We’re going to shop!
We’re headed for Bond Street. The most costly and sought-after real estate areas in Europe This haven of luxury has been the forefront of London’s high fashion scene since in the late 18th century. It is known for its luxurious shops, fashion labels, designer stores art galleries, antique and fine jewelry shops, Bond Street is the place to go for shopping with luxury. Therefore, without further delay this is all you must learn regarding Bond Street!
There is evidence that suggests Bond Street has been a historical London landmark since before the dawn of time. At at the very least, a Roman stone culvert found in 1894 confirms this. However, the street we see today was first created in the 17th century. In 1683, a group of Georgian investors, led by Sir Thomas Bond, the namesake of the street, purchased Clarendon House from the 2nd Duke of Albemarle and then demolished it to improve the area. The house was reconstructed and they constructed three roads: Albemarle, Dover and Bond Streets.
If you walk along the street today, you’ll be able to see that the street is split in two sections: Old New Bond and New Bond Streets. It’s due to the fact that Sir Thomas Bond built only half of his street initially. It was the New Bond bit was developed fourteen years later. Fun fact: In early 1920s the city council tried to combine the two into one Bond street, but the residents were not keen on it. Bond Street is still divided in two today and you can spot the division near Tiffany’s &Co’s flagship store.
In the early 1700s and the time when gorgeous Georgians paraded through the streets in London with their wigs that were powdered, anyone that claimed to represent a person must be photographed in Bond Street. Shop owners intentionally let people out of the upper levels to draw celebrities like Jonathan Swift, William Pitt the Elder Admiral Horatio-Nelson as well as George Selwyn. Even the infamously popular Georgiana Cavendish who was the Duchess Devonshire was a fan of its stores to those at Covent Garden.
In the 19th century, its fame as the most popular spot for the bourgeoisie to meet up began to diminish however, it managed to keep its status as the most luxurious retail place that we all are familiar with and enjoy to this day. As you can observe, there’s nothing that’s changed about Bond Street, which has maintained its style as it was a century ago.
Things to do on Bond Street
So, get your shoes that are comfortable because you’re going to be doing lots of walking and window shopping. Why wouldn’t you? Bond Street is home to some of the most famous stores such as Asprey, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Ralph Lauren and Tiffany & Co. Bond Street has had some spectacular display windows and shops.
Based on the order of the highest rank, let’s begin by examining Burlington Arcade. It was built around 1819, by Earl Burlington The arcade is where you will find the most prestigious antique jewellery stores as well as boutiques, shoe stores and other shops. In this arcade, which connects Bond Street to Piccadilly, there are shops like Carrie Bradshaw’s favorite, Manolo Blanik, and Laduree, a French pastry shop that sells the famous double-decker macarons. Also, here’s a fun fact about the area: Burlington Arcade is protected by the Beadles the oldest and the smallest Victorian uniformed guard force anywhere in the world!
Established in 1781, Asprey is regarded as the most renowned retailer of fine products. The flagship store, located on the address 167 New Bond Street, was established in the 1830s and is among the oldest stores on the street. In Asprey, you can find anything from exquisite jewellery, including rare colored diamonds, to highest quality silver and china.
Don’t be deceived by its contemporary design, department stores Fenwick (63 New Bond Street) has been catering to Bond Street’s extremely sophisticated customers since 1890. From home decors to highly priced makeup the “brilliantly British” store has everything. The department store is also king to wacky window displays and seasonally-appropriate entrance decor.
Louis Vuitton, found at 20 New Bond Street, doesn’t shun the flamboyant decor also. It’s a must-have on every shopping list of the most discerning and we can’t forget the French designer of the luxury handbags. In addition, its vibrant facade is a perfect Instagram photo opportunity. Honorable mentions include those of the Ralph Lauren mansion at 1 New Bond Street; the Victoria’s Secret London flagship store located at the 111 New Bond Street with its amazing crystal staircase that is Instagram-worthy And Cartier located at 175 New Bond Street, whose festive decor is possibly the most stunning one of the entire Bond Street.
Bond Street and its surroundings are also home to an impressive collection of Royal Warranties, including the official queen’s underpants supplier Rigby & Peller, found close to Bond Street at 22A Conduit Street.
It’s not all about the shopping scene in Bond Street! If you’re a fan of art out there, the world-renowned auction house Sotheby’s has its London headquarters located at 35 New Bond Street. You can find art for sale in exhibits and, if you’re looking for a daily dose of drama, you could also attend auctions without cost. Nearby to Sotheby’s is the Royal Academy of Arts, where you can view the latest art exhibits and other events.
If you’re in need of some time to unwind from the walking, make a stop to conversation or a chat with Roosevelt as well as Churchill himself on the Allies statue that is located close to Asprey. The two old guys are always having the time of their lives engaged in a constant conversation that seems to be quite enjoyable. They also show their best smiles for your photographs!
Then, last not least, be sure to stop at Claridge’s Hotel , located on Brook Street. It doesn’t matter if you’re stopping to enjoy a cup of tea (more about this in a minute!) or to see the latest stars who visit the city the hotel is a must-see landmark of London’s Mayfair as well as Bond Street areas. The Claridge’s is particularly beautiful during Christmas, so be sure you go to the hotel and marvel at the Christmas decorations with all its glory.
When should you go to Bond Street
If you’re planning to go shopping The one thing you need to be aware of when you visit Bond Street is the stores opening hours. In general, all of the Bond Street shops are open from between 10am and 7pm, Monday through Saturday, and from 12pm to 6:30 pm on Sundays. Burlington Arcade, on the contrary is open daily until 8pm. The Royal Academy of Arts is accessible from 10am until six o’clock (except on Fridays, when the museum is open until 10pm). Apart from that it’s an ideal time to go to Bond Street — just be aware that it’s among the most crowded roads in London and is likely to be packed with visitors every day of the week.
The time of Christmas can be the perfect time to go to Bond Street, as the stunning Christmas decorations along with the window display are a total pleasure for the eyes. We suggest visiting Bond Street after sundown to take in the Christmas lighting in all its glory!
Bars, restaurants and bars close to Bond Street
The shopping spree must have caused you to be hungry however, you’re in Mayfair and there’s numerous options to choose from. There’s nothing like drinking the perfect cup of tea to revive your spirits after a day of shopping. Luckily, Mayfair is the home of some of the finest evening teas you can find in London. Visit the posh Claridge’s restaurant or The Ritz to enjoy an evening tea brimming with glitter and glamour and then head over for Fortnum and Mason on Piccadilly Street for the traditional of teas for afternoons.
If quality dining in a stylish location is what you’re looking for the best option is to go there to sketch. The restaurant that is awe-inspiringly pink is the top of the crop in Mayfair dining! From Michelin-starred dining to evening drinks, there are many options to fit your needs at sketch.
Berkeley Square’s new expansion, Amazonico, serves excellent exotic and exotic meals that promise to transport you through the Amazon river as well as South America. Another excellent option if seeking the absolute most exquisite of Mayfair’s fine dining.
However, if you’re looking to see the historic side of Bond Street, you should go to The Guinea for a pint. It’s been located in 30 Bruton Place since 1423, it’s one of the oldest pubs in London. If you’re looking for a night out Why not have some of the popular (and slightly pricey) steaks?