Shopping in the UK: my favorite stores. Shopping in England: outlets, shopping centers, markets and shops in Great Britain Shopping in England what to buy

30.06.2023

I would like to tell you about shopping in the United Kingdom. Marks & Spencer is Britain's favorite store. Tourists love it too. It attracts a great variability of customers from house wives to millionaires. Princess Diana, Dustin Hoffman and the British Prime-minister are just a few of its famous customers. Last year it made a profit of 529 million pounds. Which is more than 10 million a week.

It all started 105 years ago when a young Polish immigrant Michael Marks had a stall in Leeds market. He didn't have many things to sell: some cotton, a little wool, lots of buttons and a few shoelaces. Above his stall he put the now famous notice: "Don"t ask how much - it"s a penny." Ten years later he met Tom Spencer and together they started Penny stalls in many towns in the North of England. Today there are 564 brands of Marks & Spencer all over the world: in America, Canada, Spain, France, Belguim and Hungary.

The store bases its business on 3 principals: good value, good quality and good service. Also, it changes with the times; once it was all jumpers and knickers. Now it is food, furniture and flowers as well. Top fashion designers advice on styles of clothes. Perhaps the most important key to its success is its happy well-trained staff. Conditions of work are excellent. There are company doctors, dentists, hairdressers, etc. And all the staff can have lunch for under 40 pence.

Suprisingly tastes in food and clothes are international. What sells well in Paris, sells just as well in Newcastle and Moscow. Their best selling clothes are: for women - jumpers and knickers (M & S is famous for its knickers); for men - shirts, socks, pajamas, dressing gowns and suits; for children - underwear and socks. Best sellers in food include: fresh chickens, vegetables and sandwiches, "Chicken Kiev" is internationally the most popular convience food.

Shopping in Britain is also famous for its Freshfood. Freshfood is a chain of food stores and very successful supermarkets which has grown tremendously in the twenty years since it was founded, and now it has branches in the High Streets of all the towns of any size in Britain. In the beginning the stores sold only foodstuffs, but in recent years they have diversified enormously and now sell clothes, books, records, electrical and domestic equipment. The success of the chain has been due to an enterprising managment and to attractive layout and display in the stores. It has been discovered that impulse buying accounts for almost 35 per cent of the total turn over of the stores. The stores are organized comprehensively for self-service and customers are encouraged to wander around the spaciously laid out stands. Special free gifts and reduced prices are used to tempt customers into the stores and they can"t stand the temptation.

Shopping in Britain

I would like to tell you about shopping in the United Kingdom. Marks and Spencer is Britain's favorite store. Tourists love it too. He attracts a large number of clients from housewives to wives of millionaires. Princess Diana, Dustin Hoffman and the British Prime Minister are just some of his celebrity clients. Last year it made a profit of £529 million, more than £10 million a week.

It all started 105 years ago when young Polish immigrant Michael Marks opened a stall in Leeds Market. He didn't have many things to sell: some cotton, wool, a lot of buttons and a few laces. Above the stall he hung the now well-known inscription: “Don’t ask how much - just a penny.” Ten years later he met Tom Spencer, and together they began building "penny kiosks" in many cities in the north of England. Today there are 564 Marks & Spencer subsidiary stores around the world: in America, Canada, Spain, France, Belgium and Hungary.

The store bases its business on 3 principles: good prices, good quality and good service. In addition, it changes over time, before it was jumpers and panties. Now it also includes food, furniture and flowers. The best fashion designers advise on clothing. Perhaps the most important key to success is its happy, well-trained staff. The working conditions are excellent. The company has its own doctors, dentists, hairdressers, etc. And all staff can eat lunch for less than 40p.

It's amazing how tastes in food and clothing coincide throughout the world. What sells well in Paris also sells well in Newcastle and Moscow. The bestsellers are: for women - sweaters and panties ("M and S" is famous for panties), for men - shirts, socks, pajamas, robes and suits, for children - underwear and socks. Top food items include: fresh chicken, vegetables and sandwiches, with Kiev being the most popular prepared food item internationally.

