Where to Find the Most Famous Shops in London

Want to follow in the footsteps of celebrities, browse historic hangouts or explore the newest flagship stores? Central London is the place to be.

As iconic shopping destinations go, Regent Street and nearby St James’s are up there with the best of them. Deep in the heart of London’s shopping district, you’ll find all kinds of noteworthy retail residents, spanning from centuries-old family businesses to luxury department stores.

Here’s where to make the most of London’s shopping scene and tick off a few must-see places along the way.

Regent Street

SKIMS

Given its roots in celebrity hotspot Calabasas, Kim Kardashian’s global shapewear brand was always destined for fame. SKIMS’ European flagship store just recently opened at 245-247 Regent Street, bringing with it a big-name guest list to officially put the Hollywood stamp on London’s iconic shopping destination. Endorsed by the likes of Charli XCX, Jude Bellingham, Rosalía and more, who knows which stars you could be rubbing shoulders with on your next visit…

Apple

A more modern arrival to Regent Street, the “Apple Store” became the first of its kind in Europe – and the largest in the world – when it opened in 2004. The building that Apple calls home also has a colourful history, namely being the former site of famous 19th-century glassmakers Salviati. If you look closely at its façade, you’ll still see mosaic designs to this day. Pop in for the latest releases, workshops and tech support.

Hamleys

A haven for generations of kids, Hamleys has been synonymous with Regent Street since it opened in 1881, quickly becoming the largest toy shop in the world. Hamleys was granted a Royal Warrant by both Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth II, and even survived being hit five times by bombs during The Blitz. Today, its seven floors of toys and games make it a must-visit for children of all ages.

Liberty London

Originally founded at 218a Regent Street in 1875, Liberty London now stands within its iconic Tudor Revival style building on Great Marlborough Street that was constructed from the timbers of battleships. Oscar Wilde was among its most devoted customers, and it continues to draw the crowds with its cutting-edge fashion, homeware and iconic prints. To this day, the store is often frequented by famous faces, so your next shopping trip may well feature a cameo from someone you recognise.

Cakes & Bubbles

Making its home within the iconic Hotel Café Royal is one of the most famous cake shops in London. Cakes & Bubbles is the brainchild of famed pastry chef Albert Adrià, occupying a stretch of Regent Street with some significant history. The building itself dates back to 1865 when it was established as a restaurant and meeting place, but since then it has witnessed famous exchanges, welcomed iconic patrons and hosted glitzy afterparties. See why it’s our favourite dessert spot?

SpudBros

One of the newest additions to the Regent Street foodie roster, SpudBros can chart their history back to 1955, when the family business opened its first hot potato cart in Preston. Since then, the brand have grown exponentially and taken social media by storm, with over 5 million followers on TikTok, and famous names like Will Smith and Mr Beast amongst their famous fans. The perfect cosy fare for the autumn months, SpudBros have brought the ‘greatest spuds on earth’ to Princes Street, just off Regent Street. What’s a must have on your jacket potato?

St James's

Fortnum & Mason

London’s oldest department store, Fortnum & Mason, was founded in 1707 as a grocery shop. By 1738 it had invented a British classic: the Scotch egg, and its famous hampers have since sustained soldiers on the front line and explorers on Mount Everest. Today, you can enjoy a quintessential afternoon tea in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon and explore its food hall for all sorts of tasty treats.

Lock & Co.

The oldest hat shop in the world (and reputedly the oldest shop in London), Lock & Co. is still run by the family who founded the company way back in 1676. Notable customers have included none other than Lord Nelson and the 1st Duke of Wellington, and it is renowned for inventing the bowler hat (which they call the Coke hat) in 1849. You can still buy the classic design alongside Panamas, trilbies and flat caps.

Famous flagships

Regent Street is home to a host of UK flagships for some of the world’s top brands. Seek out stylish activewear at Gymshark and ON running. Browse luxury fashion houses like Tommy Hilfiger, Tory Burch, Coach and Mulberry for the latest trends. Many flagships also have a range of experiences to enjoy, from bespoke tailoring and customisation to classes and events.

Discover more shopping tips with our sustainable shopping guide or learn more about the history of Regent Street with this 200-year timeline.