Top Rated Shopping in London

Soho is one of the most vibrant neighborhoods of London. Previously home to the adult entertainment industry and a chaotic past, Soho has shed its sordid image to become a popular attraction. It is now the entertainment capital of the city with many popular theaters, clubs, upscale restaurants, bars and a lot more. It also has a variety of shopping destinations. Keep Soho on top of the list when visiting London.

Covent Garden is a historic district that is famous for its street performers, shops, restaurants, bars and theaters. The most well known attraction in the area is the Royal Opera House. Before it became the capital’s premiere destination for entertainment and leisure, Covent Garden served as the largest fruit and vegetable market in England. Currently, the Apple, East Colonnade and Jubilee markets are held in the piazza area. Visitors can browse through antiques, artwork, jewelry and clothing that can be found among the market stalls.

If you're in the city of London, the West End is one of the areas you absolutely must visit. Although known mainly for being home to Theatreland, there are many other aspects to it as well. At the West End, you will find a plethora of dining, shopping and entertainment options that attract locals and tourists alike. If you're looking for a fun day out with family, the Disney Store and Rainforest Cafe would be ideal. For a wild day out with friends, a meal at The Living Room followed by a few hours at the Hippodrome Casino are perfect. As for enthusiastic shoppers, Carnaby Street, with its stylish boutiques, and Jermyn Street, with its many men's tailors, is sure to delight.

Christie's was founded in 1766 and now has 85 offices in 43 countries throughout the world. During this time it has gained a reputation for quality auctions of unique pieces. Every year they have over 600 auctions selling a wide range of fine art, jewelery and other collectibles. While many of the prices are out of range for most of us (some items go for over $80 million), there are some cheaper items and it is well worth visiting just to see it. They also provide talks, exhibitions and specialist art education and degree level courses.

This famous bookstore was founded in 1797 by John Hatchard on Piccadilly, one of the most fashionable streets in London. London's oldest bookstore, Hatchards operates over five floors and handles 100,000 titles or more. An ordering service from both the shop and the web site is available. Every genre from travel and fiction to history and biography is well represented. The legendary book signings are a well-known event and are always well attended. Most popular authors tend to come here to promote their new titles. Margaret Thatcher, Frederick Forsyth, J.K. Rowling and Ruth Rendell have all graced the store in the past.

Lachter, Haste and Kent's successful collaboration dates back to over three decades. Offering made-to-measure garments, it boasts of the much-coveted Royal Warrant bestowed by the Duke of Edinburgh. Located on Sackville Street, this iconic tailor shop also sells elegant gowns stitched with exquisite fabrics like Viyellas, wools and silks. It also offers a line of dapper neckwear, socks, handkerchiefs and dapper shirts made with classic fabrics.