10 Best Department Stores In London, England

department stores in london
Andrew
Andrew 
Published
| 5 min read

You probably know London as England’s capital, a financial hub and a city steeped in history. Perhaps you know this city because of the royal family, most notably Queen Elizabeth and her celebrity-class offspring. Or maybe London springs to mind when I mention attractions like River Thames, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace or Big Ben. Whatever the case, it’s unanimous that this destination is one of the most visited in the world, with millions of tourists flocking to experience the quintessentially sophisticated British vibe. Undoubtedly, such an iconic city plays host to numerous shopping spots, ranging from classy and high-cost outlets to budget stores. It goes without saying that a trip to London should end with a bit of shopping, an opportunity to collect souvenirs and memoirs of your time here. To help you find the best places to shop, we’ve compiled a list of the best department stores in London, UK. Scroll down to find out more.

1. Selfridges


Regarded as one of the best department stores in the world, Selfridges is an iconic landmark in London and a luxury shopping center for both premium and affordable brands. This Oxford Street behemoth boasts a huge variety of stores including a sprawling shoe gallery, a high-glam beauty hall, restaurants, Cowshed spa and even an in-store psychic. With custom-tailored in-store installations and fun events such as The Body Studio and the Shakespeare reFashioned Theatre, no single visit to Selfridges is ever the same. If exploring the store’s unequalled collection of brands leaves you feeling worn out, you can also enjoy the six floors of amazing dining choices, ideal for a sophisticated dinner or a relaxing coffee.

Selfridges

Address: Selfridges & Co 400 Oxford Street London W1A 1AB

Website: Selfridges

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 10pm; Sat: 9:30am - 9pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

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2. Marks & Spencer


Established in 1884, Marks and Spencer is one of the UK’s biggest and most-loved retailers. This department store offers an ever-changing range of products, from drinks to clothes and homeware. Whatever you are looking for, Marks and Spencer is known for providing high-quality goods with an exceptional level of service. If you are more into fashion, women can spoil themselves with the endless collection of clothes from staple jeans to occasion dresses and the latest on-trend designs. Given the fact that Marks and Spencer have more than 800 stores nationwide and an online platform just a click away, there are plenty of shopping opportunities.

Marks & Spencer

Address: Waterside House, 35 North Wharf Road, London W21NW UK

Website: Marks & Spencer

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 8pm; Sat: 9:30am - 6pm; 12pm - 6pm

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3. Fenwick


Founded in 1891, Fenwick has grown to be one of the most loved department stores in London. It boasts five floors of coveted labels, fabulous frocks and eternally stylish accessories in one of London’s most fashionable streets. Among the inspiring selection of niche brands, you will find designer clothes such as LKBennett, Orla Kiely, Max Mara and jeanswear. Apart from clothes, you will also love their selection of luxury scarfs, leather bags, knitwear, lingerie and beauty products from the extensive perfume and beauty selections. There are also restaurants and spa services that will satisfy your every whim. Fenwick is an attractive department store bursting fashion with head-turning outfits.

Fenwick

Address: Fenwick of Bond Street 63 New Bond Street London, W1S 1RQ

Website: Fenwick

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm

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4. Debenhams

Sutton, Surrey, London St Nicholas Centre - Debenhams
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user A P Monblat used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Ever since it was founded in the 18th century, Debenhams has managed to maintain its reputation as one of the major British multinational retailers that operates using a department store format in Ireland, United Kingdom and Denmark, with a franchise in other countries. With the aim of making shopping confidence-boosting and social to all of its customers, Debenhams focuses on giving all its customers a unique and exclusive mix of international brands, local brands and concessions. Come along with your friends and family and browse through the special offers that feature shoes, clothing, home accessories and even designer brands. Whenever you visit Debenhams, you are guaranteed to find amazing deals.

Debenhams

Address: Regent’s Place, 10 Brock St, London NW1 3FG, United Kingdom

Website: Debenhams

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 8am - 8pm

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London Tour Guide

Robert Woolf

Robert Woolf

I am a London tour guide and my tours include talking about people who have shaped the city plus the many connected places such as Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the commercial centre of the city: the City of London, and London’s world class museums and galleries. I have been guiding for 12 years. I am a licenced London Blue Badge Tour Guide, a City of London Guide, and a Westminster Guide. The reviews I receive from clients speak of their enjoyment from the local knowledge and the humour I bring to my tours. Born within sight of Hampton Court Palace, I am a Londoner and apart from 2 years in the Middle East, I have worked in this capital city all my business and tour guiding careers. I have travelled widely and I appreciate what appeals to visitors coming to London. I can tailor my tours to interest children. I guide couples, families and larger tour groups. I particularly enjoy visits to Westminster Abbey, where I also volunteer guiding students and children through its wonderful interior – on my tours you will hear about monarchs, why scientists and poets are remembered, the architecture and religious history. The Abbey is the story of England. Come on an engaging and fun tour with me. There is so much to show you !

