My London Shopping

Hit the Shops in London

2011-10-29T20:52:00.002+01:00

By Victoria Cochrane

Are you a shopaholic? Many people are - even if we don't always like to admit it. We all have our own particular brand of shop that we like to frequent though. For some people there is nothing better than going from one clothes shop to another, meanwhile other people love to shop around for new additions to place in their homes.

But no matter what type of shop you like best, you are bound to find it in London. The bustling capital is brimming over with a huge selection of shops both large and small. You've got the huge department stores like Harrods, and the plethora of small shops that are both quirky and welcoming too.

One of the best places to go if you like a touch of the unique is Covent Garden. You can visit a traditional toy shop here, and there is also a shop dedicated to astrology and everything concerned with it. Covent Garden is particularly popular due to offering a lot of different shops all in one attractive location; but there are other popular spots in London too, not least of which is the West End.

Many people automatically think of the theatre when they consider the West End. But in fact it is also a great place to spend some serious cash. Oxford Street is one of the most famous streets in the West End, and it is lined with shops of all descriptions that will appeal to the most dedicated of shoppers.

If you want a taste of the more expensive shops in London, the West End can also offer you the price tags of Bond Street. You might only want to window shop here, but even walking down the street takes you into another area of shopping altogether.

Of course, some stores command your attention more than others, and no one comes to London without taking a look on the many floors which make up Harrods. You can buy virtually anything you want in this luxury top end store. In fact, it is almost like several shops all in one.

With all these shops and many more on offer to explore and spend your way around, it isn't surprising that some people choose to turn a shopping trip into a weekend away. It is good to know that there are plenty of hotels in London close to all the best shops, which provide the perfect base for a shopping spree weekend.

So the next time you have a weekend free and you feel the need to treat yourself to a few things, you may find that London is able to offer you the ultimate shopping experience that you are after.

Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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Great Finds for Authentic Vintage London Fashion ( video )

2011-10-12T22:04:00.005+01:00

By Kermit Chandler

London is famously expensive for everything from taking the Tube to the traditional English brunch. Shopping is expensive in London, as is getting around. If you were in the market for vintage clothing though where would you place your chances of finding a good deal, plenty of choice and shopping satisfaction in a city such as London with a reputation for expensive deals? With a little planning done to lead your way, you'd be surprised at the number of places that can turn up with a good deal.

The Salvation Army may not be the first place you think of to associate in your mind with London fashion. But the store they run on Princess Street near Oxford Circus in the heart of London, offers such great deals, practically no one shopping there seems actually poor. Try this outlet any day of the week except Sundays. In keeping with the poverty theme, try Oxfam's charity shop on Kingsland Road in Dalston. It's the Walmart of antique London fashion, and it's all packed into such a huge warehouse, you might need a map to get around. Fortunately, the choices in vintage London fashion on offer here make it worth your while taking the trouble to keep track of your bearings. Prices here start at less than five dollars, and there is every kind of vintage high-fashion on display.

If you ever wanted to visit a real London institution that hadn't yet caught on with the tourists, shopping for vintage London fashion on Brick Lane has to be a real treat. This little treasure of a find is a whole street filled with stores that sell clothing from a bygone era - at prices that seem to belong to a vintage era themselves. Every day of the week, save for Saturdays, fashion fiends in on the secret, throng Brick Lane to find surprise deals on a variety of clothing from stores that line the whole street and provide an atmosphere like you never would expect.

There are even regular fairs for London fashion held at certain appointed places at regular intervals. Try the London Vintage Fashion Fair, one of the most popular monthly affairs of this kind around, at the Hammersmith town hall. You'll find fashions here from 100 years ago and surprisingly, it isn't difficult to find stuff in good condition. The location of the sale, the Hammersmith Town Hall on King Street is itself an antique place that makes the perfect backdrop to this wonderful institution.

There are vintage clothing outlets all over London - Portobello Road, Crystal Palace, lots of great places where you can soak in the London atmosphere and shop off for clothing at the same time. It's a terrific way to experience London.

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London Vacation: Safety Tips for Tourists in London

2011-10-12T12:58:00.002+01:00

By Constance Parker-Street

For being such a large and diverse city, London can be a relatively safe environment for American vacationers and their families. Each year, millions of tourists visit England's capital city without incident, although there are definitely things you can do to increase your chances of having an incident-free holiday.

