Don't…
Make a beeline for Oxford Street

The United Kingdom is awash in chain stores, and London's Oxford Street is no exception. Impressive as its array of shops is, an extended stay on this crowded strip, particularly on a weekend, can bring about a serious case of claustrophobia. A notorious magnet for jostling crowds, the Oxford Circus end is dominated by tacky gift boutiques and cheap clothes emporiums. If you can't resist the street's forward-thinking Selfridges department store, or the iconic multistory Topshop flagship, aim to get in and out quickly (just avoid weekends).

Instead…
Head for the edgier East End

Hip Shoreditch in London's East End is where you'll discover independent boutiques selling all things creative and edgy. Scout for some unique pieces by English product and furniture designer Jasper Morrison in his studio/shop on a rather downtrodden section of Kingsland Road. Redchurch Street is fast becoming the place to be: Look to Caravan (pictured), an interior design and gift shop, for pretty and surreal vintage charms; Hostem, for fashion-forward urban menswear; and Aubin & Wills, for quintessentially English fashion (cool tweeds and sophisticated knitwear), a top-floor art gallery, and a luxurious independent cinema downstairs.

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