London is known for its great shopping streets and boutiques, from Oxford Street to the King’s Road and Westfield Shopping Centre. But where can you go if you want to get off the beaten track and dodge some of the crowds? There are plenty of hidden gems across the capital that offer a quieter and more quirky experience. Here are some of our favourites.
1. Camden Passage
Minutes from Angel station, the pedestrianised Camden Passage is a prime place to spend a Saturday afternoon. Wander along the cobbled street and browse the many clothing and furniture boutiques or stop in for a coffee or brunch at one of the cafés and restaurants. You’ll also find some market stalls selling anything from vintage clothing to teapots and paintings. Join the queue for an American-style brunch at the Breakfast Club or grab some adorable accessories at Smug.
2. Merton Abbey Mills
A former textile factory in south west London, Merton Abbey Mills sits on the banks of the River Wandle. This is a hidden gem for shoppers, with a bustling craft market, a variety of restaurants and pretty waterside arts and craft shops. There’s also a summer theatre and you can take pottery lessons on the weekends at the pottery wheel. It’s powered by a genuine water wheel. Check out real fossils and fossilised eggs at Charlie’s Rock Shop or pick out some leather accessories at Borowicz de Brito Leather Works.
3. Lower Marsh Street
A few minutes from Waterloo station, Lower Marsh Street is hidden in plain sight just moments from central London. Knitters will find their paradise in I Knit, with supplies, classes and even knitting groups, while fashion lovers will enjoy the vintage finds at What the Butler Wore. Stay at our Central Southwark Travelodge hotel to browse the stores at your leisure.
4. Columbia Road
Best known for its flower market, Columbia Road is also home to out-of-the-ordinary boutiques and cafés. You can buy anything from antiques and gardening equipment to art and vintage clothes in these adorable little wooden-fronted shops. Fans of Roby Ryan can visit his shop, RyanTown, while fashion devotees will love selling or buying designer items at FutureVintage.
5. Brick Lane
Hip Brick Lane is bustling on the weekend. This is the place to go if you want the latest fashions and an upbeat, verging-on-party atmosphere. Head to the Laden Showrooms for a range of unique items from independent fashion designers or wander through the backstreet market stalls for gifts, clothing and vintage items. Book a room at our Liverpool Street Travelodge so you can shop ’til you drop.
