Welcome to the ultimate guide to shopping in and around Piccadilly Circus! Get ready to explore a vibrant mix of shops, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. We’ll break down the best shopping areas, highlight unique stores, and even give you tips on maximizing your shopping experience.
Let’s start our shopping adventure!
Piccadilly Circus: A Shopping Gateway
Don’t expect a plethora of shops directly on Piccadilly Circus, but think of it as a gateway to some of London’s most renowned shopping areas. While the square itself may lack a diverse selection, surrounding streets beckon with a variety of options for every taste and budget.
Explore the Streets Around Piccadilly Circus
Prepare to be surprised by the hidden treasures just a short walk away from the bustling square.
Coventry Street: This bustling street connects Piccadilly Circus to Leicester Square. It boasts the Trocadero shopping complex (more on that later!), a collection of independent souvenir shops offering those quintessential London souvenirs like Union Jack hats and Big Ben mugs, and a great spot to snag discount theatre tickets.
Regent Street: This iconic street is renowned for its elite shopping scene. Here, you’ll find department stores and flagship stores from high street giants.
Lower Regent Street: A short stroll from Piccadilly Circus to the regal Pall Mall, Lower Regent Street offers a more curated selection. Think upscale clothing and jewellery boutiques, a few souvenir shops, and even a unique collection of Japanese specialty stores.
Piccadilly: Home to two London icons, Fortnum & Mason (a department store unlike any other) and Europe’s largest bookshop, Piccadilly exudes an air of sophistication. This street is lined with high-end clothing, book, and jewellery stores, offering a luxurious shopping experience. Plus, its proximity to Regent Street allows you to seamlessly hop between the two.
Shopping Centres Near Piccadilly Circus
While Piccadilly Circus itself doesn’t have a traditional shopping center, you’ll find some excellent options within easy walking distance.
The Trocadero: This entertainment complex is practically next door to Piccadilly Circus. Inside, you’ll discover a shopping mall packed with souvenir shops, jewellery boutiques, clothing stores, and even toy stores.
Fortnum & Mason: More than just a department store, Fortnum & Mason is a London institution. A short walk from Piccadilly Circus, this historic food hall is a foodie’s paradise. Savor delicious treats for picnics, unique gifts, and their famous specialty teas and afternoon tea.
Lilywhites: Directly on Piccadilly Circus, this historic sports department store is a haven for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for trendy sneakers or specialist equipment, Lilywhites is a true London landmark.
Waterstones on Piccadilly: Just a two-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus, Waterstones is Europe’s largest bookstore and a literary lover’s dream come true. Spread across eight floors, it offers a vast selection of books, a city-view bar, a cozy cafe, and even a gift shop.
Explore Beyond Piccadilly Circus
Piccadilly Circus is the heart of London, surrounded by some of the city’s best shopping districts. Venture beyond the square to discover a world of shopping possibilities.
Regent Street: Just a minute’s walk from the tube station, Regent Street caters to every taste. You’ll find high street favorites like Zara, Mango, and H&M, iconic department stores including Hamleys, and even high-end boutiques like Barbour, Guess, and Michael Kors.
Soho: Five minutes from Piccadilly Circus, Soho offers a more alternative and quirky shopping experience. This vibrant district is home to independent boutiques and designers, showcasing unique and creative finds.
Covent Garden: A ten-minute walk from Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden is a shopping haven for everyone. From the quirky shops of Seven Dials to the high street offerings near the tube station and the traditional charm of Covent Garden Market, you’ll find a treasure trove of shopping experiences.
Piccadilly Circus: Your Shopping Starting Point
Piccadilly Circus is the perfect launching pad for a shopping adventure in London. While the square itself might not offer the most extensive selection, its proximity to some of the city’s most renowned shopping districts makes it a prime location for a day of retail therapy.
Remember to do your research and plan your shopping spree. After all, London’s shopping scene is vast and exciting!
