Christmas Shopping: Where to get that festive feeling

From high-end institutions to charming toy shops, historical spaces to indie boutiques, there are many places where you can revel in that thrilling Christmas atmosphere and nab some great presents, too

John Lewis

John Lewis & Partners holds the Royal Warrant and its flagship Oxford Street store, which spans seven floors, is the ultimate shopper’s paradise. Pick up the latest tech treats, fashion finds, homewares, food and other festive specials, as well as making the most of the Personal Styling services. Book a table at one of the rooftop domes at Willows on the Roof. There is also an in-store Santa’s grotto. Nowhere does Christmas quite like John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com

Liberty

Going on a trip to London without visiting Liberty is like eating a cream tea without the cream – they just go hand in hand. This mock-Tudor-style luxury department store on Great Marlborough Street was founded in 1875 by Arthur Liberty who opened it as a shop selling ornaments, fabric and objets d’art from Japan and the East. Now, it is world-renowned for its haberdashery department and distinctive floral print fabrics. There are also men’s, women’s and children’s fashion as well as beauty, stationary and accessories. Even if you just wander around, it really feels special and particularly at Christmas time. But there are so many charming presents to be found, too. Check out the Christmas shop, with its attached wrapping service. www.libertylondon.com

Harrods

For a truly decadent shopping experience, it has to be Harrods. ‘The world’s leading luxury department store’, located in well-heeled Knightsbridge, has been in operation since 1824. There’s no denying it is ostentatious, but that’s all the more reason to see it for yourself – especially at Christmas when the sets and decorations will be next level (this year, it has been transformed into ‘The Fabulous World of Dior’). The food halls are something to write home about, with smart tiled flooring and marble food stands displaying the finest quality produce. There is also an art gallery, a new interiors department, designer fashion labels and even a Toy Kingdom on the third floor. Kids will go crazy for the intergalactic science lab and bespoke sweets maker. www.harrods.com

Fortnum & Mason

Another London institution, Fortnum & Mason in Mayfair is a historic, prestigious department store that is home to a luxury food hall, hampers, homeware and more. Its famous afternoon tea is not to be missed. There is an air of tradition and sophistication in this store that is unmistakably English. Browse the Christmas hampers and decorations, before perusing the burgeoning food hall – featuring mince pies, chocolate, cheese, meats and wine. www.fortnumandmason.com

Daunt Books

There is nothing quite like the atmosphere of a good bookshop, a place where you can while away the hours browsing literature on pretty much any topic you choose. The initial branch of Daunt Books (there are now several dotted around the city) on Marylebone High Street is an original Edwardian bookshop that is known to be one of the most beautiful in the world, with its oak galleries and skylight windows allowing light to flood in. It focuses on first-hand and travel titles but houses a wide range of books, with some of the classics beautifully bound with bespoke illustrations. It’s the ideal place to pick up the latest bestseller or timeless tale for your loved ones this Christmas. www.dauntbooks.co.uk

Hamleys

From toddlers to teens, London’s largest and oldest toy shop, Hamleys, covers a wide range of present options for kids and a visit with your child is sure to make them burst with excitement. The flagship store on Regent Street offers an incredible seven floors of toys, games and crafts – with live demonstrations of toys and games to boot. Expect everything from soft toys to Playmobil and Lego, to Harry Potter and Star Wars paraphernalia. Santa’s even set himself up here in his special grotto – book your tickets to meet the man himself! www.hamleys.com

Labour & Wait

This lovely shop in Shoreditch (there are three other branches in London) is aesthetically pleasing in every way, from its tasteful exterior to the plethora of sleek objects it sells. Stocking timeless, functional household products from suppliers worldwide, it offers a variety of homewares, books, accessories, clothes and gifts – all are simple and elegant in their design. www.labourandwait.co.uk

The Conran Shop

Founded in 1973 by the late Sir Terence Conran, The Conran Shop leads the way in contemporary design. With spaces in Chelsea, Marylebone and Selfridges it stocks simple, timeless pieces including furniture, lighting and kitchenware. Whether you need a tasteful stocking filler or a generous show-stopper, The Conran Shop has it all. www.conranshop.co.uk

Pump Street Pop-Up

Pump Street, the renowned bakery and chocolatier in Suffolk, will be running its Christmas pop-up once again this year from (15-23 Dec) at 16C Calvert Avenue in Shoreditch. Its range of chocolate will feature charming illustrations from Jesse Bevan Brown, on bars flavoured with Eccles cake, panettone and gingerbread. Pick up some chocolate Santas, mince pies, hot chocolate and if you’re feeling hungry, pains aux chocolate, too. www.pumpstreetchocolate.com

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