There’s nothing more magical than London at Christmas time; streets are lit up by twinkling lights, shops are adorned with extraordinary displays and the sweet smell of mulled wine fills the air. With the festive spirit also come the crowds of tourists and locals, all working through their all-important Christmas shopping list.

But we’ll let you into a little secret: there’s so much more to shopping in London than just Oxford Street. Lesser known shopping streets and areas help you beat the crowds at Christmas, whilst discovering some delightfully different boutiques, brands, shops and cafes. So we’ve rounded up some of the very best options, many of which are a stone’s throw away from The Doyle Collection London hotels.

If you’re staying at: The Kensington

The Kings Road
You’re likely to spot a few famous faces walking down this street. Famed for its quirky one-off boutiques and high-end designer names, The Kings Road has an eclectic mix of shops to suit every taste. Tucked away amongst the shops and back-alleys you’ll also find some fantastic English pubs to refuel after a hard day’s shopping. 12 minute walk from The Kensington. 

© 2015 Jim Lasbury. All Rights Reserved.

Harrods
Stay at The Kensington and one of London’s most iconic department stores is an easy walk from your hotel. Harrods is well known for its fabulous window displays, golden lights and luxury brands. Throughout the month of December, it’s home to the famous Harrods Christmas Grotto where you can journey through Father Christmas’s toy workshop as well as meeting the man himself. 19 minute walk from The Kensington.

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If you’re staying at: The Bloomsbury

Tottenham Court Road 
Tottenham Court Road has the best selection of home furnishing stores in London, so it’s perfect for snooping out home and interior Christmas gifts. Despite being perpendicular to busy Oxford Street, Tottenham Court Road is much less busy and still has a beautiful display of Christmas lights. 2 minute walk from The Bloomsbury.

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Seven Dials 
This intriguing network of streets is a buzzing hub of independent boutiques, high fashion brands, cool cocktail bars and traditional pubs. Seven Dials links Covent Garden and Soho, two of London’s trendiest areas. 12 minute walk from The Bloomsbury. 

If you’re staying at: The Marylebone

St. Christopher’s Place
Sitting in the heart of the West End, through an unsuspecting alleyway behind Oxford Street, you’ll find St. Christopher’s Place. With year-round al fresco eateries and an eclectic mix of shops, boutiques and restaurants, it’s a great small-shop Christmas shopping venture. 5 minute walk from The Marylebone.

© 2015 Pryere. All Rights Reserved.

The Lanes of Mayfair
London’s famous Oxford Street is only a 5-minute walk from The Marylebone, but stroll a little further and you’ll find The Lanes of Mayfair. Not only is it a great retail section for luxury and premium brands, but the area is also steeped in history and culture. The Lanes encompass iconic streets such as South Molton Street, Brook Street and Avery Row. Muddled with a mixture of independent and well known boutiques, restaurants, and antiques shops, The Lanes is a must visit this Christmas. Between 8-10 minutes walk from The Marylebone.

© 2015 Jeff Carter. All Rights Reserved.

Marylebone Village 
Marylebone High Street is the definition of a picture perfect London street with less than half the crowds than on nearby Oxford Street. Here you’ll find a haven of high quality and independent retailers, bars, cafes and eateries. Marylebone Village encompasses culture and character whilst playing home to some of London’s most on-trend shops, making it a charming festive shopping area. 1 minute walk from The Marylebone.

Thinking of a Christmas Shopping break in London this December? Check out our Selfridges Christmas Shopping Experience Package.

What did you think of our Alternative Christmas Shopping Streets in London round up? Tweet us at @DoyleCollection and tell us on Facebook