Shopping in the UK is also famous for its "Fresh Food". Fresh Food is a highly successful chain of shops and supermarkets that has grown substantially in the twenty years since it was founded and now has branches on the High Street and in every town of any size in the UK. In the beginning, only food products were sold in stores, but in recent years They have an extremely diverse range and now sell clothing, books, records, electrical equipment and white goods. The chain's success was due to entrepreneurial management and attractive design and display in stores. It was found that impulse buying accounts for almost 35 percent of a company's total turnover. The stores are organized for self-service and customers are encouraged to wander through spacious rows of stands. Special gifts and discounted prices are used to entice customers so that they cannot resist the temptation.

Great Britain is associated, first of all, with high-quality shopping. The most suitable city for making successful purchases is, of course, considered its capital - London, which offers its residents and guests of the city a countless variety of shops and shopping centers designed to suit every taste and budget. Here you can buy absolutely everything: from trinkets to antiques and art, from cosmetics and clothing to household goods and home goods. While walking along the streets of the city, you should not neglect small shops, because in some of them you can find goods from famous brands sold at a reduced price.

In addition to London, you can safely go shopping in other major cities of the country. The most popular of them in terms of shopping are Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, York and others. If during your trip you find yourself not in a large center, but in a small town, do not be upset. You can also find something very interesting there, and large shopping centers are often found in small places. If possible, check out one of the antique stores (for example, Christies or Sotheby`s) - you can find very interesting and unusual items there.

If you run out of cash while on vacation, don’t despair, as almost all stores accept international plastic cards, which makes the shopping process even more convenient. The only distinctive feature of English stores is their relatively early closing time. As a rule, most stores are open from Monday to Saturday from 9.00 to 17.00-17.30 (with the exception of large shopping centers, which may be open until 20.00). On Sundays, shops are open only 6 hours, usually from 10.00 to 16.00. Naturally, there are a number of large supermarkets open around the clock or until 22.00. But there are not many of them. You should also remember that all shops will be closed during major holidays such as Christmas or Easter. Therefore, when planning your vacation, it is better to take this nuance into account in advance.

Your trip to English stores during sales can be especially enjoyable. Interestingly, in the UK, in addition to the traditional sales seasons in summer and winter, there are periods of discounts in different stores throughout the year. Therefore, when passing by stores, do not forget to look at the windows in search of the coveted “Sale” inscription, because perhaps on this very day you will be able to come across a tempting offer and make a profitable purchase. The best time for shopping is considered to be the period before Christmas, when the discount can reach (this is almost incredible) 80-90%, although not everywhere.

In the UK, along with many European countries, there is also a value added tax (VAT) refund system - tax free, which provides the opportunity to return about 11-15% of the cost of goods at the border upon presentation of a coupon and receipt filled out in the store. However, this service is provided only for goods purchased in one store on one day for an amount exceeding £100.

What do people usually buy in the UK? Well, first of all, branded clothing, shoes and accessories. All this, as a rule, is not cheap, but it fully meets the latest fashion trends and is famous for its excellent quality. Although, along with expensive boutiques, you can also find quite budget stores where you can buy quite decent, interesting things for money that is ridiculous by our standards.

In addition, it is impossible to leave the UK without a pack of real English tea, often with the addition of some aromatic herb, such as bergamot or jasmine. In any city you can buy traditional souvenirs: figurines of a red bus or Big Ben, books or a tobacco pipe. When in Scotland, special attention should be paid to the beautiful woolen blankets, as well as kilts and, of course, Scotch whiskey, which has a pleasant taste and soft golden color.

Shopping in England is one of the main entertainments in the country. England is a diverse country and therefore travelers can find a variety of products, both local and international, while here. Well-known retail chains have branches in all major cities of England. Shopping in England can be done in expensive shops and boutiques of leading designers, as well as in small shops at reasonable prices.

