London is definitely a shopper’s paradise. The city has a fantastic selection of souvenirs to suit every taste and budget. In this ultimate guide to the best gifts from London, I’ll show you where to find your perfect gift in the British capital.
- Food and Drink: Tasty London Gifts
- Iconic London Souvenirs
- British-Themed Clothing and Accessories
- Unique Souvenirs for Art and Culture Lovers
- Sports Memorabilia
- London-Inspired Books and Stationery
- Harris Tweed
- Antiques and Vintage Items
- Fine China and Ceramics
- High-End Umbrellas
- Harry Potter Collectibles
- Paddington Bear
Food and Drink: Tasty London Gifts
Traditional British Tea
Nothing quite says ‘London’ like a comforting cup of traditional British tea. Whether you prefer Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or something a bit more exotic, there’s a blend for everyone.
When it comes to purchasing tea gifts in London, you have several options. Some famous English tea brands have their own flagship stores in the city, where you can find an extensive selection of their teas. These stores offer unique blends and tea-related products that make excellent gifts.
In addition to brand-specific stores, you can also buy your tea gifts in specialty tea shops, department stores, and even supermarkets.
London’s tea flagship stores
Whittard of Chelsea
Whittard of Chelsea is a well-known supplier of tea, coffee beans, and hot chocolate. They have multiple locations throughout the city and an outstanding selection of teas sourced from all corners of the world.
Whittard of Chelsea has something for everyone’s taste, from timeless classics like Earl Grey and English Breakfast to unusual blends infused with exotic fruits and spices.
Plus, they offer a variety of tea accessories and gift sets in stylish packaging.
Whittard of Chelsea Regent Street 65/67 Regent St.
Whittard of Chelsea Oxford Street 53 Oxford St.
Whittard of Chelsea Covent Garden 9, The Marketplace
Whittard of Chelsea Strand 435 Strand
Twinings
Twinings is one of the oldest and most well-known tea brands in England, with a history dating back to 1706.
With a rich history spanning centuries, Twinings has become synonymous with top notch quality and expertise in the tea industry.
They offer a wide range of teas, including classic black teas and herbal infusions.
Twinings - Strand 216 Strand
East India Company
Nestled in Mayfair, The East India Company is renowned for its exquisite and carefully curated range of teas, coffees, and fine foods.
This luxury brand offers beautifully packaged tea gifts, specialty teas, and tea accessories.
Check out their popular loose leaf teas, such as Staunton Earl Grey or Royal Flush, from their most popular signature collection.
The East India Company 94 New Bond Street, London, W1S 1SJ
Speciality Tea Shops
London is also home to numerous specialty tea shops. These shops often stock a diverse selection of English teas, including both well-known brands and artisanal options.
Check out Postcard Teas in Mayfair for rare artisanal teas, The Tea House in Covent Garden for an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas and tea accessories, or My Cup of Tea in Soho for their organic and biodynamic teas.
Postcard Teas 9 Dering Street, New Bond Street London, W1S 1AG
The Tea House 15 Neal Street Covent Garden London WC2H 9PU
My Cup Of Tea 5 Denman Pl, London W1D 7AH
Department Stores
Shopping for tea in a department store is a convenient alternative to tea flagship stores.
You get a wider selection of teas and the opportunity to buy other gifts like snacks, chocolates and biscuits.
Fortnum & Mason boasts an exquisite tea selection, showcasing unique blends and single-origin options in luxurious packaging.
Selfridges offers a varied choice of teas in unusual packaging. This includes classic English varieties and exotic blends. Keep an eye out for their limited-edition tea releases.
For a luxurious tea shopping experience, head to Harrods, where you’ll find an impressive tea section with exclusive and rare blends from various brands.
Fortnum & Mason 181 Piccadilly
Selfridges 400 Oxford St
Harrods 87-135 Brompton Rd
Supermarkets
Large supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, and Marks & Spencer typically have dedicated sections for tea where you can find a variety of English tea brands.
British biscuits
Biscuits are a quintessential part of British food culture and a beloved treat. Perfect for tea time, these artisanal treats often come in eye-catching packaging with iconic British motifs.
You can find tasty English biscuits in various department stores but if you’re on the lookout for something absolutely unique head to The Biscuiteers.
The Biscuiteers
The Biscuiteers is a biscuit wonderland, with two fancy boutiques in London.
They are known for their beautifully hand-iced biscuit masterpieces (almost too pretty to eat!). Their melt-in-the-mouth buttery shortbread, infused with chocolate and vanilla flavours, taste fabulous.
