Shopping

Shopping in Central London: A guide for every shopaholics

Dune London
Shopping in Central London

Central London is a retail paradise, whether every fashion style that you follow. From the cobbled charm of Covent Garden to the luxury-lined avenues of Mayfair and the grandeur of Regent Street, each area has its own personality—and shopping credentials to match. This guide covers the best places to shop in the capital that every shopaholic should know about.

Where to shop in Covent Garden

Whether you’re after designer fashion, unique gifts, skincare staples or luxury jewellery, Covent Garden is one of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods for a day of retail therapy.

The Yards : A modern retail hub just off Long Acre with stores like & Other Stories, L’Occitane, and Snow+Rock. Great for fashion, beauty, and casual cafes in a stylish courtyard setting.

Seven Dials : A character-filled shopping area known for indie brands and ethical buys. Visit Neal’s Yard Remedies, Tatty Devine, and grab a bite at Seven Dials Market.

Covent Garden Market: Iconic covered market with artisan stalls, handmade jewellery, vintage finds, and street performances. Ideal for gifts, souvenirs, and unique crafts.

Long Acre Street: Running through the heart of Covent Garden, Long Acre Street offers a mix of high-street staples and stylish designer boutiques. A few highlights to explore include:

  •     –  Scribbler Store: A go-to for bold, cheeky greeting cards and fun stationery gifts. Perfect for birthdays, thank-yous, and last-minute laughs.
  •    –  Swarovski Covent Garden: This sparkling flagship store showcases their full range of signature crystals, jewellery, and watches — ideal for thoughtful gifts or a little self-indulgence.
  •   –   Kate Spade: Known for its playful yet sophisticated handbags, accessories, and clothing, this store delivers bold colour and iconic design right in the middle of Covent Garden.
  •   –   Néréides: A hidden gem for whimsical French jewellery, offering beautifully hand-painted pieces inspired by nature and fairy tales.
  •    –  Boots: Your reliable stop for skincare, beauty, pharmacy items and travel essentials — always handy to have nearby.

Shopping guide in Mayfair

Mayfair is where London luxury meets global style. From iconic British brands to high-end designer boutiques, this prestigious neighbourhood offers an elevated shopping experience — whether you’re browsing Regent Street’s flagship stores or Bond Street’s luxury houses.

1. Shopping on Regent Street – Best place for iconic British brands and flagship stores

Best for: Iconic British brands and large-scale flagships.

Regent Street is home to some of the most recognisable names in retail, offering a mix of heritage labels and trend-forward brands in stunning historic buildings.

  • Quadrant Arcade – Visit this shopping mall for a wide variety of stores to pick.
  • Selection of stores: 
  •     – Famous brands: Zara, Tommy Hilfiger, Gymshark, Burberry – global names with standout flagship stores.

2. Shopping along the Bond Street – Best place for luxury stores

Best for: Luxury boutiques and designer fashion.

Bond Street is synonymous with elegance and prestige, attracting fashion insiders and luxury shoppers from around the world.

Best places to shop in Soho

Soho’s shopping scene is edgy, independent, and full of personality. From fashion-forward boutiques to legendary record shops and premium menswear stores, here’s where to go for a distinct retail experience in the heart of Central London.

1. Shopping on Carnaby Street – Best place for fashion-forward finds

Best for: Trend-led fashion, exclusive collaborations, and streetwear icons.

Carnaby Street is a style landmark in Soho, known for bold looks and creative storefronts. It’s packed with brands that mix heritage with trend-savvy cool.

  • RS No. 9 Carnaby – The Rolling Stones’ official flagship store with merch, vinyl, and rock-inspired fashion
  • The Kooples – Parisian tailoring with an edge; think leather, monochrome, and attitude
  • size? – Streetwear and sneakers, including limited-edition drops and collabs

2. Shopping on Berwick Street – Best place for record stores & fabric finds

Best for: Record collectors, fabric shoppers, and Soho nostalgia.

Berwick Street keeps Soho’s indie spirit alive with its historic record shops and specialist fabric stores.

  • Sister Ray – Iconic independent record store for new releases, rare vinyl, and music culture
  • Reckless Records – Great for second-hand vinyl and deep cuts across all genres
  • Borovick Fabrics – A Soho staple for high-quality textiles and dressmaking fabrics.

3. Shopping on Brewer Street – Best place for men’s clothing & sports clothes

Best for: Premium menswear, cycling gear, and statement style.

Brewer Street caters to a more refined shopper, offering boutique menswear and lifestyle labels that prioritise quality and design.

 

 

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Where to shop in Fitzrovia

Fitzrovia might be tucked between Oxford Circus and Bloomsbury, but it packs a diverse retail punch. From designer scents and department stores to niche bookshops and sleek interiors, here’s where to shop around Fitzrovia — whether you’re furnishing a flat or just picking up something special.

1. Tottenham Court Road – Best place for furniture and tech shopping

Best for: Furniture, homeware, and tech essentials.

Tottenham Court Road is Fitzrovia’s go-to stretch for everything home and electronics — perfect if you’re setting up a space or upgrading your gear.

  • Heal’s – A London staple for stylish, design-led furniture and lighting.
  • Currys – All your tech needs, from laptops to smart home devices, under one roof.
  • Søstrene Grene – Danish homeware brand known for affordable, minimalist décor, stationery, and kitchen bits with a Nordic touch.

 

 

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2. Near Goodge Street – Best place for bookstores and quirky finds

Just a short stroll from Goodge Street Station, you’ll find a cluster of creative and curious shops that are perfect for browsing on a quiet afternoon.

  • Ryman Stationery – For office supplies, craft kits, and practical essentials.
  • Treadwell’s Books – A hidden gem specialising in esoteric, occult, and spiritual books — plus candles, tarot decks, and mystical gifts.

 

 

 

Best stores to visit on Oxford Street

Best for: High street favourites, department stores, and hidden gems.

Oxford Street isn’t just one of London’s busiest retail strips — it also runs through several central neighbourhoods, including the southern edge of Fitzrovia. That means shopping on Oxford Street gives you access to a huge range of stores, from designer flagships to budget-friendly staples, all within easy walking distance.

1. Department stores:

  • Selfridges – Luxury fashion, beauty, home and food hall experiences.
  • Marks & Spencer – Everyday fashion, food, and home staples.
  • TK Maxx – Discounted designer labels and one-off treasures.

2. Outdoor & activewear:

  • Timberland – Rugged boots, jackets, and casual outdoor style.
  • The North Face – Technical gear and modern outerwear (just outside Fitzrovia)

3. High-end & fashion-forward clothing stores on Oxford Street:

  • Swatch – Bold, collectable Swiss timepieces.
  • Manière De Voir – Street-inspired fashion brand with luxe detailing.
  • DSquared2 Department Store – A high-concept space offering premium designer menswear and accessories.

4. Hidden gems & budget buys:

  • The Fragrance Shop – Perfumes from big-name and niche brands at discounted prices.
  • Rituals – Spa-inspired body care, candles, and home scents.
  • POP MART – For collectors: quirky figurines, toys, and mystery boxes.
  • Primark – Big fashion and home bargains for less, all in one superstores.