Shopping London

World shopping capital

London, of course, is unmissable as a shopping destination. The city has always been a magnet for shoppers, many of whom cross continents for the privilege. Its various shopping enclaves are legendary – Oxford Street for mainstream chain stores, Bond Street and Mayfair for luxury goods, Covent Garden and Monmouth Street for cutting-edge designer ware – as are its department stores, from Harrods and Selfridges to Liberty and Fortnum & Mason.

But don't miss London's myriad alternatives, either. Hop onto a river boat and float downstream to the famous weekend craft markets at Greenwich, enjoying the great sights of London along the way – Westminster, Tate Modern, HMS Belfast, the Tower of London and the Docklands developments. Or take inspiration from the latest designs at Spitalfields Market, where London's up-and-coming young designers show off their work. For the latest in street fashion explore the streets and boutiques of Hoxton, or revisit Carnaby Street, which has seen a big revival in recent years with an influx of new designers and quirky, offbeat shops.