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Christmas shopping can feel overwhelming, especially if you have a long list of people to buy for. But don’t leave it until the last minute! Our guide is here to help you get your gift shopping done early, so all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy the festive period.
To help you keep your Christmas shopping on track, we recommend making a list of everything you’d like to buy so you can narrow down the shops you need to visit. Then, head out to the best Christmas shops London and the South West have to offer to find gifts your loved ones will appreciate.
Shopping in the capital at Christmas is a magical experience, with festive lights and dazzling window displays adorning the main shopping areas. Whether you’re looking for a themed Christmas shop in London or want to visit the high-street favourites, we’ve narrowed down the top locations here.
Harrods
Photo credit: James Healy via Unsplash
One of London’s best-known luxury department stores, Harrods, is a must-visit location at Christmas. From its spectacular illuminations to the Harrods Christmas Shop, it’s a truly festive experience – even if you’re just browsing for gift inspiration. Head here for Christmas decorations and indulgent gifts, from food and drink to homeware, beauty and fashion.
How to get there: Take the Bakerloo line from London Waterloo to Piccadilly Circus, then change for the Piccadilly line to Knightsbridge, where Harrods is located.
Selfridges
Photo credit: Selfridges
If you’re Christmas shopping on Oxford Street or Regent Street, stop by Selfridges. Another favourite British department store, it’s the go-to place for high-end beauty, fashion, homeware, food and drink. Its Christmas Shop includes luxury advent calendars, festive hampers, Christmas decorations, home fragrances and tableware, so you can treat yourself too!
How to get there: Hop on the Jubilee line from London Waterloo to Bond Street, then walk 7 minutes to Selfridges on Oxford Street.
Covent Garden
Photo credit: Covent Garden
Covent Garden is one of London’s best shopping spots year-round, but it’s transformed into a winter wonderland at Christmas, with festive décor and lights to get you in the holiday spirit. Browse high-street stores, luxury brands and independent boutiques to find gifts for every taste and budget.
How to get there: Take the Northern line from London Waterloo to Leicester Square, then walk 6 minutes to Covent Garden.
Fortnum and Mason Christmas Shop
Photo credit: Fortnum and Mason
The Christmas Shop at Fortnum and Mason opens in July, so you can get a head start on your shopping! Whether you’re looking for decorations, advent calendars or gifts, this real-life Santa’s grotto has you covered. Don’t miss their beloved Christmas hampers filled with the finest festive food and drink – the perfect present for the foodie in your life.
How to get there: Take the Jubilee line from London Waterloo to Green Park, then walk 8 minutes to Fortnum and Mason.
Liberty Christmas Shop
Photo credit: Ponya Jabbarisani via Unsplash
Visit the magical Christmas Shop on the fourth floor of Liberty. From decorations to a curated gift edit, shopping (or browsing) here is sure to get you in the festive mood. Plus, you can explore the rest of the iconic department store to find luxury gifts like designer clothing, jewellery, accessories, beauty and homeware.
How to get there: Take the Bakerloo line from London Waterloo to Oxford Circus, then walk 3 minutes to Liberty, at the corner of Regent Street and Great Marlborough Street.
Outside the capital, there are plenty more Christmas shopping hotspots to explore. From high-street staples to outlet shopping and Christmas markets, discover the best places in the South West to shop for gifts.
Charter Market, Salisbury
For a unique Christmas shop, Salisbury’s historic Charter Market is the ideal location. Alongside the weekly Tuesday and Saturday markets, there will be Sunday Festive Markets taking place throughout the season and a Christmas on the Square pop-up. Find gifts from local, independent vendors, enjoy festive food and drink and soak up the holiday atmosphere as you shop.
How to get there: Charter Market is a 12-minute walk from Salisbury.
Christmashay Village at Princesshay, Exeter
Photo credit Princesshay
Christmashay Village pops up here between 28 November and 22 December 2024, with over 25 local traders selling everything from jewellery to pottery.
How to get there: Princesshay is a 22-minute walk from Exeter St David’s.
Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth
Bargain hunters will love the outlet shopping at Gunwharf Quays, where you can find top high-end and high-street brands for less. It’s the perfect place to go Christmas shopping, as there’s plenty of choice to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for beauty, fashion, home or lifestyle gifts, you’ll find it here! Plus save an extra 10% off outlet prices with SWR rewards. Once you’ve finished shopping, head to one of the restaurants or bars at Gunwharf Quays to recharge.
How to get there: Hop on the 700 Coastliner from Plymouth to Gunwharf Quays – a 5-minute journey.
Ready to plan your festive shopping trip. We have plenty of cheap train tickets, from advance tickets to Group Save. If you want extra flexibility in case plans change, our Sunday Out and Semi-Flex return tickets are the ideal choice. Don’t forget to check your eligibility for Railcards and discounts to save even more on your journey.
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