Credit: Pug Girl
Have you finished your Christmas shopping list? The last days of shopping are approaching, but don’t panic, there are dreamy designer wares at Harrods, gastronomic gifts at Fortnum & Mason and the festively dressed boutiques at Covent Garden are packed with bespoke present ideas. If you’re a last minute shopper this year, there are lots of options. Here are the best places to shop this week.
Harrods
Harrods is an institution in London and deserves a visit no matter the season. Although it can be a bit overwhelming with the Christmas crowds, part of Harrods’ charm is the utter spectacle it provides. From its deliciously tempting food hall to its lavish displays of ornaments, Christmas trees, and stockings, Harrods pulls out all the stops every Christmas. Their elaborate and elegant window displays are famous world-over and are best viewed in the evening to get the full effect.
Our grand apartments are situated in upmarket neighborhoods such as Chelsea and Kensington, a mere walk to the main department stores. Read more about shopping in Our 5 Best British Christmas Gifts blog.
Oxford Street
Credit: Kyle Taylor
Oxford Street is a sight to behold this year, as glowing decorations adorn the street and fairy lights fringe storefront windows. Hundreds of brands and iconic stores call Oxford Street home, including John Lewis, Debenhams, House of Fraser and Selfridges, with a tinseled holiday display that is an event in itself. Shop here for major high street brands, handsome stocking fillers and other festive gifts.
Fortnum & Mason
Credit: Andrew Meredith
Fortnum & Mason is part of the fabric of London’s history. In this 309-year-old Georgian style building is home to all things bright and beautiful, and those of a gastronomic persuasion. Along with a plethora of tasteful gifts, you’ll find luxury food hampers here including those perfectly crafted for children. You can stock your London Perfect apartment with the finest produce and wake up on Christmas day with delicious jams, biscuits, and chocolates, to make your day merry.
Covent Garden
Credit: Aurelien Guichard
Cobbled 19th-century piazza? Mistletoe chandeliers? Even if you’ve finished your holiday shopping, it’s worth wandering through Covent Garden, where the decorations and the atmosphere are incredibly festive, with all the West End shows and restaurants in the same vicinity. If you still have some trinkets to find, the markets have a sprawling selection, or just wander through the main piazza and take in the Christmas cheer around you. You’ll be able to pick up a mulled wine and explore this ever-popular district, which truly comes alive during the festive season.
Harvey Nichols
Credit: Harvey Nichols
Located in swish Knightsbridge, Harvey Nichols, the luxury department store, is loved by the British. With brands ranging from the chic French clothing shop Maje to Valentino, you’ll find a wide display of bags, clothes, accessories, makeup, and perfume. You can also discover some of the latest food brands on the 5th floor, where you can browse the plentiful food markets.
Christmas markets
Credit: Garry Knight
If you’re searching for a cute stocking filler or a souvenir for friends and family overseas, wander London’s Christmas markets. From Hyde Park Winter Wonderland to the Southbank Centre’s Winter Market, the stalls offer a range of wares to win-over little ones, parents, and friends. The pretty chalets at the Southbank Christmas Markets are dotted along the river, and sell everything from handmade gifts to hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.
Regent Street
Credit: Andrew Stawarz
Central London is amazing at this time of year and if you still have a few items to purchase, there is an impressive selection of high-end stores. Regent Street’s angelic Christmas display is not to be missed this year and it is one of our favorites. You’ll find places like Hamleys, the oldest and most iconic toy store in the world: it’s a treasure chest sure that will put a smile on any child’s face. Regent Street is also home to luxury beauty brand, Molton Brown as well as Apple’s popular flagship store.
Gorgeous Danebury.
If you are visiting with the family, try our new Danebury apartment, located in trendy Notting Hill and conveniently located near to the main shopping areas. With two luxurious en-suite bedrooms and lots of stylish living space, it’s the perfect London pad. Happy holiday season!
Our beautiful London apartments are perfect for your winter vacation, and we can’t think of a more wonderful time of year to visit. Contact our friendly reservations team now to find out more about our amazing London offers.