London is one of England's main trading centers - it is home to large quantity international chain stores, fashion houses and designer boutiques. The city is one of the largest shopping centers in the world, like New York or Paris. Shopping areas and centers in London boast a wide range of products, from clothing, household items, cosmetics and perfumes to leather goods and accessories. Most shopping centers are located in the city center. There are also small shops on the streets of London where local brands are sold at reduced prices.

In addition to London, other popular shopping centers are Manchester, Bournemouth, Birmingham, Bristol, Eastbourne East Bourne, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Southampton and York (Bournemouth, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, Newcastle, Southampton). Stores in these cities showcase a variety of local and international brands in electronics, accessories, food, casual wear and sportswear.

IN small towns You can also find large shopping centers. Antique stores and shops are also very popular, and you can find wonderful memorabilia and items in stores such as Christies and Sotheby's. Almost all stores accept major international credit and debit cards. While traveling to popular tourist spots, you can buy various items at fairly low prices. The huge selection and variety of goods in England have made shopping one of the important parts of travel.

Store opening hours in England

Most shops in England are open 6 or 7 days a week.

Typical store opening times in England:

  • Monday-Saturday from 09:00 to 17:30 (some shopping centers are open until 20:00)
  • Sunday from 10:00 to 16:00 or from 11:00 to 17:00 (Sunday shopping has become very popular, but despite this, by law, shops can only be open for 6 hours on this day)
  • Large supermarkets are open 24 hours except Sunday
  • Many smaller supermarkets are open Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 22:00, and from 10:00 to 16:00 on Sundays

IN holidays some stores open and some don't. Before the holiday, there will be a notice on the door of any store indicating opening hours during this period.

Absolutely all stores are closed on Christmas Day (December 25) and some stores are closed on New Year's Day (January 1). However, an increasing number of stores are opening on the second day of Christmas (26 December). Most shopping centers are closed on Easter (usually a Sunday).

Sales in England

Big red “Sale” inscriptions will not leave anyone indifferent. Sales in England occur constantly throughout the year. During off-season sales, discounts reach up to 60%.

The best time for shopping is the Christmas period. Pre-holiday sales begin in November with discounts of 10-20%. In many stores during this period the discount amount can reach up to 90%. In the last days before Christmas, there is nothing left on the windows and shelves.

The next period of major sales begins after the New Year celebration. They sell everything to everyone. Maximum discounts, minimum prices. Even in expensive brand boutiques.

But don’t forget: during these periods you need to be as fast and arrogant as possible, otherwise the product you like will disappear from under your nose. Happy shopping!

Tax Free in England

VAT refunds are available for all visitors who do not have British citizenship and are not residents of EU countries. The tax refund amount is approximately 15% of the purchase. In order to receive money, when purchasing, you must ask the seller for a VAT refund form with stamps and a signature. Upon arrival at the airport, you must go to the Global Refund point, fill out a form and provide your receipts (sometimes you may be required to show the goods). Payment is made on the spot or transferred to a bank card.

London attracts tourists not only for its history, but also for the opportunity to fill their suitcases with clothes and other purchases. What to expect from shopping in the British capital?

Now Great Britain is no longer a leading trading country, but this does not mean that the streets of its cities are not imbued with the spirit of trade. London still enjoys the status of fashion capital of the world, alongside cities such as Milan and Paris. Just look at the famous Burberry check and clothes from Ben Sherman and Paul Smith. Once in the western part of the city, one cannot help but be surprised by the wealth of choice of goods available to visitors to the city on the Thames. This is not to mention other areas where there are shopping complexes, shops and markets with more affordable prices. The UK, like its capital, cannot be called cheap, but this does not reduce the love of shopaholics for it, especially during sales.

London Sales 2019

Where would we be without sales in the shopping capital of the world? They are held twice a year - at the height of summer and during the winter holidays. There are also plenty of additional sales, for example, during the company’s anniversary, but it is difficult for ordinary tourists to find out about them. So, you have to go with everyone else in the summer or at the end of December - beginning of January, when the period of great discounts begins, which sometimes amount to 50-75%.

