Top 5 Best Department Stores in London

Top 5 Best Department Stores in London

1. Harrods

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How else could we start than with Harrods, arguably the most famous department store not just in London, but in the world! The name Harrods is synonymous around the globe for wealth, luxury and extravagance.

The giant glittering store in Knightsbridge was established in 1849 and a single humble store, and today boasts 330 departments set over seven floors. Here you can find the bext of everything, from clothing, electronics, food and homewares. Over the years it has enjoyed visits from countless A-list celebrities, some of whom have shut the entire store down to shop in peace.

The store’s long and fascinating history includes its complicated relationship with the British Royal Family. Princess Diana was famously fond of Harrods, and was often seen shopping there. Following the 1997 death of Diana and Dodi Fayed, the son of then owner Mohamed Al-Fayed, two memorial statues were commissioned to be placed within the store. Al-Fayed often maintained conspiracy theories that it was the Royal Family who had ordered the deaths of Diana and his son. Following this, he had the royal warrants held by the store for 90 years removed in 2000, and subsequently burned. This marked the beginning of the end for Harrods’ royal ties.

Despite this turbulent relationship, Harrods remains a favourite stop for the British upper classes and London’s super wealthy alike.

Address: 87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7XL

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 10am – 9pm, Sunday: 11:30am – 6pm

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2. Selfridges

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Perhaps best known for its distinctive shopping bags, Selfridges’ canary yellow bags are instantly recognisable, especially within walking distance of its flagship store on Oxford Street.

Founded in 1908 by Harry Gordon Selfridge, the store soon gained notoriety for its innovative marketing and unique customer service, which brought shoppers flocking to its doors from near and far. The store has always been best known for its innovation, and often used exhibits and new technologies to fascinate shoppers and keep them returning to the store.

Today, you’ll find trendy luxury brands and enough departments to kit yourself out from head to toe. Whether you’re looking to scrub up at the spa and manicure stations, or strut your stuff in the shoe department, you’ll find something there for you. At the food hall, be prepared to discover premium brands from all over the world, and must-try new tastes and food technologies.

And it’s not just the old favourite brands that you’ll find there either, as Selfridges loves to be the first to showcase hip and trendy new designers and ranges. The store has also been making moves to be more sustainable in recent years, with initiatives such as advertising sustainable brands, and advocating for plant based eating with in store cafes.

Address: 400 Oxford St, Marylebone, London W1A 1AB

Opening times: Monday – Friday: 10am – 10pm, Saturday 9:30am – 9pm, Sunday: 11:30am – 6pm

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3. Liberty

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If you’ve ever heard the term ‘Liberty print’ and wondered where it came from, wonder no more! That’s right, London department store Liberty is so iconic that it has its own design named after it.

The store itself is instantly recognisable. Situated on Great Marlborough Street in London’s West End, it instantly catches the eye thanks to its sheer size and distinctive black and white half timbered design. Inside is just as impressive, with dark dramatic wood panelling, hidden balconies and elaborate lifts.

The store originally made its name selling art and curiosities from the Far East of Asia, a place accessible for many ordinary Londoners in the 19th century. In later years it became known for its eclectic and creative design, and eventually for the distinctive and colourful floral Liberty print. Today, Liberty is all about quality rather than quantity. While you may not find the enormous range of some of London’s other department stores, you’re sure to find a curated collection of tasteful pieces from select brands and designers, both external and in house. The highly trained staff are perfect at sorting even the most complex of requests, and are known for going above and beyond for their customers.

Address: Regent St, Soho, London W1B 5AH

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 10am – 8pm, Sunday: 11:30am – 6pm

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4. Fenwick

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If the crowds of Oxford Street and Piccadilly have left you tired and ready for a break, try shopping at Fenwick. The cool and calm interior is an oasis of minimalism, clearing the mind and preparing you for some serious shopping. Everything is modest an unpretentious, making for a very different and unique luxury shopping experience

Fenwick’s elegant marble building is located on the glamorous Bond Street, where you’re just as likely to catch sight of a Masterati or an Aston Martin as catch a lift in a black cab. The store is only a stone’s throw away from the fashion powerhouses of Chanel, Dior and Gucci among others, as well as the Claridges Hotel, popular with the rich, famous and powerful.

You’ll only find the best at Fenwick, especially when it comes to upmarket clothing brands. Even the more affordable ranges are high in quality, perfect for any budget. Traditionally thought of as only for an older crowd, you’ll also find younger trendier brands here nowadays although arguably not as many as the likes of Selfridges.

Because of this, there’ll most likely be fewer tourist crowds around the store, especially at off peak times. Perfect for a weekend spent browsing and trying things on!

Address: 63 New Bond St, Mayfair, London W1S 1RQ

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 9:30am – 8pm, Sunday: 12 – 6pm

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5. Fortnum & Mason

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For sheer opulence, impressiveness and luxury, nothing beats Fortnum & Mason. With multiple fancy restaurants, it’s the perfect department store for foodies and those who enjoy the finer things in life.

The store itself dates back to 1707, but It is the food hall that is the real draw here. Visitors travel from all over the world to sample the delicacies at Fortnum & Mason’s food hall, and treats and delights from there can be found in every well stocked classy pantry in the country. Many are packaged in the store’s distinctive teal and gold packaging, making them feel even more special and luxurious.

Their food hampers are especially legendary, and are sent as extravagant gifts in their hundreds every Christmas. Packed with vintage wines, luxury condiments and premium nibbles, they come in every size and make the perfect gift, whether it’s for someone special to you or someone you want to impress.

Address: 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1A 1ER

Opening times: Monday – Saturday: 10am – 8pm, Sunday: 12 – 6pm

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