Written by Menswear Style
in
Travel
on the
2nd August 2025
London is often seen as a global capital of style, cuisine, and culture, but to truly understand the heart of the city, you have to shop like a local. Beyond the iconic department stores and designer boutiques of the West End lies a thriving network of neighbourhood markets, independent shops, hidden arcades, and lifestyle hubs that offer more than just things to buy—they offer stories, communities, and authentic experiences.
Whether you’re a visitor hoping to avoid tourist traps or a Londoner in search of fresh inspiration, this guide highlights where locals go for fashion, food, and those surprising finds that make a city feel personal.
Fashion Beyond the High Street
It’s no secret that Londoners have an instinctive flair for fashion. But instead of sticking to big-name retailers on Oxford Street or Regent Street, many prefer to hunt for unique pieces in lesser-known enclaves and creative neighbourhoods.
Shoreditch and Brick Lane are where streetwear, vintage, and independent labels flourish. Explore Boxpark, a pop-up shopping mall made from shipping containers, where local designers and emerging fashion brands showcase collections you won’t find elsewhere. Stroll down Cheshire Street for hand-picked vintage coats, 90s denim, and handmade jewellery.
Peckham has also become a go-to for the fashion-forward crowd. Rye Lane’s buzzing atmosphere is home to vibrant African textiles, quirky thrift stores, and contemporary concept shops. It’s not about dressing to impress here—it’s about dressing with purpose and individuality.
Then there’s the ever-evolving East London staple: Broadway Market. Held on Saturdays, it blends fashion, food, and art. Amidst the organic produce and craft beer stalls, you’ll spot cutting-edge accessories and independent clothing brands with cult followings.
But if you’re after a balance between local charm and major brands, Lakeside Shopping Centre is a smart choice. Situated just outside central London in Essex, it’s a favourite with in-the-know Londoners looking for everything in one place—high street favourites, stylish eateries, and homegrown pop-ups all under one roof.
Where Locals Really Eat
Forget the tourist-touted chains—real London eats are tucked away in local markets, food halls, and unassuming side streets.
Start with Brixton Village, where cuisine from around the world is served with bold, soulful character. Jamaican jerk chicken, Ethiopian coffee, and Colombian empanadas share space with artisanal bakeries and natural wine bars. This isn’t fine dining—it’s better: it’s food with feeling.
In Camden Market, amidst the vintage jackets and handcrafted candles, is one of London’s most eclectic collections of street food. Korean fried chicken, loaded vegan burgers, Turkish gözleme—it’s all there, sizzling and served hot.
For something a bit more polished but still locally loved, try Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey. It’s compact, charming, and frequented by those who prefer charcuterie boards, cheese toasties with raclette, and small-batch gins to fast food. The railway arches add an industrial-chic backdrop to the gourmet experience.
And for locals in East London or Essex seeking good eats in a comfortable, modern setting, Lakeside Shopping Centre again delivers. With everything from family-friendly chains to elevated dining spots, it’s a culinary destination for every mood and craving. Its convenient layout, ample parking, and diverse food court mean locals often swing by for a stress-free lunch or dinner, especially on the weekends.
Where to Score Unique Finds
Shopping in London isn’t just about clothes or food—it’s also about stumbling upon that perfect one-off: a vintage record, a hand-thrown ceramic mug, a niche skincare product, or a mid-century coffee table.
Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is beloved for a reason. Fridays and Saturdays bring antique dealers, art prints, vintage furniture, and collectors from all over. Arrive early to beat the crowds, and stay for the local cafés lining the road—each one a character in its own right.
For artsy finds and design inspiration, Coal Drops Yard in King’s Cross is a must. Its architecture alone is worth the visit, but the boutiques inside—from Japanese stationery to handmade homewares—are where creatives go to shop and be inspired.
Then there’s Greenwich Market, a charming mix of traditional crafts and modern design. From leather-bound journals to bespoke clothing, it’s one of those rare places where everything feels curated but accessible. It’s especially ideal if you’re gift hunting.
And for those who love browsing a well-organised mix of fashion, home, and tech finds, Lakeside Shopping Centre offers both mainstream ease and local charm. It’s more than just a mall—it’s a lifestyle hub. You’ll often see families, groups of friends, and solo browsers enjoying the spacious layout and lively atmosphere. Its variety of stores makes it easy to shop for multiple needs in one visit—whether it’s a new outfit, a birthday gift, or some indulgent self-care items.
Final Thoughts
To shop like a local in London is to see beyond the obvious. It’s walking a little further, asking questions, striking up a chat with a stallholder, and venturing into new boroughs. It’s knowing when to spend the day browsing vintage records in Soho and when to head somewhere like Lakeside Shopping Centre for a reliable, all-in-one experience that doesn’t compromise on quality or variety.
Ultimately, whether you’re after standout style, satisfying eats, or something a little unexpected, London has it—if you know where to look. So lace up your walking shoes, bring your tote bag, and get ready to shop the city not like a tourist, but like someone who’s always belonged.