Travel & Hotspots
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING IN LONDON
London, I can't get enough of it. And especially during this ‘most wonderful time of the year’, there is no better place in Europe to do your shopping than in London. Every year, the Brits pull out all the stops to make their capital even more beautiful. In November, the lights come on and everyone in the city immerses themselves in the Christmas spirit. Hyde Park is transformed into a beautiful Christmas park and for traditional Christmas carols, you should go to the Christmas Singers at Trafalgar Square. And yes, those Christmas gifts certainly don't come by themselves. You do your Christmas shopping here, of course.
1. Harrods
A city trip to London is not complete without a visit to Harrods. A magical atmosphere hangs here in the coming weeks. The Christmas department of this expensive department store is set up as early as August, so it's no surprise that this is the most popular Christmas attraction in England. More than 35,000 customers come daily just for the Christmas department at the largest department store in the city. Be sure to bring a well-filled wallet: when you walk in here, you want everything.
2. Selfridges
Next to Harrods, Selfridges is also the place to be around the holidays. The products at Selfridges are less expensive than those at Harrods, allowing you not only to browse but also to actually buy. Score stylish decorations and tableware here and discover their new personalized service that offers everything from wrapping paper to mini bottles of Moët.
3. Harvey Nichols
This luxury department store in Knightbridge is just a stone's throw from Harrods and is one of its biggest challengers. The festive window display of Harvey Nichols is amazing every year.
‘The most wonderful time of the year’
4. Hamleys
Hamleys is the oldest toy store in the world and one of the world's most famous toy retailers. The Christmas window display of Hamleys in London is worth a visit, just like the seven-story store itself. You can’t think of anything too crazy that Hamleys doesn’t have.
5. Fortnum & Mason
In this 307-year-old department store, you can indulge as a decadent foodie. Just drop me here and pick me up after three hours. I love this store, especially during the holidays. From the most exclusive teas to special cookies in the most kitschy tins. Don't forget to personalize your Christmas gift before you head out the door.
6. Charlotte Tilbury
For the best festive makeup, visit one of Charlotte Tilbury's boutiques. Besides her role as a makeup artist for stars like Rihanna and Jennifer Lopez, Charlotte has her own line of makeup and skincare. From dreamy smoky eyes to the most beautiful lipsticks, perfectly covering foundations, and the famous ‘Magic Cream’: Charlotte Tilbury is the makeup brand of the moment.
7. Victoria’s Secret
Because yes, a nice red set should not be missing on Christmas Eve.
Not in the mood for your in-laws this year? Boxing Day, known in England as the day when all the big sales start across the country, is the day after Christmas. Shopping in London on Boxing Day, I can think of worse obligations.