Street crime such as purse-snatching and pick pocketing occur in any major urban area, and London's no exception. A good rule of thumb is to keep your belongings in front of you, and never behind you (never in a back pocket or slung over your shoulder where you cannot see). At night, it's always best to stay together and keep to well-lit, well-traveled streets. It's also safest to use licensed taxi cabs instead of mini-cabs. While they may be cheaper, and while the majority of mini-cab drivers are completely honorable and trustworthy, crimes have been reported in the past by passengers who have been assaulted or robbed by undocumented drivers.

Because the theater is so popular in London's West End, many con artists take advantage of naive tourists with promises of good prices on theater or concert tickets (or perhaps seats to a popular sold-out show). Instead of trusting these ticket touts, it's wise to always deal directly with the theater box office, your hotel concierge, or the TKTS booth in Leicester Square.

If you're staying in a hotel or bed-and-breakfast, keep your keys with you at all times and always make certain that the door to your room is shut tightly behind you. Always use the safes provided for your valuables, and force yourself to lock up valuables or keep them with you - regardless of how tired you may be or how safe you feel. Of course, it's never a good idea to leave your bags unattended for any period of time, whether you're in your hotel lobby, at the airport, the train station, or in a cab. Tourists can be easy victims of theft and, in this age of increased terrorism, perhaps worse.

Remember that emergency services can be reached free of charge anywhere in the U.K. by dialing 999. You don't want to delay police and fire professionals by dialing 911 by habit.

Finally, and maybe most importantly, always look both ways before crossing the street! While tourists may get used to seeing drivers on the wrong side of the road, they often forget to look the "wrong way" before stepping out into the street and accidents have occurred.

By reviewing some of these safety tips before you leave the States, you'll feel more confident that you and your family will be safe and happy during your London vacation.

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London Vacation: Bookstores in Charing Cross Road

2011-10-12T10:26:00.004+01:00

If you're an avid reader or book lover traveling to London, your visit will not be complete until you've visited Charing Cross Road in the West End. There are many small independent shops located here and along the adjacent side streets, and there are three large stores that could easily fill an entire day's worth of browsing and buying.

Foyle's is the city's second largest bookshop, founded in 1903 and located at 113-119 Charing Cross Road since 1906. Its five floors are divided into over fifty different specialty departments including a wonderful children's section (which was recently shortlisted for the 2006 Walker Books Children's Independent of the Year award). While you can find DVDs and CDs here as well, Foyle's is best known for their wide range of books on every topic. Their staff are extremely knowledgeable and willing to help. One of the more recent additions to Foyle's (and now a highlight) is Ray's Jazz, a specialty music shop and café located within the massive store. Ray's Jazz also features free concert events.

While the Borders chain is well known here in America, there is a large branch located at 122 Charing Cross Road. Open seven days a week, it houses all the items you'd expect from Borders: all manner of books, audio books and magazines, DVDs and CDs, gifts and games, and a coffee shop. The only thing giving away this store's location is the accents of the employees and shoppers; otherwise, you could be in any major US city. Of course, there are still many books to be found that are not published or easily obtained here at home, and that's what you can spend hours searching for during your visit here.

Blackwell, at 100 Charing Cross Road, refers to itself as "the knowledge retailer." While having less charm and history than Foyle's, and without the same comfortable feeling as Borders, Blackwell is still a large and welcoming store which earned the Chain Bookseller of the Year Award back in 1999. They have large textbook sections for medical and computer students, but there are still many books - including a strong section of London photo, history and travel books - for the average reader.

Book signing events occur regularly at all of these establishments, so be sure to check the schedules when you arrive. Finally, as you leave the area, stop by 84 Charing Cross Road. The address, made famous by writer Helene Hanff in her book (subsequently made into a movie starring Anthony Hopkins and Anne Bancroft), is sadly no longer the home of booksellers Marks and Co., but a plaque hangs to commemorate the site. "84 Charing Cross Road" is the story of an outspoken New York writer and a low-key London bookseller who carry on a 20-year correspondence.

