We’ve all heard the name but what is Oxford Street famous for? In a nutshell: shopping, dining, and nightlife. This major thoroughfare is also a principal tourist attraction in London over the winter holiday season when the street is aglow with festive lights. Choosing hotels in Central London puts you closest to the following shops and amenities.
Where to shop on Oxford Street
Oxford Street is a unique shopping destination as it caters to all types of interests and budgets. There are high street fashion shops, department stores, and flagship designer brands. These are some tips to help you plan.
- Visit early in the morning before the lunchtime and afternoon crowds arrive.
- Start at Marble Arch and work your way east or head west on foot from Oxford Circus.
- Dress with an outer layer you can easily shrug off and carry a tote to stash your winter accessories.
- Most shops favour payments by credit or debit card.
Selfridges
If you visit one shop on Oxford Street, make it Selfridges. This department store is emblematic of British shopping culture where you can browse high-end fashion and accessories, streetwear, homeware, pet products, cosmetics, fragrance, books, and gifts. It’s a pleasure to explore and the experience is further sweetened by the food court and rooftop bar and bistro. This London tourist attraction even has a television series about the US-born founder, Harry Gordon Selfridge.
John Lewis
John Lewis is another hallmark of British shopping and is popular with guests of hotels in Central London. The departments are similar to Selfridges although the fashion labels carried are more affordable without compromising on quality. It’s also a fine destination for tip-top home accessories and ceramics as well as quirky British gifts such as tea sets.
Liberty London
A final high-end department store, the Tudor-style Liberty London has its own premium fabrics range. The floors are bursting with vintage clothing and deluxe accessories that make perfect gifts for loved ones.
Oxford Street Dining and Nightlife
Once the sun sets in London, Oxford Street transforms into a destination for happy hour drinks and dining. Again, the offering is eclectic across pubs, bistros, and fine dining joints.
- Do pay attention to pubs and restaurants selling early bird and prix fixe menus.
- Apply vigilance when scanning QR code menus and protect yourself with a VPN. Most restaurants still carry paper menus.
- It’s normal to see patrons spilling out onto the street at pubs clutching their pints. This is the London way!
Adam and Eve
Handy for hotels in Central London, this modern gastropub is located halfway between Oxford Circus and Tottenham Court Road Underground stations. It serves a variety of ales, wines, and beers plus typical pub grub. Choose from fish and chips, pies, gammon steak, and European-inspired small plates. This is a wonderful place to stop for a refreshment or start a night out in Central London.
Ronnie Scott’s
This iconic jazz and blues lounge has been on the scene since 1959 and hosts established and emerging musicians. Meals and a diverse selection of beverages are served and advance booking is strongly encouraged.