London’s hidden shopping streets

Lamb’s Conduit Street, London WC1

For some of the best independent stores in London, head to Lamb’s Conduit Street in Bloomsbury. Lined with cosy cafés, interior design shops and fashion boutiques, the street is known for its neighbourhood feel. It is also a secret hotspot for men’s fashion, with J Crew and Oliver Spencer stores a must-visit for those seeking casualwear. For cool new art and interior design, the Darkroom boutique is well worth a visit.

Monmouth Street, London WC2

While Earlham Street is the place to find contemporary menswear in the Seven Dials area, Monmouth Street is the top spot for luxury womenswear and beauty. For original vintage clothing, Pop Boutique and Orion London have some of the best offerings in the capital across both clothing and accessories. Those seeking more modern apparel should head to Orla Kiely and Unconditional, where cutting-edge designs are popular with the fashion elite.

Chiltern Street, London W1

Chiltern Street in the Marylebone area has recently come into the spotlight thanks to Chiltern Firehouse, the hotel owned by André Balazs. Yet even before the hotel was developed, the street could lay claim to being one of London’s hidden shopping gems. The charming red-brick properties here host some of London’s most coveted designers as well as independent boutiques and unique gift shops. It’s an area perfect for picking up a stylish souvenir. Chiltern Street is also home to specialist shops such as prestigious Cire Trudon, while womenswear shops here include Long Tall Sally, which offers made-to-measure pieces.

Berwick Street, London W1

Located in the heart of Soho, Berwick Street is a vibrant and diverse shopping venue lined with vintage stores, bespoke tailors and traditional British pubs. Retro-inspired tailoring from Oliver Spencer and Percival capture the independent spirit of Soho while a wealth of independent record shops pays homage to London’s music scene. Berwick Street is also home to one of the capital’s oldest markets. Enjoy top fresh food and veg, artisanal bread and flowers.

Newburgh Street, London W1

Located just off lively Carnaby Street, Newburgh Street showcases a select range of innovative boutiques and retail concepts. A must-visit for footwear fanatics, it is home to some unique brands. Retro sportswear label Onitsuka Tiger’s Newburgh Street is the sole UK outlet of this Japanese brand of trainers, apparel and accessories and is a true hidden gem. Those seeking other premium footwear should head to Red Wing London and legendary sportswear brand Fred Perry.

Earlham Street, London WC2

For both urban and luxury menswear Earlham Street in the Seven Dials district is a great hidden venue. Home to top menswear brands Farah, Foxhall London, Le Coq Sportif, Peter Werth and Q Men London, the street has become synonymous with eclectic and striking menswear and accessories. With heritage brands and contemporary British labels side by side, it’s close to the hub of Covent Garden and a great place to while away a day.

St James’s Street, London SW1

St James’s Street in Mayfair is full of hidden gems perfect for the discerning gentleman. Home to many prestigious English brands, it offers some of the best luxury shopping in London away from the hub of famous New Bond Street. Along St James’s Street you will find an impressive array of gentlemen’s leisurewear brands. Invest in a traditional British bowler hat at Lock & Co then move on to Truefitt & Hill to stock up on luxury grooming items and take advantage of its prestigious barber services. This September one of London’s most famous chemists, D R Harris & Co, will re-open its flagship on the street.