Shopping etiquette

It's nice to be a buyer in London - the service here is at the highest level, so you get a lot of pleasure from shopping if you close your eyes to the price. Returning an item back to the store is not a problem here; you don’t even have to mention the reason for the return. If you have a receipt and intact tags, the item will be exchanged or its entire cost refunded.

In UK stores you are allowed to try on any items you like (except panties), no matter how many there are, while in other countries you can often take only three or four things into the fitting room. If the item does not fit, you can order it - the purchase will be delivered to the specified address (within London) within a few days.

Some British shoe stores offer a very interesting service. At the entrance, clients are given a special coupon with a number, and if it matches the number that will be displayed later on the display (or the seller calls it), then the buyer is served out of turn - they bring him as many shoes to try on as he asks for, until a choice will be made. Russians may be surprised by this type of service, but it helps sellers ensure that the customer does not leave the store empty-handed.

It should also be noted that in the UK there are no annoying sales consultants; they do not “stand over your soul”, as is often the case here. If consultation is needed, they will be happy to help store guests.

Tax refund in London

Tourists from Russia can make shopping a little less expensive on their pockets. For example, when leaving the UK or EU countries, you can return VAT - a tax that is levied at 15% of the cost of all goods, except clothes for children, books and food. In restaurants, VAT is usually included in the price of the meal. The advantage of the system is that its scope covers not only the purchases of ordinary tourists, but also the expenses of entrepreneurs.

Refunding VAT is simple - just keep the receipt (valid for 3 months from the date of purchase) and present it along with the unpacked goods at customs, where they will put a stamp on it. Upon arrival in the Russian Federation, you can return VAT at one of the refund points listed on the Global Refund and Tax-Free-Shopping websites. But there are some nuances here. Firstly, it is necessary that two years before making a purchase, the tourist has stayed in the UK for no more than 365 days, and left the EU while the check is valid. Secondly, the procedure is not supported by every store. It should also be noted that most stores where this system operates set a minimum amount that must be spent in order to then return VAT (about 75 feet).

You can also apply for a card on the Global Refund website for purchases in duty-free stores, this will save the time required to issue a tax-free check.

The tax-free service helps reimburse companies and entrepreneurs who come to the UK. Especially for this purpose, Tax Back International was created in London, which returns VAT on behalf of the entrepreneur.

Shopping areas

There are streets in London that every self-respecting tourist should definitely visit. They are not just shopping areas, but the most beautiful areas of the city. The West End deserves special attention, where there are world-famous streets: Oxford Street, Regent Street, Carnaby Street, Jermyn Street, Tottenham Court Road and Piccadilly, glorified by writers and musicians.

OXFORD STREET

One of the busiest streets in Europe is located between Marble Arch and Tottenham Court Road - this is Oxford Street. More than 200 million pairs of feet pass through it every year, there are three hundred shops and about 5 million square meters. ft. of retail space. The title of the main shopping street came to Oxford Street at the beginning of the twentieth century, when Debenhams and Selfriges stores opened there, which still operate to this day. Tired of noisy and bustling places, you can go to the area of ​​​​large department stores, located between Marble Arch and Oxford Circus. Oxford Street has both expensive department stores and middle-class stores: Zara, Topshop, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, H&M, etc.

BOND STREET

In the Oxford Circus area, Oxford Street intersects with another equally famous street - Bond Street. It included New Bond street, located a short walk from Bond Street station, and Old Bond street (near Picadilly). This is a favorite place for those shopaholics who are not limited by budget. The most expensive and upscale boutiques of world brands are located here. But, it must be said that in some stores the prices are simply incommensurable.

Those who are not bothered by high prices can safely go to Bond Street to buy clothes from Versace, Prada, Chanel, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton. There are also stores here from British fashion houses, such as Burberry and Mulberry. On the same street is Sotheby's, a famous auction house. For the dear ones jewelry you can go to the Cartier, Tiffany and Asprey salons. But the heart of Bond Street is the Fenwick department store, which occupies five floors.

