In our 5 Shops series, we’ll give you directions to our favorite independent shops in some of the world’s best cities. From food markets to bookstores, vintage and home design, we’ve got a diverse and interesting mix of local retailers where you can pick up one-of-a-kind pieces.
When shopping in London, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the choice.
This global capital offers something for everyone – and a huge number of places to buy whatever you need. Whether you’re looking for a memorable souvenir, a great breakfast or an old gem you won’t find anywhere else, we’ve rounded up five of our favorite independent shops in London to make sure you don’t miss out. I am
The London Transport Museum shop is a great place to buy souvenirs.
For something a little more special than a Union Jack pen or royal-themed keyring, stop by the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden. You don’t need to buy an entry ticket to visit the shop, where you can find a huge selection of keepsakes inspired by the city’s famous transport network. There’s plenty of Paddington Beer for the kids, while adults can choose from vintage-inspired posters (£10), socks with red Root Masters (£12) or a set of four mugs with the unique moquette pattern seen on the seats. can. London Tube and Buses (£45).
Find the best vintage at Relic.
The neighborhood around Portobello Rd is the city’s biggest shopping destination for second-hand fashion, antiques and bric-a-brac, with the Saturday market proving particularly busy. One boutique shines the brightest: Rellik, just around the corner on Goulborne Rd. It sells a stunning array of vintage womenswear, jewelery and accessories, including budget-friendly blouses and belts for under £50, alongside an impressive selection of designer pieces from British names. , including Vivienne Westwood’s 1990 wool tartan skirt suit. 595), and international brands, such as a 1980s Yves Saint Laurent jacket and skirt set in metallic gold brocade (£385).
The best bookshop in London is Daunt Books Marylebone.
There are great bookshops in the city, but what makes this beautiful Edwardian store a must-see for tourists is its cataloging system. As it was originally a travel bookshop, the shelves in its long oak gallery are still organized geographically, which means you can browse guides, history and fiction by country or continent. Don’t leave without picking up one of the clear canvas tote bags along the storefront (£15), the most stylish way to organize your new purchases.
London’s best lifestyle boutique? Goodness
This A lifestyle store Offering affordable and luxury menswear, womenswear, beauty and homewares from British and international designers spread across two floors, it has become a staple of London’s East End. Local designers to look out for include YMC, Universal Works, folk and luxury streetwear label Aries. We also love the coastal-inspired scented candles from the skincare company Hackles (£55) in Margate, and the timeless shoes from East London brand Stepney Workers Club (from £70).
Visit Borough Market to enjoy the best food market in the city.
No visit to London is complete without a stop at the city’s oldest food market, filled with stalls selling everything from vegan cheeses to delicate pastries to classic fish and chips. To tone it down, try delicious sandwiches like pulled pork on brioche with apple sauce from Hobbs Roast (£7.50), or cheese toasties at Kappacasein Dairy (£7). Finish with a treat worth lining up for: Bread Ahead Bakery’s famous donut (£4), available in flavors such as sea salt caramel and honeycomb, chocolate or raspberry jam.