The best time to visit department stores is without a doubt at Christmastime. You are sure to see some epic Christmas lights and Christmas window displays to get you in the festive mood. No matter what city you are in the department stores will not let you down
Selfridges-Selfridges in London, Manchester or Birmingham is great. All brands, products and Christmas gifts all under one roof what more do you want. Browsing the food halls in Selfridges is always a delight, especially when they are giving out free samples. The Selfridges in London always has great window displays, with the front of the store adored in lights. When in Selfridges do not forget to visit the Christmas department, maybe it is your tradition to buy a new bauble each Christmas, or maybe you need some inspiration – Christmas Shop is the best place to start! Selfridges in London has a new bag hall and its amazing, so do not forget to check it out!
Harrods-Harrods is so beautiful covered in all the lights and is such an iconic building in London. Even if you cannot afford to buy anything here its always such a great experience. The food hall is simply stunning the decor is amazing. Do not forget to visit the white and black halls with the perfume (also know as the perfumery and cosmetics hall). Do not forget to visit the signature Harrods Christmas World which transports you to a magical Christmas world (not literally!) If you are wanting to treat yourself why not visit The Georgian for Afternoon Tea.
Hamley’s- You are never too old to visit Hamley’s and its even more of a fab and magical experience at Christmas time. As soon as you enter the doors you feel like a kid again, with the shop assistants flying aeroplanes around you or showing you magic tricks, theres something for everyone here and you won’t be disappointed. I would advise to go early to later in the day as Hamlets as become somewhat of a tourist attraction. Do not forget to purchase the iconic Hamley’s Bear!
Fortnum and Mason- When in London, you must visit the “Queen’s Supermarket” (!!). Fortnum and Mason transports you back in time and its so quintensitally English you will want to spend all day here! From sampling chocolates on the ground floor to googling handbags. Do not forget to visit the Christmas Hamper department and look at the iconic F&M Hampers. They make excellent Christmas presents too!
John Lewis- Who doesn’t love John Lewis, and I think its their delightful staff that make the shopping experience what it is. Nothing is ever trouble for the partners and they are always there to help. The great thing about John Lewis is that most towns and cities in the UK will have one, so anyone can visit! We do love the John Lewis cafe because their shortbread and flapjacks taste amazing! However if you happen to visiting the John Lewis on Oxford Street make sure you visit the roof garden in association with The Gardening Society. You can purchase Christmas trees here and also enjoy some food or a glass of champagne. There aren’t that many tables so I would advise you to book. However if you don’t mind sitting outside with your drink its okay to just turn up.
Liberty – A quintessentially British department store is a must see at Christmas. Liberty has a whole floor dedicated to Christmas (floor 6 to be precise!) and its a magical winter wonderland. Even if you don’t buy anything its nice to visit Liberty’s and do a spot of window shopping. Liberty’s is located at the top of Carnaby Street so why not check out the cool lights here and there are many shops to visit here too!
