London is home to some of the world’s best shopping destinations, so you have plenty of choice when it comes to finding that perfect gift this holiday season. From Oxford Street’s big-name brands and the boutiques of Mayfair and Chelsea to the artisan markets near Covent Garden, London Bridge and Camden, there’s something for every taste and budget. Join us as we tour the capital’s best shopping hotspots to visit this festive season…
Staying at our Bloomsbury, Holborn, Mayfair or Fitzrovia serviced apartments? Then you’re perfectly placed to enjoy the retail delights of London’s West End.
With almost 300 stores and half a million daily visitors, Oxford Street is Europe’s most popular shopping area. In the winter months, the 1.5-mile length is spangled with festive lights, and the windows of flagship stores, designer shops and boutiques are adorned with seasonal displays.
At Oxford Circus take a turn onto Regent Street, lined with both big brands and upscale designer stores. Head to Hamley’s to browse the huge selection of toys, or wander down to the iconic Tudor-revival exterior of Liberty London for high-end fashion and luxury homeware – a Liberty-print item makes a wonderful gift.
Nearby, the pedestrianised Carnaby offers more than 100 stores including global names, British heritage labels, independent boutiques, one-off concepts, beauty emporiums and bespoke jewellers. Wander down the cobbled streets of the Newburgh Quarter for cool independent stores selling everything from fashion to homeware and art.
Mayfair is famous for being one of the world's best luxury shopping destinations and our Gilbert Street serviced apartments are found right in the heart of this upscale area.
Admire the iconic blue Christmas lights as you browse designer super-brands such as Jenny Packham, Oscar de la Renta, Lanvin, Balmain and Erdem on Mount Street. For interesting boutiques, head to pedestrianised South Molton Street, where you can buy jewellery at Monica Vinader, womenswear at Claudie Pierlot and ME+EM, or high-end beauty at Space NK. A little further afield, towards Piccadilly, you’ll find premium gift hampers and luxe Christmas décor at Fortnum & Mason.
From our Bloomsbury serviced apartments, it’s only a 20-minute walk to Covent Garden’s covered markets. At The Apple Market you’ll find stalls selling handcrafted goods, as well as boutique stores. In the same complex, the East Colonnade Market is filled with jewellery stalls, sweet treats and handmade soaps, while the Jubilee Market offers a selection of antiques and collectibles. The nearby colourful courtyard of Neal’s Yard is packed with independent shops, as well as the eponymous Neal’s Yard Remedies for natural skincare.
One of London’s most famous markets is found just 11 minutes’ walk from our Camden serviced apartments. A thousand unique stalls and shops span the complexes of Camden Lock, Stables Market, Hawley Wharf, and Buck Street Village. From antiques, books and crafts to alternative clothing and natural skincare, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
Our London Bridge apartments are just around the corner from the fairy-lit stalls that make up Winter by the River at London Bridge City. Or take a short tube ride to the Wondrous Winter Market at Southbank, where you can stroll along the riverside under the festive lights, sip a mulled wine and browse the seasonal pop-up stalls for festive gifts for friends and family (and yourself…).
Looking for something a little unique? Our Chelsea apartments are all within walking distance of the 30+ chic fashion and beauty boutiques that make up Duke of York Square. The mile-long stretch of King’s Road that runs alongside it is home to more than 160 shops, including the iconic Peter Jones department store, independent boutiques and well-known brands. Or stroll down to Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, where you can shop to your heart’s delight at Harrods; during the holiday season the exterior of this renowned department store is adorned with thousands of Christmas lights.
Looking for affordable designer? London Designer Outlet, a 14-minute walk from our Wembley Stadium serviced apartments, is a great choice for big-name brands at budget-friendly prices, such as Calvin Klein, Guess, Timberland, Superdry and more.
We believe that living and working well, especially when you’re away from home, matters. Our award-winning portfolio of apartments are all serviced, self-contained and fully furnished, offering you a comfortable, convenient base while travelling.