Oxford Street, located in the City of Westminster, existed from Roman times until the 17th century primarily as a westwards route out of the City of London towards Oxford, hence its name. Today, Oxford Street is one of the busiest shopping districts and the world’s largest shopping street, having more than 300 shops that attract annually around 200 million of consumers.
The development of Oxford Street as a prime shopping area began at the start of 20th century, when the first furnishing specialists, Waring & Gillow, opened its doors in 1906. In recent years, Oxford Street represents the heart of London’s West End shopping, running for approximately a mile and a half from Marble Arch at the north east corner of Hyde Park, through Oxford Circus to St Giles’ Circus, at the intersection with Charing Cross Road and Tottenham Court Road. Opposite to the Tottenham’s tube station, the recently refurnished, “The Tottenham” pub claims to be the only pub on the whole Oxford Street. But, with numerous clothes shops, record shops, like the famous Virgin Megastore and the HMV unit, which is the largest music store at 50,000 square feet, multiple computer games shops and department stores, including Selfridges, Oxford Street is an ideal location for those on leisure travel and time to browse through its colorful shopping windows. But although the street has multiple stores for one to choose from, these are not the most fashionable or the most expensive in the city of London. For those interested in other principal shopping areas, Knightsbridge is an excellent choice, especially because it is there where the famous Harrods department store is located.
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London is famous for being a shopping Mecca that even tempts the reluctant shopper. The range of products on offer in London varies from the stylish to the eclectic with something for every sort of taste.
To begin your shopping experience it is essential that you stop at Burberrys which is located in 165 Reagent Street. This brand which is world famous for its tartan inspired clothing and accessories is pricey. For those with smaller pockets the store is still worth a visit – because it has an authentic British feel to it that you don’t get in very many shops.
No trip to London is complete without a Trip to Harrod’s of Knightsbridge. You will find this brown hued shop at No 87-135. On your way in to the shop do marvel at the amazing window dressing. This is the shop where you can buy anything – which includes elephants! Luxury brands of every kind fill the shop spaces. The architecture of the interior is inspired by Egypt courtesy of its current owner. Don’t forget to buy the wonderful Harrods Insignia Chocolates which you can find in Chocolate section. There is an amazing food court which encompasses foods from around the world and simply amazing sea food. Do also drop by the Princess Diana memorial on the lower ground floor.
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Shopping District of Central London
If you can’t find it here you won’t find it anywhere! The main shopping areas of Central London are found in the West End. This area includes Oxford Street, Regent Street, Bond Street and Covent Garden.
Oxford Street is definitely the main shopping street of the whole city and is an excellent starting point. Many chain stores host their flagship store on this street such as Selfridges, the UK’s 2nd largest department store; John Lewis, the UK’s 3rd largest department store; and others such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, Zavvi, House of Fraser, Topshop and Primark.
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