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Exploring London Jewellers for Vintage Jewelry From Various Eras ( video )

2011-10-11T13:46:00.007+01:00

If you are looking for something a little different in jewelry, you may want to look into purchasing estate jewelry. Jewellery shops in London, Ontario offer some great vintage jewelry options. You can pick old jewelry from various periods, including art deco jewellery (including art deco rings), Victorian jewelry, retro jewellry or styles from other eras.

The Victorian period, of which jewellery and ornamentation was a large part, lasted from 1837 to 1901 and was greatly influenced by Queen Victoria Alexandrina of England. The vintage jewelry of the early Victorian era focused on pieces that were more delicately designed, with beautiful engraving. The general themes of these pieces centered on natural origins like flowers, trees and birds. The later mid Victorian jewelry pieces were heavier and consisted of conservative gothic shapes and designs. Victorian jewelry in the later part of that period was influenced by archeological expeditions that took place to Italy, Egypt and Greece.

Victorian jewelry pieces were made up from materials like jet, human hair, seed pearls, gold and sterling silver. It was common to wear a lock of a loved one's hair encased in an old jewelry piece. Victorians of the era also wore hair lockets, rings, earrings and watch fobs.

If you want something a little different in the jewellry you wear, and want to make a statement in your own style, you may want to explore the options from jewellery stores London has to offer in the way of fine jewellery from the Victorian era.

The Edwardian era lasted from 1901 to 1910. The fashion and jewelry styles of this era were greatly influenced by King Edward, the son of Queen Victoria. During this period, the economy was strong and prosperity reigned. In Edwardian jewelry, lace-like designs were typical, fashioned in white gold or platinum and frequently set with diamond accents. Advancements were made in diamond cutting techniques and the Edwardian jewelry prevalent at the time reflected the new diamond cuts.

The Art Nouveau period, from 1890 to 1910 (overlapping the Victorian jewelry era a little) took on a rebellious note against the restrictions in design and lifestyle from the Victorian period. These antique jewelry designs were really miniature works of art, with free flowing lines in design. These pieces included Plique a'jour, a process of enameling that is transparent without a backing that created a beautiful stained glass effect. Themes incorporated life forms, orchids, lilies, irises, ferns, snakes, animals, and dragonflies into sensual shapes, and used opals, moonstones, horn, ivory, carved shells and pieces of glass. The Art Noveau jewellry pieces are still extremely popular today.

If you are looking for an art deco jewellery piece you may want to know a little more about that period of jewellery design. The art deco period, which lasted from 1920 to 1939, was a time for self-indulgence in strong contrast to the earlier Victorian period. Art deco jewellery had strong geometric shapes and symmetrical themes with diamonds, other precious stones and had bold bright colors.

Another era of jewellry that you may be interested in is the Retro period. The time period for retro jewellry included 1940 to 1950. At that time, the war had closed down most of the jewellery firms in Europe so fine jewellery came mostly from the United States marketplace. Hollywood stars became the designing influence for retro jewellry styles. Large bold pieces using stones like aquamarine, citrine, topaz and synthetics were popular. Many people today still find pieces from the retro jewellry era attractive and desirable. You can find many fine jewellery pieces from the retro jewellry era at a London jewellers location.

Although looking for vintage jewellery may be a bit of a challenge making your own personal statement and investing in estate jewelry can be very rewarding. In fact, Nash Jewellers is one of the only stores in London that specializes in estate jewellery. But, whether you are looking for art deco rings or other pieces of vintage jewelry from other eras, you can find a wide selection of vintage jewelry from Victorian jewelry, Edwardian jewelry, retro jewellry, art nouveau or art deco jewelry in that London store. You may even find the very piece you are looking for to set off your own personal style.

This article was prepared on behalf of Nash Jewellers located at 182 Dundas St., Downtown London, ON, or at 1690 Richmond Street North at their Masonville, London location, the London Jewelers that specializes in estate jewelry with pieces from the Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco, Art Nouveau or Retro periods.

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Chinatown: Western Europe's Taste of the East

2011-10-10T11:35:00.004+01:00

London's Chinatown is the largest such neighborhood in all of Europe. Although it has relocated during the twentieth century, it is currently in the Soho area of Westminster and is concentrated in and around Gerrard Street. Tourists and locals alike come here to sample some of London's best Chinese cuisine, see unique crafts from the Orient and witness several annual Chinese festivals.

