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While visiting London’s cultural heavyweights can easily occupy an entire trip, make sure to leave some time for some consumer pursuits here, too. The city does have some of the best shops in Europe, from legendary Harrod’s department store to high-end boutiques on Oxford Street to antique stands on Portobello Road.
Camden Town Get in touch with your inner Goth among the funky vintage shops, galleries, and open-air markets of this student-popular North London enclave. Camden Town; www.camdentown.co.uk
Harrod's Dress to impress or risk getting turned away from the ruling monarch of high-end London department stores; the gourmet food court alone is worth a visit. Knightsbridge; 87-135 Brompton Rd.; 011-44-207-730-1234; www.harrods.com
Oxford Street High-end department store Selfridges rubs elbows with U.S. chains, budget-minded Topshop, and 300 other consumer-friendly spots in Europe's largest shopping district. West End; www.oxfordstreet.co.uk
Portobello Road A dizzying array of vintage collectibles for sale six days a week and site of the world's largest antique market on Saturdays. Notting Hill; www.portobelloroad.co.uk
Spitalfields Market Dating to 1638, this sprawling marketplace explodes on weekends with art-and-fashion-minded shoppers; an international food village provides tasty sustenance. Spitalfields; 105a Commercial St.; www.visitspitalfields.com
The Laden Showroom Want some original threads that won't break the bank? This hip boutique showcases more than 45 up-and-coming designers. Shoreditch; 103 Brick Lane; 011-44-207-247-2431; www.laden.co.uk