Their collection showcases many innovative creations packaged in beautifully illustrated tins and boxes.
With their traditional English designs and themed assortments, The Biscuiteers’ biscuits make perfect gifts for any occasion. Check out their London Luxe Biscuit Tin, Paddington Bear or London Calling Collections.
Biscuiteers Notting Hill 194 Kensington Park Rd
Biscuiteers Belgravia 14-15 Eccleston Yards, 21 Eccleston Pl
British chocolate
Britain has a long tradition of chocolate making. Despite not being the first country that springs to mind when you think of chocolate, England is home to many famous chocolatiers.
For the best chocolate gifts, visit top English chocolate makers including Rococo Chocolates, Charbonnel et Walker, Prestat, Paul A. Young, Artisan du Chocolat and Hotel Chocolat.
I had the pleasure of tasting their chocolates when on a chocolate tour in London, and I can assure you that they are pure heaven in your mouth.
Rococo Chocolates
Rococo Chocolates, a British chocolatier with over 35 years of experience, is renowned for its ethical and sustainable practises. They ensure that only the finest ingredients are used in their chocolates.
Their creative flavours, such as Earl Grey tea and Dark Cardamom, combined with one-of-a-kind packaging showcase their commitment to craftsmanship.
They offer a delightful range of luxurious chocolate gifts, including handmade truffles. Don’t miss their Best of British Collection, featuring their bestselling treats.
Rococo Chocolates Marylebone 3 Moxon St
Rococo Chocolates King's Road 321 King's Rd
Charbonnel et Walker
Charbonnel et Walker holds a Royal Warrant and is an official chocolate supplier to the British royal household.
Their chocolates are renowned for their high quality. Queen Elizabeth II loved their exclusive English Rose and Violet Creams.
Charbonnel et Walker has something for everyone, from gin-infused chocolates to the most popular champagne truffles. I particularly adore their heart-shaped chocolate boxes.
Charbonnel et Walker One, 28 The Royal Arcade, Old Bond St
Prestat
Prestat is particularly famous for its chocolate truffles. The brand’s exquisite delights have won the hearts of renowned writers such as Roald Dahl, the author of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
Prestat also holds a prestigious Royal Warrant and serves as a supplier to the Royal Household.
Prestat’s chocolates are a true indulgence for the palate. Their eye-catching packaging, in particular the iconic pink boxes, really set them apart.
Prestat 14 Princes Arcade, Piccadilly
Paul A. Young
Paul A. Young is an acclaimed chocolatier known for his innovative approach to flavour, constantly pushing boundaries and creating tantalising taste experiences.
With creations like salted caramel truffles and smoky chili-infused ganaches, every bite is a thrilling journey for the senses.
Check out Paul’s award-winning and fresh handmade truffle selection.
Paul A. Young Camden Passage Islington
Hotel Chocolat
With numerous shops throughout London, Hotel Chocolat is a must-visit destination for chocolate connoisseurs.
What distinguishes Hotel Chocolat is their unique approach to chocolate making. They source premium cocoa beans from their own sustainable farms in Saint Lucia, ensuring the highest quality of their chocolate and ethical practices.
They offer an extensive range of stylish boxed chocolate and truffle selections, chocolate goody bags and slabs.
Hotel Chocolat 4 Monmouth St.
Hotel Chocolat Charing Cross Station, Strand
Hotel Chocolat 294 Regent St.
Artisan du Chocolat
Artisan du Chocolat has been revolutionising British chocolates since 1999. They craft all their chocolates by hand in their atelier in the Kent Countryside.
Check out their legendary salted caramels, ganaches, nutty pralines, and Ruby chocolate mini bars.
Artisan du Chocolat 89 Lower Sloane St.
Other sweets
London is a haven for traditional British sweets. From creamy fudges to irresistible toffees and chocolate eclairs, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Head to large department stores or Borough Market, where you’ll discover a wide selection of unique and delectable treats.
Borough Market London SE1 9AL (next to London Bridge Station)
Gin
London boasts a thriving gin scene. You you can find here a variety of gin-related gifts from artisanal bottles to cocktail-making kits.
Check out specialist gin shops like Sacred Distillery or visit Borough Market for a wide range of gin-themed gifts.
Some distilleries offer tours where you can learn about the gin-making process and buy their products directly from their shops.
Iconic London Souvenirs
Iconic London souvenirs truly capture the spirit of the city. Whether it’s red telephone box memorabilia or Union Jack merchandise, these items are quintessentially British and make the perfect gift to bring back from your trip to London.
