Be patient. London is a huge urban area with malls, markets, street vendors, museums, gift shops, souvenir kiosks and department stores. Don't buy all of your gifts in one fell swoop. Take the time to comparison shop, and you will get more bang for your buck.
Head over to Oxford Street. Easily accessible, this popular shopping destination boasts 300 shops and has a nearby tube stop at Oxford Circus. Here you will find historical shops and department stores, including the famous six-story Selfridges. Oxford shoppers often wander off the beaten path to find hidden gems on the side streets.
Peruse for souvenirs in Piccadilly Circus. One of the most famous London attractions is also one of the best places to shop for gifts. Piccadilly, an area formed at the convergence of five busy London streets, has a nice combination of high-end retailers and souvenir shops. Stroll through the fancy shopping "arcades," or stop at a street vendor for a $5 t-shirt.
Knock off a few hours in Notting Hill. Made famous by Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant in the movie of the same name, Notting Hill has an impressive collection of vintage clothing, antiques and record shops. While you're there, stop by the Portobello Road Market, one of the largest, busiest and most diverse London markets.
Consider Canary Wharf. This Docklands location is a thriving business area with a modern shopping center that's open for business every day.
Catch the tube to Regent Street for moderately priced apparel and some of London's oldest stores. Or, grab gifts in the Covent Garden district, known for its eclectic mix of shops and cafes.
