Over the past few months, people have taken to online shopping on droves. But, while buying stuff online is easy, returning items has become less simple.
We don’t know about you guys, but we have been confronted with massive lines at the post office each time we’ve had to return an ill-fitting pair of trousers or top. And some things just have to be tried on first.
For one, how are you going to find the perfect pair of sunglasses without trying on at least 20 options? And shoes? Ordering three different sizes of the same shoes can’t be good for the environment. Plus, those high-end statement pieces have got to fit you perfectly.
The physical store is still very much a necessity. And we cannot overstate how glad we are to find so many reopening in the Square Mile. Read on to find all the best brands that have reopened their doors in the City.
Spitalfields Market
Thankfully, this indoor market has such high ceilings and stacks of ventilation – each of which are big wins for safety. That’s a big reason why the market traders are back at it (be it in limited numbers to help with the necessary social distancing) and the permanent stores are mostly all back open to the public.
Don’t miss the likes of The Mercantile London, Dai, Malin & Goetz, Peloton, Benefit Cosmetics, And Other Stories, Barber Barber, The Grocer and Ollie Quinn which have all rejigged their stores to be in sync with government guidelines. Prepare to be covered in antiviral gel by the end of the day.
But if that isn’t enough, continue your retail outing by wandering up Commercial Street – heading on into Shoreditch where you’ll find countless other boutiques open for business. .
56 Brushfield Street E1 6AA
The Royal Exchange
You’d be surprised just how many City of London workers, who walk past the Royal Exchange daily, still don’t know that it is a high-end shopping centre. But once you step through inside this historical landmark, you won’t want to leave anytime soon.
First off, grab some coffee or bubbles at the Fortnum & Mason bar and restaurant so your supercharged for spending all that cash. Just keep in mind that many of the stores are doing appointments only at the moment – so be sure to call ahead.
Head into Hermès, Mont Blanc, Crockett and Jones, Omega, Vashi and Tiffany & Co now and keep checking in to see when the rest of the Royal Exchange’s boutiques reopen.
The Royal Exchange EC3V 3LR
One New Change
The iconic mirrored shopping centre by St Paul’s Cathedral is gearing up for everyone who needs some proper retail therapy.
The likes of Boss, Calvin Klein Underwear and Hackett London are back open alongside Pandora, Swarovski and Fraser Hart. And expect more clothing, beauty and accessories stores to be ready and waiting for your arrival this month.
Treat yourself to something fabulous at any of these spots before dining at the likes of The Ivy Asia, Bread Street Kitchen and Madison. Even the free rooftop is open again – we are just sitting by and waiting for their outdoor yoga sessions to return too.
1 New Change EC4M 9AF
New Street Square
After shutting for quite some time, New Street Square is officially back in action. Most restaurants and retail stores will be letting customers (just at reduced numbers). And anyone visiting the area will be confronted with a whole bunch of signage showing you how to move about the space. Basically, you’ll be able to walk around all the shops but only in one direction (just to make sure everyone keeps their distance).
And, as you’ll see everywhere now, free hand gel stands will be located all over the place for people to use. Be sure to pop down and support these local City of London businesses soon – either of you just want a coffee and pastry or want to go all out and update your entire wardrobe.
New Street Square EC4A3BF
Leadenhall Market
Thank the gods that this modern day Diagon Alley has lifted some of the shop shutters. But you may be shocked to see just how many stores have no reopened yet.
Nonetheless, you can still give your beauty regime a lift at Askinology, Chequers and Nicholson & Griffin and up your smoking game at the famous Kandies Leadenhall.
You’ll even find that Beaugems, Barbour, Diptyque, Hawles & Wainer, Oliver Sweeney and Timpson have all got their doors open to the public too.
Just make sure you take your time wandering around this historic market, taking in all the classic architecture and Harry Potter references.
Gracechurch Street EC3V 1LT
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