Oxford Street is one of the city's most iconic shopping destinations, famed for its vast array of shops, luxury boutiques, and department stores like Selfridges. It attracts millions of shoppers from all over the world, popular because of its central location and unbeatable retail.
Rich in history
Oxford Street has a long and fascinating history, evolving from a humble road into one of the world’s most famous shopping streets. Its origins date back to Roman times when it served as a key route from the city of Londinium to the west. In the 12th century, it was known as Tyburn Road, leading to the notorious Tyburn Gallows, where public executions were held until the 18th century. By the late 1700s, London was expanding and gentrifying and Oxford Street began to transform into a more prestigious area, lined with Georgian homes and attracting affluent residents.
By the 19th century, the street had shifted from residential to commercial, with the arrival of shops and department stores. This transition solidified its reputation as a shopping destination, attracting both locals and visitors. Selfridges opened in 1909, and marked a turning point for Oxford Street, ushering in an era of large-scale retail establishments. Other renowned stores, including John Lewis and Debenhams, soon followed, making Oxford Street a central hub for fashion, home goods, and luxury shopping.
Today, Oxford Street is famous for its unparalleled selection of shops, offering everything from high-street brands like Zara, H&M, and Topshop to flagship stores for global retailers. Not to mention a very wholesome Christmas lights display in the winter months.
Things to do in Oxford Street
More than just a shopping destination, Oxford Street is surrounded by a wealth of attractions and activities that make it an essential stop for anyone exploring central London, with so many wonderful things to keep you busy:
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Selfridges: One of the most iconic department stores in the world, Selfridges is an essential stop on Oxford Street. Beyond its extensive collection of fashion, beauty, and home goods, the store offers unique experiences such as pop up exhibitions, interactive art installations, and even rooftop dining. Selfridges is a destination in itself, blending luxury shopping with cutting-edge cultural experiences.
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The Photographer's Gallery: Just off Oxford Street, this gallery is a must visit for photographers or those who appreciate the arts. The Photographers' Gallery hosts contemporary exhibitions and retrospectives from some of the most innovative and influential photographers in the world. With its blend of fine art and documentary photography, the gallery provides a creative break from the shopping crowds.
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Regent Street: Located just off Oxford Street, Regent Street is renowned for its elegant architecture and luxury shopping. Flagship stores like Hamleys (the world’s oldest toy store), Liberty London, and Burberry draw visitors to this upscale shopping district. Regent Street is also famous for its seasonal decorations, especially during the Christmas period.
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Carnaby Street: For something more quirky and offbeat, Carnaby Street, located just behind Oxford Circus, is a trendy shopping and dining area known for its independent boutiques, fashion-forward brands, and unique eateries. With its rich history dating back to the swinging 60s, it’s the perfect spot for those looking for something a little different from the high-street giants.
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Soho: Just a short walk from Oxford Street, Soho offers a vibrant mix of restaurants, bars, theatres, and nightlife. It’s a great place to explore after a day of shopping, whether you want to grab a bite to eat at one of its many independent eateries or enjoy a drink in one of its legendary pubs. Soho is also home to some of London’s best theatres, making it perfect for catching a West End show.
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Hyde Park: At the western end of Oxford Street near Marble Arch, Hyde Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle. One of London’s largest and most famous green spaces, Hyde Park is perfect for a relaxing stroll, a boat ride on the Serpentine, or even a visit to the Serpentine Galleries for a touch of contemporary art.
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The Wallace Collection: Just north of Oxford Street in Manchester Square, the Wallace Collection is a hidden gem. This free museum is housed in a stunning 18th century mansion and features an impressive collection of art, including Old Master paintings, decorative arts, and armoury. It’s a quiet, cultural escape amidst the shopping frenzy.
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Bond Street: For high end luxury shopping, Bond Street is only a short walk from Oxford Street. Here, you’ll find flagship stores from top designers like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. Bond Street is also home to numerous art galleries, making it the ideal place for those with a taste for fine art and luxury fashion.
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The London Palladium: One of London’s most famous theatres, the London Palladium is located just off Oxford Street on Argyll Street. It has hosted some of the world’s most famous performers and continues to showcase top-tier musical theatre, concerts, and live entertainment.
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St. Christopher’s Place: Hidden just off Oxford Street, St. Christopher’s Place offers a charming escape with its narrow, cobbled streets lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a quieter alternative to the hustle of Oxford Street, perfect for a leisurely lunch or a relaxing coffee break.
Restaurants near Oxford Street
When visiting the illustrious Oxford Street, a visit to Corrigan's Mayfair should also be on the cards. A remarkable dining destination near Oxford Street, Corrigan’s Mayfair offers a refined culinary experience that’s perfect for those seeking a sophisticated retreat after a day of exploring London’s iconic shopping street.
Located just a short walk from the bustling crowds of Oxford Street, Corrigan’s is an award winning restaurant that perfectly balances luxury, comfort, and innovation in its food, drinks, and service. Opened in 2008 by renowned chef Richard Corrigan, Corrigan’s Mayfair quickly garnered critical acclaim, including accolades such as London Restaurant of the Year by the Evening Standard in its first year of opening. It has maintained its prestigious standing, proudly holding three AA Rosettes and consistently featuring among the top entries in the National Restaurant Awards.
Chef Richard Corrigan’s deep connection to his rural Irish upbringing is at the heart of Corrigan’s Mayfair. This influence shines through in the menu, which draws inspiration from traditional British and Irish cuisine, with a modern twist. Seasonal produce is at the core of every dish, with Chef Corrigan working closely with local suppliers to ensure that only the freshest, highest quality ingredients are used. The menu evolves with the seasons, making each dining experience unique and reflective of the time of year. This dedication to seasonality ensures that flavours are vibrant, fresh, and deeply connected to the land and sea.
Corrigan’s culinary artistry is evident in every dish, with an emphasis on bold, hearty flavours and elegant presentation. Starters like the Chicken Liver and Foie Gras Terrine offer a rich and indulgent beginning, while mains such as Roasted Guinea Fowl and Hampshire Fallow Deer showcase the restaurant’s ability to blend robust, earthy flavours with delicate touches. Beyond the food, Corrigan’s Mayfair also offers an exceptional drinks menu that perfectly complements the dining experience. The bar is stocked with a wide range of wines, champagnes, and spirits, each chosen to enhance the flavours of the menu. The wine list spans the globe, featuring an impressive variety of reds, whites, rosés, and dessert wines, while the champagne selection includes prestigious labels like Paul Déthune Ambonnay Grand Cru and Ruinart Blanc de Blancs. For those who prefer cocktails, the expertly crafted options, such as the Negroni Chinato and the French 75, offer a refreshing and sophisticated start or finish to your meal.
Truly, Corrigan’s Mayfair is more than just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of seasonal British and Irish ingredients, culinary craftsmanship, and an exceptional dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch, a formal dinner, or a special occasion, Corrigan’s offers a peaceful haven near Oxford Street, where quality and attention to detail are paramount. For anyone looking to indulge in world class cuisine and drinks in an elegant setting, Corrigan’s Mayfair is the perfect destination.