Chinatown's history is as colorful as the present-day neighborhood. In the early 20th century, most of the city's Chinese population was in London's East End, specifically around Limehouse, so that's where there was a first semblance of a Chinatown. It mainly catered to Chinese dock workers and began to have a negative connotation for violence and opium usage. In the decades after World War II, the combination of many buildings in the area being destroyed in bombings and more and more Chinese immigrants entering the country led to a shift of the Chinese-centered settlement areas to the current zone around Gerrard Street and Shaftesbury Avenue. Chinatown today is still highly residential in addition to its restaurants and other attractions. One of the biggest residential blocks is called Vale Royal House, constructed in the 1980s, with the well-known China Town parking garage under it. Gerrard Street was later converted into a pedestrian walkway to further enhance Chinatown's tourism prospects. The Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus stations are the closest tube stations to the neighborhood.

London's Chinatown keeps many traditions alive. One is that on September 2 each year, businesses in the area still close their doors early to remember the death of Yelu Xian, the Liao Dynasty emperor. The red pagoda-style telephone booths are a fun characteristic to look out for. Watch the vibrant red decorations go up for Chinese New Year and enjoy the traditional Lion Dances and Dragon Dances. Late-night fireworks are the centerpiece of the holiday. It is estimated that nearly 500,000 people came to Chinatown for 2011's Chinese New Year festivities on February 6. The Mid-Autumn Festival is also cause for celebration in Chinatown. During this festival you can try the ubiquitous and flavorful moon cakes. Food traditions from all over Asia are very much alive in Chinatown. You can find top-quality Cantonese, Mongolian, Szechuan, Malaysian dishes and more. There are more than 70 restaurants squeezed into this relatively small area. You can also check out its Asian markets to find exotic ingredients for your own kitchen. Cantonese dim sum and seafood specialties make great meals, and Shanghai dumplings, or Xiao Long Boa, are also a local favorite. If you'd like to have a true Asian dining experience and are planning to try your hand at chopsticks, there are a few rules and guidelines to remember. Never point at anyone with chopsticks unless you're trying to insult your neighbor. Also don't stick chopsticks vertically in a plate or bowl of food to leave them standing up. It resembles incense sticks burnt to honor ancestors. When you've finished a meal, always rest your chopsticks as a pair on top of your plate or bowl.

Billie Grubb enjoys writing about London since the city has so much to offer. One of his favorite hotels is the Cumberland Hotel London where the property is minutes away from Hyde park, Madame Tussards wax museum and Carnaby Street shopping area.

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London Fashion Shows ( video )

2011-10-09T00:58:00.004+01:00

By Irina Moore

You have often heard one say, "A man is known by the company he keeps". However it seems these days that a person is more likely to be known by the attire he/she wears. It is considered, that the biggest mistake a person can ever commit is a fashion faux pas. One thing that is inevitable in the fashion world is change. We are consistently being presented with various advertisement gigs that portray what famous celebrities are wearing and this has a direct impact on our lives. While shopping for clothes, a typical teenager would often say, "I want a dress that resembles what Bono was wearing in his latest music video". Today, fashion dictates our lives and what we wear. Whether it is at a party or at work, we want our dress to reflect our taste and attitude. On other occasions, we are keener on making a personal style statement.

No lucid citation can be made regarding the advent of the London fashion culture. It dates back to the period during the Hippie culture which was originally a youth movement that began in the United States. It started during the 1960s and spread all over the world. This was probably one of the first major fashion influence that the world had witnessed. Hippie fashions and values had a profound impact on global culture and influenced major areas such as television, film and popular music. One such example was the use of homemade tie-dyed t-shirts that had become very popular.

The end of the Second World War had some more revolutionary fashion changes in store.During the 1930s, actresses Katharine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich were often photographed wearing trousers and this made trousers more acceptable for women.By the end of the war, women had experienced a sense of independence, were experiencing their own individuality and were more liberalized. This allowed the women to fight for their rights and influenced a change in what they started to wear. Gradually, this had an impact on the women of London. They became wary of the fashion culture and became susceptible to change in what they wore.

