Started Christmas shopping yet? Thought not. The good news is that all retailers are vying for our attention so there are plenty of bargains.
London comes alive at Christmas, with the high streets bulging with shoppers searching for that perfect gift. Here’s our guide so you can plan your Christmas assault with military precision.
Oxford street
You’ll find department stores such as Selfridges, John Lewis and Debenhams. There’s also HMV – where between 5pm and 6.30pm today (Mon), A-Team actor Sharlto Copley will be signing copies of his new DVD – as well as a range of high street stores and souvenir shops.
oxfordstreet.co.uk
Tube: Oxford Circus
Regent street
Drool over the iPad at the Apple store, then act like a big kid in Hamleys toy store. There are high-end brands here, as well as a high street. Visit Liberty for unique foodie gifts and a craft exhibition.
regentstreetonline.com
Tube: Oxford Circus
Bond street
Got money to burn? A labels’ junkie? Here you’ll find the likes of Donna Karan New York or D&G designs. There’s also Victorinox, makers of the Swiss Army knife, selling gadgets galore.
bondstreetassociation.com
Tube: Bond St
Belgravia
Pimllico Road and the newly refurbished Elizabeth Street will become a winter wonderland on Dec 5 and there’ll be free rickshaws so you don’t have to carry your bags. There are a lot of boutiques here, but you can find stocking fillers that won’t break the bank.
grosvenorlondon.com
Tube: Sloane Square
Harrods
Put a couple of hours aside to wander around Harrods – it’s spread out over 1.8ha so you’ll need that long. But you will find everything and anything across it’s seven floors. And it’s not all pricey – you’ll have no problem digging out a gift for under a tenner. Late night shopping Dec 10-23.
» See harrods.com
Knightsbridge
Covent garden
There’s a bumper festive night on December 2, where shoppers will get 20 per cent off from some stores. You’ll also be entertained with performances from Priscilla Queen Of The Desert, The Musical in South Wells at 6pm and 7.40pm.
coventgardenlondon.uk.com
Tube: Covent Garden
Seven dials
Just away from the mayhem of Covent Garden is this dial-like shopping area with a village vibe. Head to Monmouth Street for girlie boutiques such as Fif Wilson or for jewellery and accessory specialist Laura Lee. Neal Street offers chains such as Miss Sixty and Diesel.
sevendials.co.uk
Tube: Covent Garden
Westfield
The centre has 275 shops from fashion labels and art to high street favourites and department stores. And it kicked off Christmas in style with Rihanna switching on the festive lights. Chocoholics should head here between Dec 7-12 when you can take part in the Cadbury Wishes Workshop. There’s also an indoor ice rink.
uk.westfield.com
Tube: Shepherd’s Bush
Canary Wharf
With five malls, Canary Wharf has become a shopping destination in its own right. There will be carols on Dec 14. Wander around more than 200 shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants.
mycanarywharf.com
Tube: Canary Wharf
Upper street N1
Take advantage of a 20 per cent discount on Dec 2 until 8pm. Retailers include fashion boutiques, quirky independents and a toy shop.
Tube: Angel
Fed up with high street brands? If you’re looking for something really special this year, head to a designer show …
Shoreditch
To pick up tomorrow’s products today, head to the East London Design Show. Hundreds of independent product, interior and jewellery designers will display their wares under one roof. You’ll be able to choose from new launches, fashion, toys and homeware. It’s running from Dec 3-5 with late-night shopping on the Friday until 8pm.
eastlondondesignshow.co.uk
Tube: Liverpool St
National Theatre
The largest and oldest contemporary jewellery exhibition – Dazzle – is at the National Theatre’s Olivier foyer. A gorgeously glittering bazaar of one-off pieces, covering every conceivable style, price and material; all for sale and ready to take away immediately.It’s a great place to spot unique gifts from more than 80 designers – from big names to new talent. Until Jan 8. Free.
dazzle-exhibitions.com
Tube: Waterloo
– Carol Driver