Tours by Robert

5. Harvey Nichols


Founded in 1831, Harvey Nichols is a luxury department store internationally known for its fashion and beauty merchandise, award-winning restaurants, and premium food and wine all offered both online and in-store. All Harvey Nichols stores in the UK have luxury food markets, restaurants and Brasseries. Exclusive and established labels can be found alongside accessible everyday collections, hence ensuring that the customers receive the must-have items for all their wardrobe. Pay a visit with your family or friends and create wonderful memories as you browse through all that Harvey Nichols has to offer.

Harvey Nichols

Address: 109-125, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, London SW1X 7RJ, United Kingdom

Website: Harvey Nichols

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

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6. Liberty


Liberty London is an upscale department store that focuses mainly on a full range of designer clothing, sumptuous beauty products luxury fabrics and stylish homewares. Ever since it was founded in 1875 by Arthur Lasenby Liberty, the retail landmark has grown to become an international brand that’s famous for its tana lawn fabrics and luxury leather goods. Right from the exterior of this Tudor-inspired upscale department store to the inside, walking around Liberty will make you feel as if you are exploring someone’s grand home. While you are here, make sure you pay a visit to the second-floor café, known to be the only spot offering a bite and a cuppa in Liberty

Liberty London

Address: Regent St, Soho, London W1B 5AH, United Kingdom

Website: Liberty London

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

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7. John Lewis & Partners St Pancras International

John Lewis store
Source: Pexels

The leading retailer in the UK, John Lewis & Partners first opened its doors London’s Oxford Street in 1864. John Lewis & Partners is strategically situated located on the lowest level of St Pancras International and it features an extensive edited selection of beauty products, homeware, electronics, gifts and fashion accessories. The store also has an ever-growing online store that features extra offers like free delivery. The department store is focused on only delivering the best values of expertise, trust and customer service to all of its customers worldwide. Stop by with your friends and family and enjoy the ultimate shopping experience.

John Lewis & Partners St Pancras International

Address: 8A, St Pancras International, Euston Rd, London N1C 4QL, United Kingdom

Website: John Lewis & Partners St Pancras International

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7:30am - 9pm; Sun: 9am - 7pm

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8. Fortnum & Mason

department stores in london | fortnum & mason
Source: instagram

An iconic store located at the heart of London since 1707, Fortnum & Mason, an upmarket department store, has been famous for servicing the needs of travelers and explorers. The department store is famously known as the ultimate destination for a unique shopping experience. Visitors from around the world have flocked to Fortnum’s in search of the thrill one gets from browsing through their extensive list of products which includes elegant wines and spirits, expertly packed, famous teas and fresh coffee seeds. If it is your first time in town, Fortnum & Mason has to be your first stop. The store also enjoys an online presence that offers free delivery of products.

Fortnum & Mason

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

Website: Fortnum & Mason

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm: Sun: 12pm - 6pm

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9. Harrods

Harrods (London)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user user: Sokkk y used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London Harrods is a department store owned by the state of Qatar via the Qatar Investment Authority. The store has 330 departments situated on its seven floors and all dedicated to providing the finest products in fashion, food, technology and homeware to its customers. When done with shopping, shoppers can also enjoy dining in one of the 27 dining options including a steakhouse, a pizzeria, an oyster bar and a contemporary Chinese restaurant. The store also offers a wide range of customer services such as Tax Rewards, the Gift Concierge, By Appointment Personal Shopping and Urban Retreat spa.

Harrods

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

Website: Harrods

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

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10. Peter Jones & Partners


Another department store owned by John Lewis and partners, Peter Jones & Partners is a well-known department store located on Sloane Square. The store features seven floors all offering unrivaled quality and value. You will love all that the store has to offer including stunning homeware, exclusively designed souvenirs in the Gift shop and the latest technology in digital cameras, MP3 players and gaming consoles. When you are done with shopping, Peter Jones department store also has a cafeteria-style restaurant on the sixth floor which is a wonderful oasis of calm in the hustle and bustle. Stop by and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Peter Jones & Partners

Address: Sloane Square, Chelsea, London SW1W 8EL, United Kingdom

Website: Peter Jones & Partners

Opening hours: Mon - Tue & Thu - Sat: 9:30am - 7pm; Wed: 9:30am - 8pm; Sun: 11:30am - 6pm

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Premium shopping in London

There’s no argument that London is one of the most expensive cities to live in. And the shopping experience, though premium, can be a bit steep. However, if you’re in this fascinating city, spare a few pounds to buy at least one item that’ll remind you of your experience in the UK. There are options for those with more cash to spare but also, thrift stores that attract travelers on a budget. Whichever category you fall, our recommendations above might be of help.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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