Royal Memorabilia
Exploring the world of royal gifts and souvenirs is a must-do if you’re a fan of the British monarchy. Here are some popular places to shop for royal memorabilia in the city.
The Royal Collection Trust Shops
The Royal Collection Trust manages several gift shops across London, including the Queen’s Gallery Shop, Buckingham Palace Gift Shop, The Royal Mews Shop and The Garden Shop. These shops offer a selection of royal-themed items, including chinaware, homeware, jewellery, books, and other souvenirs inspired by the British monarchy.
Buckingham Palace Rd
The Tower of London Shop
Situated within the Tower of London, this gift shop specialises in royal memorabilia such as crown and tiara replicas, medieval-inspired jewellery, toys and books, and other goods related to the Tower’s fascinating history.
Tower of London Shop 5BT, Tower Place West
Online Retailers
In addition to physical stores, there are some online retailers that specialise in royal memorabilia.
You can purchase a wide range of authentic and high-quality royal-themed products from the comfort of your home. The Royal Collection Shop and Historic Royal Palace Shop are the best places to buy from.
Royal Collection Shop
Historic Royal Palaces Shop
London Landmarks: Miniatures and Collectibles
London landmarks are renowned for their historical significance and architectural grandeur. Collectible miniatures and replicas of these landmarks are popular London gifts.
From Big Ben and Tower Bridge to Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, these miniatures come in various forms like metal figurines, ceramic and wood models, and puzzles.
You can find them in specialty gift shops, souvenir shops, and online retailers dedicated to London-themed merchandise.
London Underground Memorabilia
The London Underground is not only a convenient mode of transport but also an integral part of the city’s identity. A replica of the London underground roundel sign is a popular gift from London.
Almost all gift stores sell products inspired by the iconic Tube map, like posters, mugs, bookmarks, and tote bags.
Red Telephone Booths Memorabilia
The red telephone booth is an iconic sight in London. While these traditional telephone booths have largely been replaced by modern alternatives, they still hold a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
From miniature replicas to keychains and mugs with the red telephone booth motif, these souvenirs are a perfect way to take a piece of London’s history home with you.
Double-Decker Bus Memorabilia
London’s double-decker buses are as much a part of the city’s identity as the red telephone booths. Almost every gift and souvenir shop in the city sells miniature model buses, keychains, and stylish t-shirts with the iconic double-decker design.
British Royal Guard Memorabilia
The stoic and ceremonial Royal Guards standing outside Buckingham Palace are a quintessential symbol of British royalty.
You can find various souvenirs featuring these iconic figures in their distinctive red uniforms and tall bearskin hats. They may include keychains, figurines, bookmarks, and stationary.
Union Jack gifts and merchandise
The Union Jack, the national flag of the United Kingdom, is often displayed on different items to showcase the British heritage.
In London, you can find many popular souvenirs featuring the Union Jack design. From clothing items like scarves and hats to home decor such as cushions and tea towels.
British-Themed Clothing and Accessories
T-shirts, hoodies, scarves, and bags with the Union Jack flag, London landmarks, or other British motifs are also popular gifts that can be found in many souvenir shops.
Unique Souvenirs for Art and Culture Lovers
Museum and Gallery Gift Shops
Discover art-inspired souvenirs at London’s renowned museums and galleries. Visit the British Museum, Tate Modern, Victoria and Albert Museum, or the National Gallery for curated selections of prints, art books, home decor, and stationery.
Local Artwork: Prints and Handcrafted Goods
London boasts a vibrant art scene and you can take home a piece of the city’s creative spirit.
Visit independent art galleries and markets in Camden, Covent Garden or Spitalfields to buy local artwork including prints of iconic landmarks, handmade jewellery and street art-inspired pieces.
Sports Memorabilia
Football Club merchandise
London is a city with a deep-rooted passion for football. For sports enthusiasts and football fans visiting London, collecting sports memorabilia is an excellent way to celebrate the city’s football heritage.
You can find a lot of sports memorabilia related to iconic London clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, and West Ham United.
Arsenal FC
The Arsenal Stadium, known as the Emirates Stadium, houses the official club shop where fans can find a wide range of memorabilia.
From jerseys, hats, and scarves adorned with the iconic cannon emblem to bags, jewellery, homeware, glassware, toys, badges, keyrings, books and footballs, there are plenty of options for Arsenal enthusiasts.
You will also find many independent sports stores in the area surrounding the stadium.
