Marylebone is a charming and vibrant district in London, known for its relaxed shopping experience and diverse selection of stores. It’s the perfect place to wander leisurely from boutique to bookshop, soaking up the unique atmosphere.
A Stroll Through Chic Boutiques
Marylebone’s High Street is a treasure trove of independent shops and renowned brands. Diptyque, the Parisian favorite, entices you with its fragrant candles and perfumes, while The Conran Shop showcases contemporary home design. For book lovers, the enchanting Daunt Books awaits with its ornately decorated window and dark wooden balconies.
Independent Spirit
Trunk Clothiers caters to the stylish gentleman with contemporary labels, while Mouki Mou offers cool and understated clothing, accessories, and gifts. Prism is the go-to spot for stylish glasses and sunglasses, and Cadenhead’s is a haven for whisky enthusiasts. Conde Nast Traveller even voted Marylebone London’s coolest street, highlighting its perfect blend of heritage and modern flair.
From High Street to Market Wonders
Beyond the High Street
Marylebone’s wide boulevard boasts a range of popular stores, including AllSaints, Burberry, and Tommy Hilfiger. The magnificent Liberty London department store, housed in a 1920s Tudor-revival building, is a must-visit. Hamleys, the iconic toy store, offers a wonderland of floor-upon-floor of toys.
A Journey Through History
From the rear entrance of The Landmark hotel, an ornate wrought-iron glass-covered walkway leads you directly to Marylebone Station, providing convenient access to Bicester Village, a luxury outlet village featuring brands like Missoni, Sandro, and Gucci at discounted prices.
A World of Markets
Portobello Road: A Treasure Trove
Portobello Road Market is a haven for antique lovers. This vibrant market, with its candy-colored houses, transforms into the world’s largest antiques market on Saturdays. You’ll find everything from silverware and jewelry to Victorian cameras and vintage luggage. The market is open Monday to Saturday, but Saturday is the main day for antiques, with trading starting early in the morning.
Borough Market: A Foodie’s Delight
Borough Market is a paradise for food enthusiasts. This bustling market features stalls overflowing with fresh produce from all over the UK and beyond. Many stallholders are the producers themselves, sharing their knowledge and passion for their products. From cheese and cakes to chocolates, meat, fish, spices, oils, and antipasti, Borough Market offers a delicious symphony of flavors. The surrounding area boasts a fantastic range of restaurants, making it a perfect destination for a day of culinary exploration. The market is open Monday to Saturday, with limited market days on Mondays and Tuesdays. During December, it’s open seven days a week.
Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences
Grays Antique Market: A Journey Through Time
Grays Antique Market, housed in a grand terracotta building, is home to 200 antique dealers selling all kinds of objects dating back to 40BC. A truly unique experience awaits in the basement, where the underground Tyburn River flows through a channel, adding an unexpected touch of history to this vibrant marketplace. This eccentric sight is even more intriguing with the large goldfish meandering through the channel. Grays is open Monday to Friday, with many dealers also open on Saturdays.
Spitalfields: A Blend of Old and New
Spitalfields Market offers a unique blend of old and new under its glass canopy. Enjoy a vibrant mix of clothing, gifts, toys, and vintage treasures, all protected from the elements. Next door, Old Spitalfields Market provides a diverse experience depending on the day of the week, offering everything from antiques and art to vintage hats, silk scarves, and collectible vinyl. This market is also a great place for lunch, with restaurants like Nuno Mendes’ Taberna do Mercado and Wright Brothers oyster bar. Spitalfields Market is open daily, while Old Spitalfields Market is open Thursday to Sunday.
London’s Marylebone offers a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift, a vintage treasure, or a delicious meal, Marylebone is a vibrant and exciting destination that promises something for everyone.