CARNABY STREET

The center of Swinging London was once Carnaby Street. She has been mentioned more than once in songs and films, for example in “Blow-Up” by Michelangelo Antonioni. Now the street has changed somewhat, but has not lost its spirit. Carnaby street is filled with fashionable boutiques, bars and restaurants. For those who prefer urban style in clothing, you can suggest Diesel, American Apparel, and Puma stores. Not far from Carnaby street there are several places that will also be of interest to shopping lovers: Newburgh Street, Foubert’s Place, Kingly Court. Although, unlike Carnaby Street, they cannot be called central. She stays best place to buy shoes, sporting goods and vintage items. If we talk about prices, it is much cheaper here than on Bond Street.

REGENT STREET

Regent street has gained a reputation as one of the most original streets in London. Here you will find shops and boutiques where you can find a wide range of goods: clothes made in Great Britain, toys, food, various fabrics and many other products. Even if shopping isn't your thing, you can simply stroll down the street and admire the elegant displays.

The main highlight of Regent street is the popular department store Liberty's. A large selection of toys to suit every taste can be found at Hamleys. This store is a real paradise for children.

Tourists who have visited London more than once claim that there are also many shops on the neighboring streets (for example, Saville Row). However, high prices deter many buyers.

KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Knightsbridge is an area of ​​London that is popular among shopaholics. It is very rare to find company offices here, but there are shops on almost every corner. The only thing that can stop shopping fans is high prices.

It is worth noting that shopping in Knightsbridge is very prestigious. There are two legendary department stores here (we are talking about Harrod’s and Harvey Nichols). According to experts, these are some of the best shopping centers in the UK capital. But don’t entertain any illusions - only wealthy people can make purchases here.

A variety of modern shops line the streets of Knightsbridge. Therefore, a walk around the area can be combined with shopping. In local boutiques you can find items from famous brands and world-famous designers.

On Sloane Street you can look into the stores of Prada, Armani, Dior, etc. There is also a large Peter Jones store, where you can find a lot of interesting things. For exclusive lingerie, check out La Perla or Rigby & Peller.

COVENT GARDEN

According to experienced tourists, the Covent Garden area is a must-visit. In addition to shopping, you can find many interesting activities here. It is worth noting that this area of ​​London is historically associated with trade. Back in the Middle Ages, a monastic market was opened on the site of Covent Garden, which operated for several centuries.

One of the most unusual attractions of Covent Garden is the mimes that you can meet literally at every turn. This area is perfect place for shopping fans of all ages. Turning onto High Street you can visit French Connection, Mango, Oasis and other shops. It will be useful for men to look into men's clothing stores Diesel, Paul Smith, etc.

At Neal Street you can find quality shoes that will last you for years to come. In order to purchase new clothes, you can visit Office, Foot Locker, etc. To get to Neal Street, you need to turn left when you are near the Covent Garden metro station.

KING'S ROAD

King’s road is a street that locals and tourists associate with the underground culture of the last century. Here you can visit the famous store of Vivienne Westwood, who is a recognized designer and trendsetter of punk fashion.

The street is home to several popular boutiques, French Connection, Benetton, etc. In addition, you can visit Levi's and Johnsons stores, where you can buy vintage American goods. These boutiques sell unique items made in the spirit of the era of the 50s and 60s of the last century.

Shopping fans should also definitely check out Ben de Lisi’s. This boutique features stylish evening dresses for sale. For an elegant headdress, head to Philip Treacy. At Lulu Guinness's boutique you will find a large assortment of bags, many of which are made in a single copy.

PICCADILLY

Piccadilly Circus is one of the most famous and popular streets in the British capital. However, shopping lovers are unanimous: Piccadilly is inferior to Oxford Street in some respects.

It is worth noting that Piccadilly Street, which connects Hyde Park and Piccadilly Circus, was known back in the Middle Ages. True, in these ancient times it was called Portugal Street. In the 17th century, it was here that Robert Baker moved, who quickly became famous as a merchant of “picadils” - special collars with jagged edges on a rigid base. The dimensions of the product were adjusted using a wide cord.

