London is not only one of the most iconic cities in the world but also home to some of the oldest retail establishments that have stood the test of time. Many of these historic shops are situated in the prestigious Mayfair and St James’s areas, providing a glimpse into the capital’s rich commercial heritage. With centuries of experience, these establishments continue to attract locals and tourists alike, offering exceptional craftsmanship and exclusive British goods.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the 10 oldest shops in London, listed from oldest to newest. Each of these shops holds a special place in British history, some with Royal Warrants, symbolising their prestigious connection to the Royal Family.
Lock & Co Hatters (1676) – The World’s Oldest Hat Shop
Founded in 1676, Lock & Co Hatters holds the distinction of being the oldest hat shop in the world. Situated at No. 6 St James’s Street, this venerable institution has been crafting hats for some of the most illustrious individuals in British history, including Winston Churchill and Admiral Lord Nelson. Lock & Co is synonymous with British elegance, offering a wide range of high-quality hats, from bowler hats to trilbies.
Lock & Co has remained committed to the traditional craftsmanship that has made it a world-renowned brand. The shop is a treasure trove of hat-making expertise, where each piece is meticulously designed and crafted to perfection. Stepping inside this shop is like stepping into a piece of London’s fashion heritage.
Berry Brothers & Rudd (1698) – Wine and Spirit Merchant
Located at No. 3 St James’s Street, Berry Brothers & Rudd has been trading since 1698, making it one of the oldest wine and spirit merchants in the world. With over three centuries of expertise, this esteemed establishment has supplied fine wines and spirits to some of the world’s most discerning clientele, including members of the British aristocracy and Royal Family.
This historic shop boasts an incredible range of wines and spirits, from rare vintages to contemporary favourites. Berry Brothers & Rudd continues to maintain its position as a leader in the industry by combining tradition with a commitment to innovation. A visit here offers not only the chance to purchase exceptional bottles but also to explore their fascinating history, with original scales and ledgers still on display.
Fortnum & Mason (1707) – A Luxury Department Store
A household name in the world of luxury retail, Fortnum & Mason was established in 1707 by William Fortnum and Hugh Mason. Located in Piccadilly, it has become a symbol of British luxury, providing a wide array of fine foods, teas, and exclusive hampers. The shop holds multiple Royal Warrants, a testament to its excellence in serving the British Royal Family.
Stepping inside Fortnum & Mason is an experience in itself. From the grand marble floors to the carefully curated displays of gourmet treats, every aspect of this iconic store exudes sophistication. Their famous afternoon tea is a quintessential British experience, offering visitors a taste of Fortnum’s unrivalled legacy in culinary delights.
Twinings (1706) – The World’s Oldest Tea Shop
Tea has long been a cornerstone of British culture, and no shop encapsulates this better than Twinings, established in 1706. Situated at 216 Strand, Twinings remains the oldest tea shop in the world, continuing its legacy of blending and selling premium teas for over 300 years.
With a collection of over 500 teas from around the world, Twinings has transformed tea drinking into an art form. Visitors can explore the Tea Museum, where they can learn about the fascinating history of tea in Britain and the role Twinings played in shaping its popularity. A stop at Twinings is a must for any tea lover seeking to delve into the rich heritage of British tea culture.
Floris (1730) – Perfume and Fragrance Shop
Founded in 1730 by Juan Famenias Floris, Floris is London’s oldest family-run perfume and fragrance house. Situated at 89 Jermyn Street, this shop has been crafting bespoke fragrances for the elite, including notable figures like Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale. Floris is one of the few establishments in London to have received a Royal Warrant for perfumery.
Stepping inside Floris is like entering a world of olfactory luxury, where traditional perfume-making techniques blend with modern innovations. Their elegant shop displays a stunning array of perfumes, lotions, and candles, all meticulously crafted to the highest standards. The timeless appeal of Floris lies in its commitment to quality and its dedication to British heritage.
James J. Fox (1787) – Cigar and Tobacco Shop
Located on St James’s Street, James J. Fox has been a haven for cigar enthusiasts since its inception in 1787. As London’s oldest cigar shop, it has served Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, and many other famous patrons. With its long history, James J. Fox is much more than just a shop; it is an institution dedicated to fine cigars and tobacco products.
The shop houses a fascinating museum showcasing vintage cigars, original memorabilia, and even Churchill’s cigar ledger. This establishment has kept the art of cigar making alive, offering aficionados an unparalleled selection of the world’s finest cigars in an atmosphere that radiates Old World charm.
D.R. Harris (1790) – Apothecary and Grooming Products
For more than two centuries, D.R. Harris has provided pharmaceutical and grooming products to London’s elite. Established in 1790, this Mayfair-based apothecary continues to serve high-quality products ranging from shaving creams to colognes and soaps. Royal Warrants from Queen Elizabeth II and the Prince of Wales are proof of its esteemed reputation.
D.R. Harris has evolved with the times while maintaining its focus on traditional methods of production. Their shop at 29 St James’s Street remains a destination for those who appreciate luxury in grooming, with a range of products that are still made using classic techniques.
Hatchards (1797) – The UK’s Oldest Bookshop
Founded in 1797, Hatchards is the UK’s oldest bookshop, located in the heart of Piccadilly. This literary treasure trove has hosted some of the greatest writers and thinkers in history, including Oscar Wilde, Lord Byron, and J.K. Rowling. With its antique wood-panelled shelves and impressive selection of rare and contemporary books, Hatchards is a book lover’s dream.
The shop’s iconic address at 187 Piccadilly continues to attract visitors from around the world. Hatchards has long been a cornerstone of London’s literary culture, offering an extensive collection of fiction, non-fiction, and special editions that reflect its commitment to the world of literature.
Henry Poole & Co (1806) – The Tailor on Savile Row
Founded in 1806, Henry Poole & Co is credited with the creation of the modern tuxedo and remains one of the most prestigious bespoke tailors on Savile Row. This legendary establishment has dressed kings, presidents, and celebrities, providing them with impeccably crafted garments made from the finest materials.
Henry Poole’s expertise in tailoring is world-renowned, offering a true bespoke experience where every garment is individually made to measure. Their continued dedication to craftsmanship has kept them at the forefront of the luxury tailoring industry for over two centuries.
James Smith & Sons (1830) – Umbrella Shop
Established in 1830, James Smith & Sons is the world’s oldest umbrella shop, situated at 53 New Oxford Street. Known for its impeccable craftsmanship, the shop specialises in handcrafted umbrellas and walking sticks, many of which are made using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Visitors to James Smith & Sons are transported back in time as they browse through the beautifully displayed collection of umbrellas, each made from the finest materials. Their commitment to quality and durability ensures that they remain the leading name in luxury umbrellas.
These historic shops represent the heart and soul of London’s retail legacy, offering timeless products that reflect the British tradition of craftsmanship and quality. A visit to any of these shops is an opportunity to experience London’s past while enjoying exceptional goods that remain just as relevant today as they were centuries ago.
