Travel Tips - Shopping

Located a short drive or bus ride east from the city centre, Brighton’s Marina is a superb haven away from the crowds, perfect for a short day trip.

You can enjoy people watching at one of the many waterside cafes and restaurants - which include a number of chains including Strada, Café Rouge and Pizza Express - , shopping at the city’s outlet shopping centre or perhaps go bowling at the large Bowlplex centre.

One of my personal highlights however is walking through the quayside and admiring the huge range of yachts and powerboats. There is nothing quite like seeing how the other half live. Water tours and deep sea fishing trips are also available from the marina. You can even walk up each ‘arm’ of the Marina, which offers wonderful views back to the Marina village, or, if you’re feeling energetic, following the undercliff walk all the way to Saltdean, a distance of 4.5km.

After a few hectic hours of shopping in the West End of London, you could well be in need of a time out. If you find yourself stranded in the middle of the high street with nowhere to turn, take a little walk down the cobble stones of Covent Garden and you will come across the hidden sanctuary of Neal’s Yard – a true oasis in the retail insanity.

The range of charming coffee shops and restaurants here provide an array of choice for a perfect mid-afternoon snack and also serve up more substantial dishes if you have built up an appetite. A more ethical coffee break can be had at the World Food Cafe and definitely not to be missed for a quick treat is the delectable carrot muffin from the Neal’s Yard Salad Bar.

Although problems may arise from spending too much time relaxing in the colourful surroundings of this safe haven rather than facing another battle on the high street, the area surrounding the yard features a number of charming boutiques selling everything from antiques, handicrafts and homemade goods that will no doubt help ease you back into the action.

If someone was to ask you what they sell in Camden Market, ‘everything’ would probably the first word that springs to mind. This famous and vibrant shopping haven is an attraction that should be on the top on anyone’s list when visiting London. From silver neon club wear to homemade cheese and handicrafts, the old horses’ stables in Camden Town have been transformed into an extremely popular market, offering something for everyone.

What’s more is that Camden market is a perfect contrast to the high-priced melee of the West End and anyone on the lookout for some retro threads, extreme gothic wear or (especially) funky headwear you can find some unbelievable bargains. Adding to the list are a number of nick-knack stores and bookshops close to the canal, with Black Gull Books boasting an eclectic range to rival any of its high-street counterparts.

Food stalls, with cuisine from the four corners of the world, will keep going, but be prepared for some seriously large crowds, particularly at the weekends. If you want some elbow room, your best bet is to squeeze in a mid-week morning visit, when you can have the whole place to yourself.

Established way back in 1877 RD Franks, just off Oxford Street is the essential stomping ground of any fashionista in London. Stop by for some serious people watching and an endless array of fashion/design magazines or books.