London’s Marylebone High Street is a charming blend of history and contemporary style. It’s a place where you can leisurely stroll from boutique to bookshop, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.
Dive into a world of scents and sophistication at Diptyque, the Parisian favorite known for its beautifully fragranced candles and eau de toilette. Looking for contemporary home design? The Conran Shop will be your haven. And for a truly enchanting experience, Daunt Books will captivate you with its ornately decorated window and dark wooden balconies.
A Victorian street filled with independent shops, Marylebone offers a unique shopping experience. Trunk Clothiers, a haven for men’s fashion, boasts a curated selection of contemporary labels. Mouki Mou is the place for cool and understated clothes, accessories, and gifts, while Prism caters to the style-conscious with its stylish glasses and sunglasses. For the whisky enthusiast, Cadenhead’s is a must-visit. This street, recognized as “London’s coolest” by Condé Nast Traveller, seamlessly blends its rich heritage with a modern edge.
Beyond Marylebone: A World of Shopping Adventures
Marylebone’s allure extends beyond its quaint high street. The iconic Liberty London department store, housed in a stunning 1920s Tudor-revival building, is a must-see. Its timber frame, constructed from two ships, is a testament to its history.
For the child within, Hamleys is a wonderland of toys, stretching over multiple floors. And if you’re looking for luxury brands at discounted prices, head to Bicester Village, accessible from Marylebone Station. This high-end retail outlet village is home to coveted names like Missoni, Sandro, and Gucci.
Weekend Delights: Markets and More
Saturdays in Marylebone are all about Portobello Market, a haven for antique enthusiasts. This vibrant market, overflowing with stalls selling everything from silverware and jewelry to Victorian cameras and vintage luggage, is the world’s largest antiques market. On weekdays, Portobello Market offers a diverse range of goods, but Saturday is the day to immerse yourself in its antique charm.
For a culinary adventure, head to Borough Market. This food lover’s paradise boasts a vast selection of fresh produce from across the UK and beyond. Many stallholders are the producers themselves, offering insights into the origins of their goods. From cheeses and cakes to chocolates, meat, fish, spices, oils, and antipasti, Borough Market has something for everyone.
London’s Hidden Gems: Grays Antique Market and Spitalfields Market
Hidden within a grand terracotta building, Grays Antique Market offers a treasure trove of antiques, spanning from 40 BC to the 20th century. This unique market also boasts an underground river, the Tyburn, which flows through a channel in the basement.
Spitalfields Market, located under a glass canopy, offers a delightful shopping experience, rain or shine. From clothing and gifts to toys and vintage treasures, this market has something for everyone. Next door, Old Spitalfields Market, offers a diverse selection of antiques, art, vintage hats, silk scarves, and collectable vinyl.
Both markets are great for lunch, with Spitalfields featuring restaurants like Nuno Mendes’ Taberna do Mercado and Wright Brothers oyster bar.
