London isn’t known for being a cheap city. Hotels and meals out can add up quickly but thankfully there are some things you can enjoy when you’re in the capital on a budget. In particular if you enjoy a spot of retail therapy there are plenty of great places to shop cheaply and pick up some great bargains.
Flying Tiger
A cross between Ikea and Poundland, Flying Tiger Copenhagen bring Scandinavian style and design to a range of homewares, stationary, children’s toys, accessories and knick-knacks. Entering a Flying Tiger can be a dangerous business, as even if you don’t think you need anything there’s bound to be something cute and cheerful you’ll want, and because everything is so cheap it’s a great place to treat yourself on a budget. Flying tiger also stocks more practical items which are surprisingly good quality such as bathroom and kitchen products at such a reasonable it would be rude not to!?
Muji
If you like your fashion and homeware on the classic, minimalist side, Japanese lifestyle store Muji may be the one for you. Stocking excellent quality unbranded stationery, storage solutions, furniture, gadgets, clothing and homewares with a muted colour palette and natural materials. It’s a great store if you want to get your home organised as they have a wide range of storage products. They also have a line of no-frills beauty products and travel sized bottles which are popular with regular travellers, perfect if you want to treat the adventurer in your life, or if you need something to decant your products into for your next trip.
Monki
If you’re in the market for some trendy women’s fashion which is also wallet friendly there aren’t many better places than Monki. Aimed at the younger end of the market (and those who are young at heart), Monki’s clothes are fun, brightly coloured and highly patterned – perfect if you want to inject a bit of zest into your wardrobe. Monki’shighstreet women’s clothes are very reasonably priced, t-shirts start at just £6 and jeans are between £30 – £50. There is also a greatrange of cheap underwear with bras starting at around £10. Another plus is that there is a wide range of sizes available so you can getenjoy yourcheap fashion haul whatever your size.
Primark
No list of the best cheap places to shop in Londonwould be complete without including Primark. Though it’s often busy and sometimes doesn’t have the neatest displays, the clothing and accessories are so cheap that it’s easy to put those issues aside. Selling everything from clothing and accessories for men, women and children they also sell underwear, homeware and other seasonal items. The flagship storeon Oxford Street has an impressive 80,000 sq ft of bargains on display which means you’re bound to find yourself a bargain.
TK Maxx
If you’re after a great deal. TK Maxx is the store for you. This high street chain is known for its huge savings on household brands and designers. Whether you’re after a designer bag, or some top quality cookware you can be sure you’ll be getting an excellent discount. Come with an open mind and be prepared to hunt for bargains.
HEMA
Another European gem for cheap and cheerful shopping is HEMA. With the slogan ‘original design, surprisingly low prices’, thishome and lifestyle store from the Netherlands is full of quirky gifts, home accessories and party supplies. It’s also a great place to stock up on funky stationary, brightly coloured kitchen accessories and delicious Dutch snacks such as stroopwafels.
Vintage stores
If you love vintage style, London is one of the best places in the world to find a pre-loved bargain. Beyond Retro and Rokit vintage are some of the most popular destinations for retro clothing for both men and women and stock reasonably priced, totally unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. Some stores even have pieces by big name designers such as Chanel and Dior, for a fraction of the price you’d normally pay. It’s also worth checking out Oxfam and other charity stores in wealthier areas of London such as Notting Hill and Marylebone as these can be filled with hidden gems.
Portobello Market
If you like the hustle and bustle of the market then one of the best places in London to find a bargain is the famous Portobello Market. It’s wise to plan your day and get there as early as you can on the weekend as it can become very busy later in the day. If you’re prepared to have a good root around you’ll be sure of snagging some bargains like a great looking leather jacket or a unique vintage ornament. Take cash and be prepared to haggle.