Shopping Areas in London

You’ll never be lost for choice if you're shopping in London, but on first arrival the number of places to go can be somewhat overwhelming. Even those that live in the capital can easily get set in their ways and avoid venturing away from trusted favourites, but for those prepared to brave the unknown, chances are you'll unearth some true hidden treasures. To help you in your explorations, this list is here to take you through the top shopping areas scattered all across the capital. 

Portobello Road Market
Praised in movies as diverse as Bedknobs and Broomsticks and Notting Hill, this two-mile stretch has played host to endless stalls of antiques for the best part of a century. As observed by Hugh Grant in the second film, the authenticity of these wares is somewhat questionable - 'some genuine and some...not quite so genuine' - but browsing through the eclectic collection of wares is easily fascinating enough to compensate for any overenthusiastic claims. Famous for furniture, trinkets and homewares, the vintage clothing and jewelry stalls also don't disappoint.
Camden Passage, Islington
Ideal for shoppers who prefer to avoid the tourist crush, this little alley runs parallel to Islington High Road and is home to niche clothing boutiques, antique shops, costume and textile retailers and trendy cafes. The unique stalls and wide variety of wares make this a great place to head to on a sunny day, with the picturesque canal just a short walk away. 
Carnaby Street
Famed in the 60s as a center for mod fashion, today the street retains an independent charm thanks to a healthy dose of vintage stores, art galleries, international cafes and old-world pubs. Keep an eye out for pop-up stores, with plenty of quirky temporary outlets frequently emerging to take advantage of the tourists and bargain-hunters already in the area. 
Westfield Shopping Centre
With a center on either side of the capital, you're never far away from the immense retail outlets that are London's Westfield Shopping Centres. Situated at Stratford in the east and White City in the west, here you'll find hundreds of high street stores under one convenient roof, along with all your favourite restaurants, cafes and even a 17-screen cinema. 
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This is a featured post. Image by London Attractions Guide via Flickr.