Knightsbridge

One of west London’s most affluent districts, just south of Hyde Park, Knightsbridge remains one of the city’s most upmarket shopping areas. While London’s most iconic department store, Harrods, draws in the most visitors, the surrounding area is crammed with flagship British and international designer stores. London based shoe luminaries like Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik are based along the eponymous street; household name fashion house Prada has two stores nearby and the hugely popular department store Harvey Nichols is Harrods’ closest rival. Adjoining Sloane Street’s shop list reads like a fashion show itinerary with Christian Dior, Chanel, Gucci, Armani, Alberta Ferretti and Nicole Fahri, just some of the famous names. It’s not all about shopping, though – the area is also has many chic bars, pricey restaurants and swanky hair and beauty salons.

If you’re in the mood for maxing out your credit card, you’ll be in good company in Knightsbridge - the luxury district is home to some of the world’s richest people (unsurprising when you consider that apartment prices here are among the world’s highest) as well as Coutts, the bank of Her Majesty the Queen. Thankfully, admiring the buildings doesn’t cost a cent, and the stately elegance of the area’s Victorian architecture makes even window-shopping worthwhile. Visit in the evening hours or over the Christmas period for the most atmospheric experience, with the streets aglow with twinkling lights and the shop windows featuring luminous displays.