London is a treasure trove city, filled with beautiful, unique items that are synonymous with it old streets and classic style. So today I’ve put together a list of the very best things to buy in London, either for yourself or loved ones. Carefully selected souvenirs can be such a personal reminder of your travels and are something I love to collect! I’ve tried to include things that you can only buy in London (as I find this makes the items feel all the more special!).
So, during your stay, make sure to skip the souvenir shops on every corner and instead head to one of these classic institutions. These special gifts will make much more of an impact (and last much longer!) than a Union Jack t-shirt or Queen Lizzie bobblehead!
So without further ado, here are 31 of the best things to buy in London…
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Best Things to Buy in London
1. An Umbrella from James Smith & Sons
The old-world facade of James Smith & Sons is worth a visit, whether you’re in the market for an umbrella or not. Its decorative lettering and dark wood stands out against the modern storefronts of New Oxford Street, giving it a quirky and unique feel. Founded in 1830, James Smith & Sons makes luxury umbrellas for the ladies and gentlemen in you life.
There are now two further branches, at Savile Row and New Burlington Street, but make sure to visit the New Oxford Street shop to get a glimpse of the traditional Victorian fittings.
And you won’t just find any old umbrella here. In fact, the handles more closely resemble magic wands with various animals carefully carved into them.
Address: Hazelwood House, 53 New Oxford St, London WC1A 1BL
Closest Tube Stations: Tottenham Court Road or Holbon
2. Tea from Fortnum and Mason
If there’s one thing the Brits love, it’s tea! In my UK Bucket List: 100 Things to Do in UK, I included afternoon tea at Fortnum and Mason. Why not take some of the magic home with a canister of their excellent tea. They have hundreds to choose from. Go classic with a breakfast tea or plump for a little luxury with some rose pouchong.
If you’re looking for something really traditional, opt for the Royal Blend. In 1902, King Edward VII set Fortnum and Mason a challenge of finding the best tea in the world. The Royal Blend was what they came up with and continues to be one of their most popular flavours.
If purchasing as a gift, why not opt for one of the decorative tea caddies that they can use for years to come?
Address: 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1A 1ER
Closest Tube Stations: Piccadilly Circus or Green Park
3. A Hamper from Fortnum and Mason
Fortnum and Mason aren’t just known for their tea. In fact, the thing they’re probably most famous for is their luxury hampers. These beautiful gifts are a Christmas tradition for many. Beautiful wicker baskets filled with items from the food hall and emblazoned with an F & M, these are the ultimate gift.
There are hundreds of a varieties available, ranging from £70 ‘Taste of Highgrove’ hamper to the opulent £1,000 ‘Windsor’ hamper. This pricey basket has everything you need to bring the luxury home with you!
Address: 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1A 1ER
Closest Tube Stations: Piccadilly Circus or Green Park
4. Fabric from Liberty London
Liberty’s is another bastion of London. Its beautiful Tudor building hides just behind Oxford Street Station and, once again, is worth a visit just to see! On entry, you’ll walk past fragrant, fresh flowers and into a cornucopia of perfectly picked items.
But if you’re wanting the classic gift, make sure to look out for anything with the infamous Liberty print. They describe their print archive as a ‘national treasure’ and it’s true that they’re synonymous with British culture. You could of course opt for some of their signature Tana Lawn cotton to do with what you wish. Or alternatively opt a stunning silk scarf, printed makeup bag, or lined journal.
These little pieces of luxury are truly iconic and make the perfect souvenir from your trip.
Address: Regent St, Carnaby, London W1B 5AH
Closest Tube Station: Oxford Circus
5. Chocolates from Prestat
Prestat Ltd is one of London’s oldest chocolate shops. Established in 1902 by Antoine Dufour and a royal warrant holder for a number of years, Prestat’s flagship store can be found in Piccadilly. If you’re looking for some of the best chocolates in the world, this is the place to go.
Prestat is a favourite of the Queen. In fact, she requests a chocolate egg for the Royal family and herself each year. And if it’s good enough for the queen, it’s good enough for us!
Address: 14 Princes Arcade, Piccadilly, St. James’s, London SW1Y 6DS
Closest Tube Station: Piccadilly Circus
6. A Vintage Shadow Box from Pollock’s Toy Shop
Pollock’s Toy Museum is a colourful and eclectic museum, filled with artefacts from a bygone era. It’s one of the city’s weirdest attractions – here you’ll find string puppets, old dolls, and rocking horses.
In the 1800s, it was popular to assemble paper cut play houses and reenact the popular performances on their mini stage. Pollock’s is dedicated to preserving the art of toy theatre.
And in Covent Garden, you’ll find the accompanying toy shop. Here you can buy your very own toy theatre, which makes a great gift for children or can be framed as a piece of art. Though technically a toy, each one is extremely beautiful and does an excellent job of recreating the work you’d find in Victorian England.
