Today, we’re going to take a closer look at the best shopping centres in London, where to find them, and what kind of shops they house beneath their roofs. By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly where to go the next time you’re in London and find yourself in a shopping mood!
Ready to indulge yourself in the best shopping centres that London has to offer? I sure am. So, without further delay, let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
1. Westfield London
Closest Tube station is Shepherd’s Bush (Central line)
Housing more than 350 retailers, Westfield London is an indisputable contender for the best shopping centres in London. Located in White City, west London, in the neighbourhood of Shepherd’s Bush and Kensington, Westfield London is a solid choice for anyone looking to do some serious spending.
While the shopping centre features several high-end retailers, there’s also a considerable presence of everyday flagship stores including Marks & Spencer, Waitrose, and Next. Oh, and how could I almost forget the LEGO Store? Even if you aren’t into LEGO, visiting the store is an experience in and of itself.
Hungry? The more than 90 different options for dining will surely satisfy your hunger. In all frankness, there are so many restaurants to choose from it seems surreal.
2. Westfield Stratford City
Closest Tube station is Stratford (Central and Jubilee lines)
Westfield Stratford is probably the most recognized shopping centre in all of London. This massive shopping centre in east London is a one-stop resolution for anything shopping. Name any brand, and you’ll most likely find it at Westfield Stratford, which houses over 300 retailers of various shapes and sizes.
Furthermore, the shopping centre is close to the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park — making the trip to Stratford City considerably more desirable. The distance is the biggest downside for me though. While you can get from central London to Stratford City in about 40 minutes, it’ll most likely take you a bit longer.
While I definitely recommend visiting this behemoth of a shopping centre, you should be prepared to allocate most of the day for an effective trip to Westfield Stratford and its surroundings. However, is it worth it? Absolutely.
3. One New Change
Closest Tube station is St. Paul’s (Central line)
A personal favourite of mine, One New Change is a futuristic shopping centre in the City of London near St Paul’s Cathedral. The building was designed by the prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel and is made up of three floors accommodating over 60 brands and restaurants.
Among others, multiple high-street stores such as Zara, BOSS, and H&M can be found in One New Change along with Gordon Ramsay’s Street Pizza. The public roof terrace is the real influencer though, offering breathtaking views of St Paul’s and the possibility of a drink at the relaxing rooftop bar — thus making One New Change one of the best shopping centres in London.
4. Angel Central Shopping Centre
Closest Tube station is Angel (Northern line)
Angel Central Shopping Centre is a solid retailing destination in Islington. From widespread shopping options to exciting entertainment offers, there’s more than enough to keep busy. Most notably, the Vue Cinema and the O2 Academy Islington are both excellent for a fun night out in Islington.
L’Occitane, H&M, and Flying Tiger Copenhagen — to mention a few — are all well-known retail options at Angel Central. A wide range of gif stores are also present along with dining options such as Itsu, Pret, Wagamama, and more.
Outside of the shopping centre, you’ll find Angel Central’s iconic wing sculpture elegantly towering into the sky. Angel Wings, as it was sufficiently named, has since its instalment in 2003 been a symbol of Angel Central and a focal point for the local community.
5. Coal Drops Yard
Closest Tube station is King’s Cross St Pancras (Northern, Piccadilly, Victoria, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines)
Coal Drops Yard was once a Victorian coal yard – now, it’s part of a new exciting development scheme in King’s Cross. This modern shopping complex is of a rather unique character – and it’s located in a neighbourhood which has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years
Absorb the enticing selection of cafes, bars, and restaurants, and tour a mix of more than 45 different shops. Coal Drops Yard has a lot to explore for anyone interested in a new, fresh shopping experience in London. Best of all? The shopping complex is located mere minutes from King’s Cross and St Pancras stations, meaning it’s easily accessible from almost anywhere in the city.
Consider a visit to the nearby Gasholder Park when you’re done.
Evaluating the best shopping centres in London
There are plenty of options to choose from for sure, but allow me to highlight some rough standpoints to help you in your search:
- Searching for a well-rounded shopping centre close to central London? Go to Westfield London.
- Looking for the biggest shopping centre with a wide variety of stores and restaurants? Go to Westfield Stratford City.
- In the mood for some shopping surrounded by impressive architecture and with stunning views of St Paul’s Cathedral? Go to One New Change.
- In need of options for an exciting night out? Go to Angel Central Shopping Centre.
- Interested in exploring a hip, outdoor shopping complex in a buzzing London neighbourhood? Go to Coal Drops Yard.
Ultimately, the best shopping centres will depend on your specific shopping requirements.
Conclusion
Hopefully, I’ve made your search for the best shopping centres in London a little easier! Keep in mind the shopping centres listed above are my personal favourites, yours may differ — in which case I’d love to hear your input below.
Oh, and when you’re done shopping, may I suggest looking into some of the best things to do in London? I’d also highly recommend seeing the best free museums in London.
Anyhow, that’s all from me. Thank you for reading!
