The UK is fantastic for its shops, from its famous high street stores to world renowned designer shops and fantastic shopping centres and areas where you can spend the entire day. So, if you’re visiting the UK and want to learn about the shopping hotspots, from a shopping centre Leeds based through to the iconic shopping streets of London. Whether you’re ready to splash the cash or you’re looking forward to a good window shop, we’ve got you covered.
London
First up we have the most obvious choice, which is London. The entire city is packed full of everything from the iconic Oxford Street through to department stores, high street shops, independent boutique, vintage quarters, indoor and outdoor market, world leading brands and so much more. You could spend so much time in London and still struggle to see everything it has to offer!
If you want quintessentially British experiences, we’d recommend going to the department stores like Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges, as they have so many concessions that will give you a taste of different British and global brands. However, we’d definitely recommend that you also spend some time at the markets and independent boutiques, as this is where you’ll really see the unique essence of British style and fashion.
Manchester
Next up we have Manchester, often considered as the London of the North, which also provides exceptional shopping experiences. In the very city centre you have the Arndale Centre, which has all of the classic British highstreet shops, then around the area you also have St Anne’s Square which is lined with more boutique style shops, then just across from there you have Cathedral Street with more luxury options, including Selfridges. This is a great way to spend the afternoon and there’s plenty of delicious choices for lunch too.
If you’re a fan of vintage clothing, definitely head over to the Northern Quarter, as there are lots of vintage shops and independent boutiques that are so much fun to look around. It’s also packed full of independent bars, cafes and restaurants, so you have plenty of options to refresh. Make sure you take a look at Affleck’s Palace too, an emporium of small indie brands that is absolutely iconic.
You’re also only an hour away from Cheshire Oaks, a designer outlet where you can get fantastic deals on so many UK based brands as well as global brands. Cheshire is also a stunning place, so is worth exploring, including Trentham Gardens which isn’t far away.
Leeds
Last but not least, we have Leeds. Leeds is another great city in the North of England and is home to some fantastic shopping centres. You’ve got Trinity Leeds which is more of your highstreet brands, then you also have the impeccable Victoria Leeds, a stunning shopping complex in the Victorian Quarter made up of beautiful shopping arcades. This is home to more luxury brands, as well as delicious restaurants Leeds and bars. The mosaic floors, stained glass roofs and events make this an iconic shopping centre and one well worth visiting if you’re in the area.