Address: 44 The Market, London WC2E 8RF
Closest Tube Station: Covent Garden
7. Paddington Bear from the Paddington Store
‘In London everyone is different, and that means anyone can fit in’
This sweet little bear is one of London’s biggest icons. If you haven’t already watched the Paddington Movies, do so immediately! I promise you’ll become obsessed instantaneously.
And once you are, make sure to head to the Paddington store to get your fix of everything Paddington. They sell all sorts – from books to aprons, t-shirts to pencil cases. My personal favourites are: How to be More Paddington: A Book of Kindness, and the beautiful collectable Paddington Bear.
Address: Paddington Station, London W2 1HB
Closest Tube Station: Paddington
8. A Football Scarf from your Favourite Club
There are 6 London football clubs in the Premier League:
- Arsenal
- Chelsea
- Crystal Palace
- Fulham
- Tottenham Hotspur
- West Ham United
Each one has a whole host of memorabilia and kit on offer at their stadiums – the perfect present for any football fan. Grab the newest kit or buy a scarf to keep out the chill London air.
9. Perfume from Penhaligon’s
Penhaligon’s is a beautiful and unique perfume house, known for its traditional British style. Founded in the late 1860s by William Penhaligon, the business quickly became a roaring success. In fact, they were even perfumer to Queen Victoria!
If you’re looking for something extra special, this is the place to go. You can even get your perfume bottle engraved in-store! I’d recommend purchasing a scent at the beginning of your trip and wearing it each day after. That way, whenever you put it on, it’ll remind you of London!
There are various locations across London, so do a quick google search to find the closest one to you. The flagship store can be found on Regent’s Street.
Address: 125 Regent Street, London, W1B 4HT
Closest Tube Station: Piccadilly Circus
Things You Can Only Buy London
10. Art Materials from L. Cornelissen & Son
Cornelissen’s opened in 1855 and has been the ultimate haven for artists ever since. The walls are lined with paints and pigments of every colour and brushes of every size. Find parchment clippings, wax, and gold leaf all in apothecary jars that look like they belong in Diagon Alley.
You won’t find higher quality art supplies anywhere else in London and, as with many of the stores on this list, it’s shop front is visually stunning.
Address: 105 Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3RY
Closest Tube Station: Tottenham Court Road
11. A London Christmas Ornament
This is one of my favourite souvenirs to collect. Purchasing an ornament in each place you visit is a great way you build the ultimate travel-themed Christmas tree. Often souvenirs are briefly loved only to be pushed to the back of a draw within a few weeks. By purchasing a Christmas ornament, once a year you’ll be able to reminisce on all of your past adventures.
The best places to buy quality Christmas ornaments tend to be at the big department stores:
- Liberty’s of London
- Harrods
- Fortnum & Mason
- Selfridges
I personally have a gorgeous, velvet beaded bauble shaped like the Fortnum and Mason shop front. It’s one of my favourites and every time I add it to the tree, I’m reminded of the day I bought it.
12. A Hat from Lock & Co
Founded in 1676, Lock & Co is the world’s oldest hat shop and the worlds 34th oldest family-owned business. The shop has been in its current location since 1765 and was the creator of the bowler hat!
The company has many famous customers, including Lord Nelson, Oscar Wilde, Winston Churchill, David Beckham, Charlie Chaplin, and Prince Phillip. So you’ll be in good company if you decide to make a purchase here.
You can still purchase one of their iconic bowler hats today. But if you’re looking for something a little more modern, they have plenty else to choose from, including bucket hats, beanies, bakerboys, boaters, and many more.
Address: 6 St. James’s Street, London, SW1 1 EF
Nearest Tube Station: Green Park
13. Coffee from Algerian Coffee Stores
Algerian Coffee Stores was opened in 1887 by a merchant from, you guessed it, Algeria. It’s remained in business ever since, surviving World War 2 and a number of subsequent financial crises.
Beyond the candy cane striped awning, you’ll find row upon row of teas and coffees from across the globe. These include a rare bean grown in the volcanic soils of Hawai’i. If you’re looking for some seriously delicious (and very special) coffee, you have to check this place out.
You can take the beans or tea leaves home with you as a souvenir if you like, or if you’re just looking for an excellent drink in soho, you can get one for just £1.20 to go.
Address: 52 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 4PB
Nearest Tube Station: Leicester Square
14. Lingerie from Rigby and Peller
If you want to splash out on lingerie that’s a favourite amongst the stars, you need to head to Rigby and Peller. Founded 1939 by Gita Peller, a Jewish Hungarian refugee, and Bertha Rigby, an English corsetiere, the company has provided bespoke undergarments for the Queen since 1960.
