We all know that Oxford Street is the Holy Grail when it comes to shopping in the capital, but in a city as big as central London it shouldn’t surprise you to know that there are hundreds of other streets boasting equally, if not even better, shopping delights. Venturing away from the crowds in any situation is usually a good thing and in this case it could save you hours of queuing and elbowing your way through people. Yet, Central London is an unruly beast and knowing where to start can often be difficult. Fear not, we have compiled a list of our favourite shopping streets in this busy city.
Carnaby Street
Just off of Oxford Street, Carnaby Street is much quieter and has a fabulous selection of boutiques for the more discerning shopper. Choc-a-block full of high-end brands, independent stores, gastropubs, gourmet restaurants and quaint cafes, this street has pretty much everything you need for a full on shopping spree. Take a photo under that famous arch before shopping ‘til you drop (in a metaphorical sense, of course).
Covent Garden
A steadfast icon on the London shopping scene, Covent Garden doesn’t just have some of the best shopping in London but it is also one of the most beautiful malls you will encounter in the country. Situated right next to the London Transport Museum, this hall of indulgence has everything from Chanel to chocolatiers to stationary boutiques. Top it all off with a pizza place, Jamie’s Italian and Shake Shack and you’ve got yourself a serious day out.
Mayfair
There’s a reason that Mayfair is the most expensive property on the Monopoly board. In what can only be described as a billionaire’s playground, Mayfair is where people with some serious cash to burn can get their fashion fix. With the most expensive brands in the world lining the streets, ready to make mind-bogglingly high transactions, and Italian sports cars waiting outside, this area of Central London is certainly not for the budget spender.
Charing Cross Road
Although it is better known for its theatres and train station, Charing Cross Road is home to an impressively large Foyles along with a few other high street staples such as H&M and Topshop. Combined with a plethora of eateries from EAT to Five Guys to Itsu, you can find pretty much anything to suit your taste (in every sense of the word) along this busy thoroughfare.
Burlington Arcade
Although not technically a street, Burlington Arcade definitely deserves to be on this list as it is one of the most high-end malls in the city. Opulent jewellery and perfume shops fill these hallowed halls. Looking for that one pair of shoes worth spending your whole months wages on or maybe a watch for someone who has stolen your heart? This is the place to come.
Regent Street
More focused on the higher end brands than Oxford Street, but still providing some reasonably priced shops, Regent Street is one of the most popular shopping streets in the entire city. With the world-famous Liberty sitting at one end, near Oxford Circus, the main street sees the likes of Mango, French Connection, Anthropologie and so many more, there’s really nothing to love. It also has its fair share of dining and drinking options just in case you need a quick breather.
Long Acre
Long Acre is probably as close as you can get to Oxford Street, in terms of content, without actually being on Oxford Street. Home to a Zara, H&M, Jack Wills, TK Maxx, Pandora, Gap just to name a few, it is a true haven for shoppers from all walks of life. While this street can get pretty busy during the weekends, it’s a far cry from some of London’s other shopping hubs. Grab a treat from Lola’s cupcakes or a coffee from Caffe Nero to top off the experience.
