London doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to affordable prices, but there are plenty of cheap shops if you know where to look. The city offers everything from department stores to chains and street markets for your shopping enjoyment.
The classic department stores
For a true London experience, the city has a couple of must-see spots that you must visit to shop for bargains while mingling with the locals.
- Harrods: It may be London’s most famous luxury shopping center, but that shouldn’t deter you from visiting it. Instead, go straight to the souvenir section, where you can grab a cheap Harrods brand item as a souvenir of the trip. The sales sections are also worth checking out.
- Selfridges – More affordable than Harrods, Selfridges remains a high-end option with the opportunity to find good value items. This department store offers everything from fashion to electronics and jewelry to books. The world’s largest denim department is worth catching, with over 11,000 pairs of jeans for sale.
Popular chains
Pick a capital city anywhere in the world and it will likely be filled with the same stores: H&M, Mango, Zara, and Topshop. You will find them on most of the main shopping streets in the city, such as Oxford Street, and they are generally grouped together, which works well if you want to treat yourself to something new.
When it comes to affordable fashion in the city, these are a great option if you just want to spend a little money on a new t-shirt. Think Zara for the prettiest clothes, and H&M for the cheapest.
At stores like Primark, you’ll find incredibly cheap clothes, but don’t expect them to last long.
Don’t forget Carnaby Street
A cool, pedestrian-only spot near Oxford Street is Carnaby Street. Shops and cafes line the wide aisles, and you can buy anything from Diesel jeans to vintage hippie clothing. The street is full of opportunities like Sacred, a sweet little café that is a good place to rest your shopping-weary feet while sipping a cup of cardamom-flavored Thai coffee and condensed milk.
Check out the street markets on a sunny day
London’s street markets are some of the best, so if you’re craving a bit of retail therapy and it’s not raining, explore some of the local bargain hunter favorites.
- Portobello Market – This is one of the most famous markets in London. Go here to shop for antiques, there are over 1,000 vendors as well as cheap street food and clothing. If you like antiques and collectibles, this is the place to be.
- Covert Garden Market – One of the most popular areas in London also has a fun market to wander around. You’ll find jewelry, artwork, souvenirs, a farmer’s market, and food.
- Borough Market: If you’re looking for a bargain on street food, check out the hundreds of food stalls here, whether you’re looking for gooseberry mint gooseberries or a steaming plate of chicken curry for lunch.
- Brixton Village – This is a fine, less crowded spot for delicious meals from around the world. The third Saturday of every month they have a retro and vintage market with clothes.
- Petticoat Lane Market – Clothes and crowds abound at this market, haggle with the leather jackets this street market is known for.
This article has been edited and updated by Lauren Juliff.