But she’s not the only famous fan. Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johansson, Lady Gaga, Nigella Lawson, and Dawn French have all made purchases from the luxury lingerie brand.
They now have a number of boutiques across the city.
Address: 22A Conduit Street, London ,W1S 2XT
Nearest Tube Station: Oxford Circus
15. Whisky from Milroy’s of Soho
Milroy’s of Soho is London’s oldest whiskey specialist. They sell over 500 different whiskeys and offer guided tastings every Monday evening. You won’t find anywhere with a better selection in London!
There’s also a secret bar hidden behind a bookcase – the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the London streets for a tipple.
Address: 3 Greek Street, London W1D 4NX
Nearest Tube Station: Tottenham Court Road
16. Biscuits from the Biscuiteers
The Biscuiteers cafe in Notting Hill has to be one of the prettiest places in London. Its black and white exterior is almost as delicious as its biscuits.
They sell beautiful iced biscuits, with ever-changing themes dependent on the season. The London and Paddington Bear options are a particular favourite of mine. Their lovely biscuit boxes and tins make the perfect edible gift (although it might be difficult to bring yourself to eat something so pretty!)
Address: 194 Kensington Park Road, London W11 2ES
Nearest Tube Station: Westbourne Park
17. A Royal Sugar Bowl from Buckingham Palace Shop
The Buckingham Palace Shop is a must-visit for anything royal. Filled with everything you could think of, you’re bound to find a souvenir here.
If you want to get good use out of something, why not opt for a Longest Reigning Monarch Commemorative Sugar Bowl or Buckingham Palace Cushion. Or if you’re looking for something a little more fun, they have a top selection of stuffed toy corgis!
Address: 7 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0PP
Nearest Tube Station: St. James’s Park
18. A Wand from the Harry Potter Store
Harry Potter fans have to visit the Harry Potter store at the one and only King’s Cross Station. Whilst you’re waiting, you can grab a photo with a trolley making its way through the wall at Platform 9 and 3/4.
The shop is styled to resemble Ollivander’s wand emporium, so where better place to buy your very own wand? There’s also plenty more on offer, including time turners, house jumpers, Hogwarts robes, and pins.
Nowadays it’s not too hard to get hold of Harry Potter memorabilia anywhere in the world but there’s something particularly special about getting it at the very station he boards the Hogwarts Express.
Address: King’s Cross Station, London N1C 4TB
Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St. Pancras
19. Antique Finds from Portobello Road Market
Portobello Road Market is a great place to explore at the weekend in the Notting Hill area. The street is lined with antiques and crafts vendors, selling all sorts of weird and wonderful things. Make sure to also check out the shops that line the roads too, though, as you’ll often find some incredible pieces hidden beyond the market tents. The most famous antique shop has to be Alice’s, an eccentric shop filled with peculiar mix of pieces from the past.
Address: 306 Portobello Road, London W10 5 TA
Nearest Tube Station: Ladbroke Grove or Notting Hill Gate
More Things You Can Only Buy in London
20. A Print from the V & A
The Victoria and Albert Museum is not only London’s but also the world’s largest museum of applied and decorative arts and design. It was founded in 1852 and named after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The museum now houses over 2.27 million objects, spanning 5,000 years and 145 galleries.
See something you like during your visit? The V & A offers a wide selection of prints in its gift shop. Pick out your fave to bring a piece of the museum home with you!
Address: Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
Nearest Tube Station: South Kensington
21. A Harrods Bear
Harrods has to be the boujeeist department store in London. It has 330 departments covering 1.1 million square feet of retail space, making it one of the largest department stores in Europe.
You could easily stroll around for hours looking at the various things on offer but if you’re looking to buy something iconic from Harrod’s, head for the souvenir department and pick up one of the Greenman Bears. These beautiful bears are dressed in the classic Harrod’s uniform.
Get a small one for £20 or go all out and buy a 6 foot version for £1,900 – you might struggle to fit it in your suitcase though!
Address: 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL
Nearest Tube Station: Knightsbridge
22. Anything from the Harrod’s Food Hall
And if you’re visiting Harrods, you have to make a stop at their food hall – possibly the most luxurious and beautiful food hall in the world, let alone London! Here you can find any delicious treat your heart desires.
It’s split into various sections. In the fresh market hall you’ll find exotic fruits, delicious cheeses, meat, and seafood. Walk through to the chocolate hall for handmade truffles and colourful macarons, or the bake hall for beautiful patisserie, delicious bread, tea and coffee.
Address: 87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL
Nearest Tube Station: Knightsbridge
23. Maldon Sea Salt
The Maldon family have been making English salt since 1882. This sough after salt is loved by chefs around the world, thanks to its unique pyramid flake. This is the perfect gift for any serious foodie.
In 2012, Maldon Salt were granted a Royal Warrant as official purveyors of sea salt to the royal family.
