Now that you’ve visited all the major sights and attractions in London, there’s no better way to preserve memories of Big Ben than buying a souvenir (or two). London is chock full of area vendors and stands on the street corners offering the wares of the day. Still, there are some great souvenir shops outfitted with larger selections. If you can resist the corner-street purchase, head over to any of these top souvenir shops in London. You’ll find collectibles, flags, unique chocolate, and much more:
Fancy That of London souvenir shops are a popular chain in London, and you’ll find them with the signature green and white storefronts and Sherlock Holmes silhouette. Other storefronts are in a bold red or ivory white. It’s here that you can pick up the die cast model of the double decker London bus, or the Union Jack Pub bar towel. From t-shirts to mugs, this is a souvenir collector’s haven for all sorts of great finds. Be sure to browse the complete line of Sherlock Holmes gifts too; there’s always somebody on the wish list who could use a traditional Sherlock Holmes deer stalker hat!
When you’re done traversing the Buckingham Palace grounds, make a stop at the London Picture Gallery. This is your opportunity to start a miniature picture collection of all your favorite spots; the framed collections feature miniature,hand-printed pictures of classic London locations and images. Each one is finished ina high gloss wood frame behind glass, and popular themes include Pictures of Westminster, Royal Resdiences, Piccadilly Circus, and the Millennium Collection.
If you haven’t tuned out the television completely during your stay in London, you’re sure to have picked up the BBC station. This national network is the home of most of England’s television programming, and the popular shows can be enjoyed beyond the TV set with a few collectibles and memorabilia. The BBC Shop is found on 50 Margaret Street; purchase DVDs of your favorite shows including the Antiques Roadshow, Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, and Strictly Come Dancing.
Red Bus Souvenirs on 59 York Road is your one-stop shop for all miniature collectibles, T-shirts, some great London bus maps, and the signature red and white scarf you’ll want to wear year round. Pick up a Sherlock Holmes snowglobe here, as well as the Big Ben refrigerator magnet for the roommates back home. This shop is the place to find some fun and quirky gifts.
When you’re ready to recall your London pub crawl, make sure you pick up an authentic wooden pub sign from Baku. You’ll find this gem at 80 Portobello Road, and the store is completely filled with mugs, pencils, toys, and other necessary takeaways.
Finally, a trip down Westminster Abbey will lead you to the Abbey Bookshop, a prime location for postcards, laminated photographs, reprints of fine art, and even collectible towels. These printed towels are a popular London item, usually printed with a palace guard or other London highlight. You’ll want to be sure to pick up a couple to replace those oven mitts back home!
Shopping in London is always a fun activity, and there’s no better way to remember your visit than bringing home some great souvenirs. London’s array of souvenir shops offer everything collectible and even some unique finds; from teddy bears to die cast models of local transport, there’s something for everyone. Make a note to visit any of these top spots for souvenirs on your visit to London!
