Though online ordering is popular in the UK today, hands -on experience still attracts many buyers’ attention.
Oxford Street
London is a shoppers’ paradise, and most visitors head for Oxford Street. Halfway along is Selfridges, one of the world’s first department stores where the architecture and window dressing impress you even before you go in. There are at least four other major stores on this street, plus Europe’s largest music shop. In December the atmosphere is especially festive because of the Christmas lights which are always lighted by a politician, a great sportsman,or a super star.
Kensington High Street
A fashionable area for shopping is Kensington High Street. One of its department stores even has a roof garden—good for relaxing between purchases. There’s also an organic food superstore.
Borough Market
You can’t visit London without going to a supermarket. One of the oldest and best for food is probably Borough Market on the south bank of the Thames. Get off the underground at London Bridge and wander among fresh fish stalls, bakeries, and fruit and vegetable sellers. You can also buy specialities to take away, like cheeses, pork pies, mustard and chutney.
More places for bargains
Portobello RoadMarket on a Saturday is your best choice for jewelry or collector’s items. It’s a short walk from the underground station at Notting Hill Gate and you never know what you will find. For clothes, Camden Market is the place. It gets a little crowded at the weekends, though. Convent Garden Market offers great experience for the simple pleasure of looking at jewelry and gifts.