You can purchase Maldon Salt in most large London supermarkets.
24. A Suit from Savile Row
Savile Row is home to some of the finest suits in the world. This London street is famous for its men’s tailoring. Tailors have been doing business here since the late 18th century. And it continues to be the ‘it’ place for bespoke suits.
Affectionately known as the ‘golden mile of tailoring’, the street has seen many a famous customer, including:
- Winston Churchill
- Prince Charles
- Benedict Cumberbath
- Eddie Redmayne
- Jude Law
- Lord Nelson
- Tom Hardy
- And many more
So you’ll be in good company if you decide to purchase a suit from one of the many reputable Savile Row retailers. This is certainly one of the more luxurious things you can only buy in London.
Address: Savile Row, W1S 3NE
Nearest Tube Station: Oxford Circus or Green Park
25. Gloves from Cornelia James
The story of Cornelia James is an inspiring one. James arrived in England in 1939 as a refugee from Vienna (which was under Nazi occupation at the time). By 1947 she was asked to make gloves for the Princess’s outfit. By 1979, she became glovemaker ‘by appointment’ to Her Majesty the Queen.
Cornelia James continues to supply gloves to the royal family. Their gloves have also been worn by a number of notable celebrities, including:
- Taylor Swift
- Ariana Grande
- Rhianna
- Madonna
- Benedict Cumberbatch
- Lady Gaga
- Billie Eilish
The gloves are crafted in East Sussex but can be posted to your hotel or rental apartment.
What to Buy in London
26. Chocolates from Paul A Young
Paul A Young is famous chocolatier local to London. He regularly features on television shows in the UK. He and his team make all of their chocolates completely by hand in their shops with fresh ingredients. You won’t find any compounds, concentrates, essences, preservatives, or additives!
These chocolates make the perfect gift for the chocaholics in your life (or yourself!). Choose from elegant truffles to If you’re feeling really daring, try the marmite-filled chocolate bar!
Address: 33 Camden Passage, N1 8EA
Nearest Tube Station: Angel
27. A Magazine from MagCulture
MagCulture celebrates all things (you guessed it) magazine! They showcase over 600 titles from across the world in one space, creating a magazine shopping experience like no other. Whilst they do ship next day to many countries, the real joy of MagCulture lies in the perusing before purchase. In fact, it’s encouraged by the store!
The rows upon rows of magazines will have your falling in love with the art of print all over again. And the wide selection means there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes.
This is the perfect place to pick up an obscure read to keep you entertained on your flight home.
Address: 270 St John Street, EC1V 4PE
Nearest Tube Station: Angel
Souvenirs You Can Only Buy in London
28. Truffle Manchego from Cheeses of Muswell Hill
If Cheese is your thing, you’ve got to head to Cheeses of Muswell Hill. This beautiful little shop is heaven on earth for cheese-lovers. They specialise in artisan cheeses of all varieties – from your classic cheddar to something a little different.
The staff here are super knowledgeable. So, whatever your preferences, they’ll help you find something to your taste.
One of their bestsellers is the truffle manchego, which is certainly worth a try!
29. Books from Hatchards
Established in 1797, Hatchards is London’s oldest bookshop. It stocks a great selection of books, including limited edition copies that are exclusive to Hatchards. In the past they’ve sold numbered leather bound copies of Beatrix Potter stories, as well as Nancy Mitford exclusives that cannot be found anywhere else.
Hatchards is yet another shop on this list with a royal warrant. In fact, they have two! One for the Queen, and one for the Prince of Wales. Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, was one of the store’s very first customers.
Address:
Nearest Tube Station:
30. Sherlock Holmes Memorabilia from The Sherlock Holmes Museum
The shop at the Sherlock Holmes Museum has the self-proclaimed best collection of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia in the world. Here you’ll find everything from tankards to games to prints.
You’ll find the museum at the infamous 221b Baker Street address. Fictional detective Sherlock Holmes lived here between 1881 and 1904 and the place now pays homage to him for tourists from around the globe. The Georgian townhouse is protected for its cultural heritage and even has its own blue plaque.
Address: 221b Baker Street, Marylebon, NW1 6XE
Nearest Tube Station: Baker Street
31. Coffee from Monmouth Coffee
Monmouth Coffee is a big name in the coffee world and a firm favourite among Londoners. They source and roast coffee from single farms and estates, priding themselves on knowing exactly who grows, picks and processes it.
The coffee itself is delicious. As a result, you’ll often find a queue out the door for a cup of the stuff. It is, of course, entirely worth it!
And there you have it – 31 things you can only buy in London! I hope you have a wonderful time exploring the city and treating yourself or your loved ones to the perfect souvenir. Don’t forget to pin this blog post so you can come back to it later! If you’re ever stuck as to what to buy in London, you’ll always be able to gather some ideas.
