When you think about shopping in London, Greenwich might not be your go-to place. But, with its eclectic market serving up all sorts of independent and boutique delights, it’s definitely an area worth putting on your shopping list.
Inside Greenwich Market (Photo: Garry Knight via Flickr)
Greenwich Market
Packed full of colourful vintage wares, boutique stores, and independent traders, Greenwich Market is the place to go to pick up something a little bit different. Known around town for its hearty collection of designer makers, you can pick up a one-of-a-kind present for a friend, or simply trawl through the racks of one-off clothing. Outside the shops, soak up the cultural atmosphere in the continental food court which boasts more than 120 arts, crafts, and antique stalls piled high with curiosities.
5b Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
Gekko
Though it started out as a charming little stall in Camden Market, Gekko has evolved into a whole other beast entirely. Found in the cultural perimeters of Greenwich Market, it serves up magical collections of couture clothing that are often inspired by the mysteries and legends of forest life – think elves, fairies, and pixies if you’re struggling for a visual. It’s the perfect pit stop if you’re on the hunt for something out there, like festival wear or a new bohemian wardrobe.
10 Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
The stylish interior of Things British (Photo: via Things British)
Things British
Get your Great British on in this trendy market shop that sells all sorts of unique gifts that celebrate everything to do with the Great British flag. Set down a cobbled alleyway brimming with artisan shops, it oozes a stylish boutique feel, with white shelves parading colourful goods in all shapes and sizes. Admire the selection of crafts made by Great British makers, from cards, canvas bags, and scarves, to prints, games, and photo frames. Keep your eyes peeled for the royal blue shop front that keeps everything on brand.
7 Turnpin Ln, London SE10 9JA
Paul Rhodes Bakery
All that shopping has probably got you hungry, which means a trip to the Paul Rhodes Bakery is on the cards. Serving a mouth-watering selection of brightly coloured pastries and lovingly crafted sandwiches, it’s enough to lure in anyone with a semblance of a sweet tooth. Pick up a coffee while you’re doing the rounds, or simply gawp at the extensive dessert range – we’re talking thick yellow lemon meringue cake, moist chocolate muffins, a whole host of cookies, and the signature “Princess” cake.
37 King William Walk, London SE10 9HU
The shopfront of jewellery shop Autumn and May (Photo: Visit Greenwich via Flickr)
Autumn and May
Founded and run by a family team – mother and daughter, Dorothy Thomas and Sarah Hardon – Autumn and May is one of Greenwich’s literal gems. Sporting a sophisticated interior décor that sets off the glint of diamonds and crystals, it’s a jewellery store well worth a visit. Inside, you can browse the cosy range of designs that span numerous trends and designers, such as Shaune Leane and Andrew Geoghegan. It’s a particularly important stop for anyone looking to buy a ring for a special someone.
9 Greenwich Market, London SE10 9HZ
Meet Bernard
Founded back in 2005, Meet Bernard was the brainchild of Laura and Ben, a fashion-focused duo who wanted to offer men somewhere to buy high-end clothes that didn’t require them to traipse to the West End. Their baby has grown into somewhat of a cult hit, where they source original brands that ooze good value. Expect an ever-changing rotation of racks promising stylish statement pieces that are always bang on trend. Perfect if you’re looking for a one-off piece that screams London fashion.
23 Nelson Rd, London SE10 9JB
Outside the clothes shop, Meet Bernard (Photo: via Meet Bernard)
360 Degrees Vintage
Step back in time in this cosy shop that sells beautiful vintage wears spanning from the 1920s until the 1980s. Wander the plush collection of racks that spill over with faux fur coats, button-down hats, and trench coats that may or may not have just stepped out of a detective novel. Give yourself ample time to finger through the eclectic selection of clothes here, as there might just be a one-off gem hiding out of sight. 360 Degrees Vintage is well-known for its fantastic collection of scarves, too, so have a word with the cashier if you can’t see any out on display.
3/3a Greenwich Market, Greenwich, SE10 9HZ
Bullfrogs
Bullfrogs has an interesting and not entirely conforming backstory. Opened originally as a vegetarian coffee bar in 1989, it went on to open its very first shoe store in the early 90s – quite a change, right? But it excelled in its new niche and went on to win “Best Young Fashion Footwear Retailer of the Year” in 2007. Now, it’s a firm favourite with Greenwich locals, who pop in to pick up well-known brands as well as some of the more obscure offerings.
2 Church Street, Greenwich, London SE10 9BJ
The cute exterior of Beadoir (Photo: via Beadoir)
Beadoir
Beadoir is a bit of a jack of all trades. It’s known for its extensive collection of bead designs, as well as individual beads that are perfect for making your own jewellery, but it also runs a selection of fun bead-making classes where you can put your buys into action. Browse the selection of pre-made designs by the likes of Abby Hering, who creates vibrant necklaces and bracelets, and Pluto, a Swedish, family-run company that produce incredible jeweled home decorations.
12B Turnpin Ln, London SE10 9JA
Johnny Rocket
We’re sticking to jewellery with Johnny Rocket, one of the finest gem designers in Greenwich. Doubling up as an atmospheric jewel-based gallery, the store is the place to go for bespoke, handmade pieces. Trawl the displays that range from fun and daring to sophisticated and exotic – there really is something for everyone. The stylish and oh-so-London interior provides the perfect backdrop for transporting yourself to a more opulent era, where diamonds twinkle in the low-light and a range of UK designer favourites promise something beautiful to look at.
62 Eglinton Hill, London SE18 3NR