Travel Tips - Shopping-for-gifts

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.

If you’re serious about your coffee, then it is well worth making a pilgrimage to 68 Goldstone Villas where you’ll find the small, but perfectly formed, boutique coffee shop and roastery of the Small Batch Coffee Company.

Located just a stones throw from Hove station, owners Brad and Al import, roast and grind all of the beans themselves on the premises, ensuring freshness and quality, and if you get there on roasting day you’ll be able to smell the roasting coffee way out into the street.

In the shop you’ll find a coffee bar and a selection of papers, while outside is a comfortable seating area, which is perfect for watching the world go by in the sunshine. It’s of no surprise that the shop is so popular, especially with the morning station crowd, and I can see myself becoming a regular.

The Small Batch Coffee Company has a commitment to freshness and quality and they supply a large number of local cafes, bars, shops and restaurants, both in Sussex and London, so if you’re as crazy about coffee as I am, then why not pick up a bag of beans or coffee grinds while you’re in Brighton, or better still stop off at the shop… it’s well worth a visit.