Over the course of several centuries, the street developed at a rapid pace: over time, new buildings appeared on it. On at the moment Piccadilly Circus is one of the main streets of London. Locals They call it the cultural center of the city.

Tourists who want to buy tea, traditional sweets, dishes, gifts - perfumes, jewelry can go to Fortnum & Mason. Shopping lovers will not be able to miss the popular Simpsons store. You can buy new books at Hatchards and Waterstone's supermarkets.

It is also worth planning a visit to one of the most modern shopping centers in London - Westfield Shopping Center. There are 5 department stores on its territory: House of Fraser, Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, etc. In addition, more than 260 boutiques are at the complete disposal of customers, which regularly receive new arrivals. The stores offer goods from 15 countries for sale. The only negative in this case is the location of the center; it is not in the heart of London. There are very few historical places and monuments in this area, but here you can meet a whole army of shopping fans.

To get to the shopping centre, you can stop at Wood Lane or Shepherd's Bush tube station.

Contents of the article

Despite the fact that shopping in the UK can cost a pretty penny, it will still be much cheaper than here. “Fashionable” will talk about the advantages of shopping in this country, as well as their features.

Stylish and fashionable items at affordable prices. Going shopping in England is not only interesting, but also quite economical. As for clothing, there are enough shops of both simple mass brands and boutiques with unique designer works. For example, in large cities in England, including, you can find stores that sell designer clothes from as yet unknown artists. There are also many boutiques where you can find clothes from world famous brands, both American and European.

Clothing in regular sizes. England is a country where you can easily choose the right size for yourself, especially if you do not have a thin model figure.

Vintage. Great Britain is very popular for vintage shops and markets, where you can buy a variety of things, clothes and all kinds of second hand goods. If you're a fan, you should consider shopping in the UK.

Large cities are the concentration of many shops. Of course, in London there are a lot of representative offices of large companies, famous luxury boutiques and all kinds of shopping centers. In addition to the capital, Manchester, Liverpool, York, Newcastle, and Southampton can boast of such shopping diversity. Provincial towns also have shops, but there are significantly fewer of them than in large cities.

Supermarkets and spontaneous markets. Typically large supermarkets in England are located on the outskirts of cities. If you need to go shopping, it is better to do it at Sainsbury's, Tesco and Marks & Spencer, but it is better to buy seafood in Iceland.

The UK is known for its spontaneous markets, which suddenly appear and also disappear in city squares. And yet this schedule can be found on the official websites of the cities.

In English shops, prices are usually fixed, which cannot be said about markets - it's worth trying to bargain here. Despite the fact that local merchants do not like to haggle, if you find a seller with eastern roots, he will be able to give in on price.

Tax-free check. If you make purchases in this place for more than 30 pounds, you should definitely issue a tax-free check, which will be useful at customs.

Based on this receipt, the UK can return about 12 percent of purchases.
You can pay in Foggy Albion with cards from common payment systems, which are accepted almost everywhere.

Store opening hours


Typically, shops in England are open all week, except Sunday, from nine - half past ten in the morning to half past five - half past seven in the evening. Sometimes before major holidays their work can be extended until eight in the evening. Small retail outlets may close at lunchtime for a break. Convenience stores are found in major cities.

Large supermarkets are open all week from nine in the morning to eight in the evening, and on Sunday from ten to eleven in the morning until four to five in the afternoon.

Top shopping in the UK


1. Chocolate with the taste and shape of an orange - terry`s chocolate orange, a slice of which can be obtained by knocking on the delicacy.

2. Famous English cheeses, packaged in packs of 100 g, can be found in any store. You should definitely buy Blue Stilton blue cheese, the ancient variety Cheshire cheese, as well as Gloucester, Caerphilly and Wensleydale.