The Armoury Emirates Stadium Hornsey Road London N7 7AJ
Chelsea FC
The official Chelsea Megastore, located at Stamford Bridge, is a haven for fans looking for authentic memorabilia.
Here, you can discover an assortment of Chelsea officially branded merchandise including car products, fashion accessories, footwear, headwear, toys and games.
Chelsea Megastore Stamford Bridge, Fulham Road London SW6 1HS
West Ham United FC
The West Ham United official club store, located at the London Stadium, offers a wide range of memorabilia for fans including official team jerseys and scarves, personalised mugs and autographed items.
Independent sports stores also offer a variety of West Ham United memorabilia, including vintage programs, signed merchandise, and unique collectibles celebrating the club’s history.
London Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London, E20 2ST
London-Inspired Books and Stationery
For bookworms and stationery lovers, the city offers a vast selection of London-inspired books and stationery items.
Classic British Literature
London is a literary paradise for fans of classic British authors. Bookstores like Foyles on Charing Cross Road and Daunt Books in Marylebone offer a large range of classic British books, many of which are set in London.
Foyles 107 Charing Cross Rd
Daunt Books Marylebone 84 Marylebone High St
Unique Stationery Items
In London, you can find a variety of unique stationery items from quirky notebooks to artistic postcards.
Paperchase is a popular stationery store that offers a wide range of stylish and original stationary items. They often have London-themed collections that include notebooks, pens, and other accessories.
Paperchase Unit 16B, St Pancras Station, Pancras Rd
You can find high-quality stationary souvenirs in Harrods, Liberty, and other famous department stores. Their dedicated stationary sections feature a selection of London-themed items.
Liberty London Regent St. Carnaby, London
Harrods 87-135 Brompton Rd
Museums, gallery shops and bookstores are also great places to find stationary souvenirs with a London theme.
Vintage books
For collectors of vintage books, London boasts a vibrant second-hand book market. Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is one of the best shopping locations for rare first editions and beautifully worn-out classics.
Harris Tweed
Harris Tweed, renowned for its quality and heritage, is a fabric that exudes timeless elegance and British craftsmanship.
Discover a wide range of Harris Tweed products in London’s upscale boutiques and specialty stores, including jackets, waistcoats, handbags, cushions, and throws.
For the finest Harris Tweed gifts, explore famous department stores like Harrods and Selfridges, or visit independent boutiques in Mayfair and Chelsea for unique pieces that embody the essence of Harris Tweed.
Antiques and Vintage Items
From bustling markets to elegant antique shops, the city provides countless opportunities to purchase unique vintage items. Head to Portobello Road Market or Alfies Antique Market, to find vintage jewellery, antique furniture or retro clothing in one of many vintage stores.
Fine China and Ceramics
Whether you are looking for delicate tea sets or decorative vases, you are guaranteed to find your ideal piece of fine china in London.
In department stores such as Selfridges and Harrods, you will find high-quality porcelain from English famous fine china manufacturers like Wedgwood or Royal Doulton.
Selfridges 400 Oxford St.
Harrods 87-135 Brompton Rd
High-End Umbrellas
London, a city renowned for its ever-changing weather, has got your back (or rather your head) covered with a quirky collection of high-end umbrellas.
Check out renowned shops such as James Smith & Sons, Fox Umbrellas, Fulton Umbrellas and Swaine Adeney Brigg for a vast range of stylish and sophisticated umbrellas.
James Smith & Sons Hazelwood House 53 New Oxford Street
Fulton Umbrellas Premier Park, 1
Swaine Adeney Brigg 18-19 Burlington Arcade
Fox Umbrellas 240a Wickham Road Croydon
Harry Potter Collectibles
In London, you’ll find a broad variety of Harry Potter souvenirs, whether you’re looking for Harry Potter’s wand or a stunning Hogwarts replica.
To find the perfect gift for yourself or a Harry Potter fan, be sure to visit The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station or explore the dedicated Harry Potter section at the world-famous toy store Hamleys on Regent Street.
The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ King's Cross Station Euston Rd.
Hamleys 188-196 Regent St.
Paddington Bear
Paddington Bear is without a doubt one of the most well-known British childhood characters.
This lovable bear with his signature blue coat and red hat has been capturing hearts for generations.
If you are on the hunt for a Paddington Bear, London is the perfect place to find one. Head to Hamleys or Paddington Bear Shop located in Paddington Station itself.
Hamleys 188-196 Regent St.
Paddington Station Praed St, London
I hope you enjoyed my guide to the best gifts from London. Please share your own ideas and suggestions for the best London gifts in the comments section below.
