Tube stop at Knightsbridge to behold the grandeur of Harrods, the city's seven-floor department store known for its elegant interiors, swanky merchandise, restaurants and gourmet food halls. Extremely popular with tourists, the store's as enticing as it is overwhelming, but prices are steep and crowds thick. If you can't resist all the bells and whistles, go for it. Otherwise, look for similar items at some of the "smaller" department stores. Also located in Knightsbridge, Harvey Nichols is known for its clothing selection, while Fortnum and Mason has an outstanding variety of luxurious gifts, a food hall and wine bar.

If you prefer an eclectic selection of shops and galleries, check out Covent Garden. Artisans market their work in the courtyard of this enticing covered market, surrounded by sidewalk cafes, bookstores, boutiques and furniture stores. The district frequently hosts seasonal events, too, from a summer food market featuring exhibition chefs and gourmet vendors to a Christmas tree lighting festival.

A visit to Chelsea is a must for people who like trendy home décor and inventive luxury items. Its primary shopping street, King's Road, is filled with enthralling shops selling high-end home goods, clothing and toys, as well as a Virgin Megastore. On Saturdays, Partridges Food Market satiates hungry shoppers with hot Asian eats and luscious cupcakes and pastries.
 
Rich in historic character but filled with new energy and development, Bermondsey Square in Southwark attracts discriminating shoppers with its more than 50-year-old antique Bermondsey Market, held every Friday. Over 500 vendors sell fine furnishings, silver, china and other pricey wares dating back to the 19th century. Recently revitalized, the neighborhood also offers galleries, restaurants, bars and a movie theater. When you need a break from antiquing, stop in for a beer or glass of wine with some flat bread and hummus at Bermondsey Kitchen. 

Nearby Kensington is lined with picturesque parks and landmarks. Although the neighborhood offers a variety of goods, its main emphasis is antiques. Among notable galleries, Haslam and Whiteway offers art and furniture from the Victorian, Gothic Revival, and Arts and Crafts movements, while Raffety and Walwyn down the street specializes in antique clocks and watches.

Serious bargain hunters and flea market fiends enjoy sorting through racks of vintage clothing and galleries overflowing with furniture, arts and crafts at London's markets. Second-hand clothing, trendy designer apparel, arts and crafts, books, music and antiques are just a few of the various items found at the Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. Food vendors sell everything from fresh produce to delicacies like gourmet cheeses, olives and baked goods.

For London's funkiest finds, head north to Camden Market. Best known for its fringe appeal, this district's comprised of boutiques and galleries and several large street markets, where you'll find retro posters and rugs, faux fur jackets and handmade gifts, as well as an even more fascinating crowd of shoppers