Whether you’re shopping for something in particular, looking for gift inspiration, or simply want to have a good browse around your favourite stores, then going shopping is sure to beat online shopping each and every time. The UK is home to some of the world’s most famous stores, as well as the best shopping centres and high streets.
No matter if you are looking for high street favourites, luxury designer labels, vintage pieces or one-off unique pieces, the UK has it all. But, from Glasgow to London, the UK is home to so many amazing shopping destinations, so how exactly do you know where to go and shop til you drop? Let’s take a look at 5 of the best places to go shopping in the UK.
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London
No matter what you’re looking for, London has everything you could ever want. From street markets to high-end designer boutiques, there is no shortage of shopping destinations across London. If you’re into unique or antique pieces, then a visit to Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is a must for those looking for a diverse shopping experience. The market is open every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., other than Sundays.
If you want a Christmas shopping experience like no other, then a wander down Oxford Road and Regent Street should be top of your list. With the Christmas lights, bustling atmosphere and shops suitable for all gifts, you’re sure to find something for everyone here!
Bullring, Birmingham
The Bullring is Birmingham’s largest shopping centre, where you’ll find all the high street names under one roof. Named after Birmingham’s bullring market that was first held here in the middle-ages, the Bullring has become a significant shopping centre within the north of the UK and there are plenty of different shops to explore. From wedding shoes and attire to comfy loungewear, or work stationary to luxury toiletries, there’s everything you need and more at the Bullring.
Whether you’re visiting alone or with all the family, you’ll find plenty to do – and there is so much more to do than shopping! With delicious restaurants and fun Treetop Adventure Golf, there’s something for everyone.
Edinburgh
For shopping with a view, a trip to Edinburgh is an absolute must – after all, where else can you shop all your favourite brands with an uninterrupted view of an ancient castle? Edinburgh’s Princes Street has shops which line just one side of the street, leaving the other side free to admire the views of the castle and Old Town.
On the east end of Princes Street, you’ll find the new shopping centre, St James Quarter. This 4-storey shopping centre is home to many brands that are available for high-street shopping in Scotland for the first time such as Stradivarius, & Other Stories and Bershka. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes to enjoy if you find that you’ve worked up an appetite, as well a cinema and aparthotel.
As well as modern high street stores, Edinburgh is also home to many quaint and unique stores, selling everything you could ever need, from antique books to one-of-a-kind souvenirs. For a picturesque shopping experience, head to Victoria Street in the Old Town – perhaps one of Edinburgh’s most photographed locations. Built between 1829 and 1834, the shops on this street are curved and have brightly coloured shopfronts and multi-leveled restaurants and bars, overlooking the street. If you’re a fan of Christmas, then a visit to the Christmas Decoration Store here is recommended!
Leeds
No matter your fashion style, the shopping options in Leeds has something for everyone. Dubbed a “shoppers paradise”, you’re never far from your favourite brands, as well as some of the best boutiques and quirky stores. High street brands and names reign supreme in Leeds, with different shopping centres. However, for a combination of modern and Victorian shopping, a visit to Victoria Leeds is high up on a lot of people’s lists. Named one of the best shopping centres in Leeds, it’s not hard to see why. With a modern centre that looks straight from a sci-fi novel, to the picturesque and quaint Victorian area.
York
York is perhaps one of the most unique shopping experiences in the UK. There are so many different shopping areas that, no matter what you are looking for, you’re guaranteed to find it here. With an intricate web of winding streets, from the boutiques on Shambles – one of Europe’s best-preserved Medieval streets – to designer stores and department stores in the city centre, York is probably home to one of the most memorable shopping experiences in the UK. Should you get hungry or thirsty during your shopping trip, there are plenty of amazing food and drink options – be sure to visit one of the places near the Minster for lunch with a view!
