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London Department Stores Guide

London's department stores are some of the best in the world โ€” each with a distinct character, and each worth visiting for reasons beyond just shopping.

Harrods (Knightsbridge)

The most famous, the most over-the-top and the most worth seeing even if you have no intention of buying anything. The Egyptian Escalator, the food halls (some of the best in the world), and the sheer architectural excess of the place make it a sight in its own right. At its most manageable on weekday mornings; genuinely heaving on weekend afternoons. The food halls alone are worth an hour.

Selfridges (Oxford Street)

A more modern, fashion-forward proposition than Harrods โ€” strong on international designer brands, beauty, and innovative food hall concessions. The window displays at Christmas are among the best in London. Better for actual shopping than Harrods; somewhat calmer.

Liberty (Great Marlborough Street)

A mock-Tudor building from 1875 housing one of London's most curated department stores โ€” famous for Liberty print fabrics (sold by the metre and made into products throughout the store), independent beauty brands, homeware and fashion that leans distinctive rather than mainstream. Worth visiting for the building as much as the contents.

Fortnum & Mason (Piccadilly)

Royal grocers since 1707 โ€” the most civilised shopping in London. The food hall covers teas, preserves, chocolates, hampers and prepared foods at quality levels that justify the prices. The tea salon on the fourth floor is one of London's better afternoon tea options.

John Lewis (Oxford Street)

Britain's most trusted department store โ€” reliable, mid-range, and excellent for practical purchases. Less interesting as a destination than the others above, but worth knowing about for quality everyday shopping at fair prices.

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