3. Despite the fact that English tea can be bought in every store, it is still better to purchase elite varieties, which are sold in special places “Whittard of Chelsea”. Usually such teas come in interesting packaging. For example, in the shape of a red double-decker bus, in tins with images of cities, famous people and scenes of their lives.

4. Porcelain dishes from England are a special purchase. In this country you can buy porcelain from Royal Doulton and Wedgwood. You can buy either a whole set or one mug. In any case, you will be extremely pleased with the design of the porcelain. The blue crystal tableware from Bristol Blue Crystal is also worth special attention.

5. You can get acquainted with local exotic food by tasting Marmite sandwich paste made from brewer's yeast with herbs and spices, which you can buy in a small jar.

6. Among alcoholic beverages, traditional ale of such varieties as Bitter, Porter, and Barley Wine will become very popular. The English drink is usually poured into Toby Jugs in the shape of interesting characters or celebrity figures. It is also worth trying the famous Scotch whiskey, which is a rather strong drink.

7. In memory of your trip to Edinburgh, you can buy a kilt and a blanket, but this is a rather expensive purchase.

8. Fans of Sherlock Holmes can visit his museum, where they can buy interesting souvenirs - caps, pipes, chess with characters from Conan Doyle's stories. The museum is located in London next to the Baker Street underground station.

9. An excellent gift for children would be Paddington Bear, figures of guardsmen or a police helmet.

Discounts and sales in the UK


In the UK, discounts on sales reach 70%, and sometimes prices can drop by two or three times. Typically, this is the period from the second half of November to February, the peak of which falls at the end of December-January, as well as from the second half of June to the end of summer (July is a “hot” time). You can find out about new prices on store websites.

Before the sale starts, come to the stores in advance, taking with you a sleeping bag and a thermos. And it’s not surprising, because most of the goods are sold out in the first days, and later there are not very popular items left.

However, if your visit to England did not fall during the sales period, you should not be upset, because in most stores small sales on last year’s collections continue all year round.

Sales do not pass by London either, which take place here twice a year - in the summer and in new year holidays. Discounts reach 50-75%.

Outlets in the UK


To find out where grand sales are taking place in England, you should check them out on the Designer Warehouse Sale website before your trip.
For example, DWS - a large London sale of women's and men's clothing occurs once a month and lasts several days. On the outskirts of London, a huge hangar displays products from several hundred stylish brands with discounts of up to 80%. At such an outlet it is possible to buy current items at reduced prices. These are, for example, outfits from fashion shows, things that clients did not pick up, and more.

In the UK there are also so-called sale villages. One of the most popular is located an hour's drive from the capital - Bicester Village, Oxfordshire, which belongs to the large Chic Outlet Shopping chain. There are more than 120 boutiques here, including Diesel, Hugo Boss, Dior, Fendi, Dolce & Gabbana.

There are large outlet centers of the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet network in the cities of Ashford, York, Cheshire, Bringend, and Swindon.

Another outlet, Dalton Park Outlet Shopping Centre, is located between Newcastle and Middlesbrough. The place is characterized by mid-priced stores, for example, Adidas, Marks & Spencer, Gap, Levis, Nike, Radley and others. There are about 60 boutiques in total, which offer products from two hundred brands with a discount of more than 50%.

Branded outlets are also common in England, which can be found on the websites of your favorite companies.

Shopping etiquette


Another good thing about shopping in the UK is that it is quite pleasant to be a buyer here. After all, the service here is at the highest level. If for any reason the purchased item does not suit you, it can be returned to the store without any problems. The main thing is the presence of tags and a receipt, and you don’t even need to mention the reason for the return.

In addition, in boutiques you can try on any items, except, in unlimited quantities. In other countries, on the contrary, it is usually allowed to take only up to four things into the fitting room. If the item you like does not fit the size, upon order it will be delivered to the specified address within the city.

British shoe stores offer an interesting service: at the entrance, guests are given a special number with a number. If the number matches the number that will be displayed on the display or the seller will call it, then he will be served in a queue and will be shown shoes until the client makes a choice. Surprisingly, with such a service, clients will not leave without new things.