London is one of the world’s capitals of shopping. But, away from Oxford Street and Regent Street, you might want to seek out some of these delightful places – where service and quality comes before chasing rock-bottom prices and mass markets.
James Smith
The perfect English gentleman has the perfect English umbrella - and the chances are, he bought it here. Did you know you should have an umbrella made to measure for your height, so that it makes a good walking stick, too?
53 New Oxford Street WC1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 4731
Tube: Holborn
www.james-smith.co.uk
James Lock
Inventors of the bowler hat, this 300-year-old firm has supplied hats to a who’s who of history. They even fitted the Queen for her coronation crown, as well as supplying Indiana Jones with the well-worn fedoras for his movie adventures.
6 St James's Street SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7930 8874
Tube: Green Park
John Lobb
Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, Aristotle Onassis and George Bernard Shaw, prime ministers and kings have all had their shoes handmade at Lobb. It’s an expensive, and lengthy process, where quality is never compromised.
9 St James's Street SW1
Tel:+44 20 7930 3664/5
Tube: Green Park
www.johnlobbltd.co.uk
Riders And Squires
All your needs for playing polo or riding horses, or just for looking the part, from boots and hats to saddles and body protectors. There’s also some good country gear, such as hats, walking sticks and picnic essentials.
8 Thackeray Street W8
Tel: +44 (0)20 7937 4377
Tube: High Street Kensington
www.ridersandsquires.co.uk
D R Harris
This chemist was founded in St James's in 1790 and has been supplying shaving and smoking essentials to St James’s Palace and international dignitaries since. Since 2002, it has enjoyed a Royal Warrant from Prince Charles.
29 St James's Street SW1
Tel:+44 20 7930 8753
Tube: Green Park
www.drharris.co.uk
Turnbull & Asser
Since 1885, Turnbull & Asser have been dressing royalty, politicians and film stars - as well as James Bond. Although they do a complete menswear collection, they are famed for their shirts and ties, made in English factories.
71 & 72 Jermyn Street SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7 808 3000
Tube: Green Park
www.turnbullandasser.co.uk
Any comments - or a suggestion? Please e-mail me.
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