One of the oldest markets in London is Covent Garden. Covent Garden or Convent Garden as it was originally known dates back to Roman times. Covent Garden was famous for trading fruit, vegetables and flowers, that was until the market was relocated in 1974. It was not until 1980 that Covent Garaden became the retail venue it is today.



Another famous market in London is that of Camden Market. The market opened in the 1970's, with stalls selling arts and crafts as well clothing (new and vintage). Camden Market is extremely popular today attracting 100,000 visitors each weekend making it the fourth most popular place to visit in London.

The Kings Road in chelsea has been synonymous with fashion and its trends since the swinging sixties. In the 1970's the Kings Road was where the 'punk generation' were commonly seen. The punks adopted the Union Jack into their distinctive way of dressing, and since then this symbol has been used many times in fashion designs. The Kings Road is still a trendy place to shop for clothing with some exclusive boutiques.

Sloane Street is usually associated with high class fashion. This was thanks to the 'Sloane Rangers' in the 1990's, the young, upwardly mobile crowd who shopped along Sloane Street (this is where their name came from). Some of the worlds most famous designers and brands have shops along Sloane Street today. Sloane Street begins in the north of London in Knightsbridge and ends in the south at Sloane Square.

Knightsbridge is home to one of the worlds largest department stores. The department store is 'Harrods' which has over 300 different departments. If London where you decide you want to do your Christmas Shopping this year, then make the effort and go to Harrods. Every year at this time the store becomes a 'winter wonderland', and even if you don't do any shopping, it is still worth a visit just to see the store and its spectacular decorations.

The next largest department store in London is 'Selfridges'. Harry Gordon Selfridge (founder) managed to earn enough funds to open the London Store by working his way up the company ladder at Marshall Field & Company in Chicago, USA.

London offers shopping for everyone whether one is looking for a bargain or the more luxurious high class items. For an extra special shopping experience then come to London at Christmas time.