If you’re heading to London to indulge in some retail therapy, you won’t be disappointed. London has a plethora of shopping districts, each catering to a different shopping style. Check out our guide to the best areas for shopping in London near your accommodation in Paddington.
1) Covent Garden
Covent Garden is a shopping destination and a cultural district in the heart of London’s West End theatre district. The grand covered market in the heart of the piazza features boutiques, artisan stalls and cute cafes. Visit the Tuesday to Sunday market to shop for unique jewellery, art prints and handicrafts. Around the piazza you can find leading designer and high-street fashion stores as well as outdoor and technology outlets. You could complement your London hotel deal with a post-shopping trip to see a West End theatre show.
2) Portobello Road Market
Of all the markets in London, Portobello Road Market is one of the most famous - with a very eclectic variety of goods to browse. Open Monday to Saturday, it’s the final day when the market comes into fruition. All types of stalls open on Saturday, covering food, clothing, antiques and general bric-a-brac. Friday is the best day to shop for antiques. Close to accommodation in Paddington London, Portobello Road is best explored as early as possible to beat the crowds. Don’t forget to take your camera and photograph the beautiful pastel-coloured buildings.
3) Carnaby Street
Carnaby is a network of 14 streets comprising shops, cafes and bars. Carnaby Street is part of the bustling Soho neighborhood, and is moments from Regent’s Street. British brands, independent boutiques, and unique concept stores define the lion-share of the shops. Hip cafes will keep you fuelled with coffee and pastries, and chic wine bars provide the perfect end to your spree. Check out this guide to the best shops on Carnaby Street before you go.
4) Regent Street
Regent Street is where you can find flagship stores such as Hamley’s toy shop, upmarket clothing brands and evocative fragrance boutiques. It was built in 1819 under the architect John Nash and features some of the most distinguished architecture in London. You will find a mixture of stores, ranging from fragrance and beauty brands, high-end fashion and high-ticket spas. Regent Street is the home of Liberty’s department store, one of London’s most iconic shopping destinations which sells everything from homeware, the clothing, to beauty products.
5) Camden Market
Very conveniently located for the hotels near Paddington station London, Camden Market is a lively area actually encompassing several markets. It is where you can find vintage treasures, one of a kind clothing and whacky trinkets. Most of the stalls and shops are one-off boutiques, catering to a more alternative style. You can also find handicrafts sourced from around the globe. There are secondhand bookshops and vinyl stores. You can even get a caricature drawn or have a tarot reading. The market opens daily from 10am until late.