During the early to mid 1970s, "Punk" originated as a style in London from the designer Vivienne Westwood and her partner Malcolm McLaren. Nonconformist and postmodernist in its nature and essence, this resulted from the economic depression that was prevalent during this period in London.

When it comes to fashion, London is one of the fashion capitals of the world. The others being Milan, Paris and New York City. London now hosts a plethora of London Fashion Events with the London Fashion Week event being most popular. A bi-annual event, the London Fashion Week now forms part of one of London's leading events attracting a target audience comprising of eminent fashion personalities, retailers and press. The London Fashion Week is held several months in advance of the season so that the press and the prospective buyers are given a chance to preview the fashion designs in advance, for the subsequent season. The governing body for fashion in London is the British Fashion Council or the BFC.

A lot of other London Events remain associated with London Fashion Events and they are London Social Events, London Art Events and London shows.

Simple formal wear are now a passé. Even for common masses, sophistication is the key to perfect dressing, whether the occasion is formal or informal. However, a pair of well-fitted jeans is least likely to fall out of fashion. Jeans are trousers made from denim, and they became quite popular with the teenagers starting in the 1950s and remain in vogue till date.

We, Event366.com keep you updated regarding the happening London Fashion Events. If you are a fashion designer or anyone interested to attend Fashion Events in London, you can visit our site where you will find comprehensive information regarding all such London Fashion Events and their venue in particular and London Events in general.

Hi, this is Irina Moore from London for Events366. We have a catalogue of London Shows and events, customized to suit your desire. Please visit to find the latest happenings in London.

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Hectic Hat Hire

2011-10-09T00:48:00.003+01:00

Located in Fulham, south-west London,

Hectic Hat Hire offers a friendly personalised service
for ladies who are looking for that little bit 'extra'!

Our hats and fascinators are sourced and chosen
for their exuberant colours and extravagant styles,
and are seen at all the leading racecourses
including Ascot, The Derby, Dubai, St Leger
and the Melbourne Gold Cup.

However, for less jaunty occasions such as graduations,
passing out parades, investitures at the palace
and memorial services, we offer a more appropriate
style of hat.

We love weddings, and take special care of both mothers of the bride and the groom, as well as family and friends.

Prices range between £30.00 and £120.00 for a long
weekend (apart from Ascot week and the Derby which
operates on a daily hire).

In addition, we're happy to customise our hats
to complement your outfit, and therefore recommend
you bring it with you when you visit us.

Radley Handbags Lead the Way With Style and Versatility

2011-10-09T00:33:00.002+01:00

Radley London is one of the most fashionable retailers in a city known for its stylish shops. Among the goods most sought after from this esteemed seller are Radley Handbags. The current collection offers tremendous selection, with a wide variety of colorful, versatile, smart, and highly functional options from which to choose. These large bags offer generous storage space, but Radley bags are designed to look slim, sculpted, compact, not bulky or boxy. Open one up and most shoppers are surprised at the spacious interiors offered in the collection. Busy, on the go women enjoy their Radley bags because they are attractive enough to take anywhere - to the work place, on an outing with the family, or to a casual function where a change of clothes or other items require bringing a tote or shoulder bag.

When shopping Radley handbags, the categories deliver the looks you like and the practical style you prefer. Grab bags are the smallest type of bags they carry and provide a styles ranging from the elegant to the beautifully casual. When the occasion calls for a classy approach the Grosvenor and Marsden lines are stocked with chic bags with nicely contoured lines and plenty of room within for a wallet, keys, cosmetics bag, and more. For casual excursions the Pontefract line is perfect. Its whimsical, fun looks are a nice touch with a relaxed, comfortable wardrobe. If jeans are in the mix, the Rothwell or Bewdley Radley handbags fit the part perfectly with comfortable yet quite together styling.

The largest Radley handbags are their totes. These fit enough stuff for all day, whether work and then dining with friends is on the agenda, or the schedule allows for a little down time at the beach, the gardens, or the shopping district. The color options include brights and pastels, as well as a good mix of browns and black. Putting the right bag together with the right color to fit your image is easy with Radley handbags. Favorites include the urbane Colchester, the quaint Vanessa, and the Taunton which is stunning yet practical in either understated white or black. For sheer fun, the Axminster, Olney, and Crazy Dogs Radley Handbags are unbeatable!

Radley handbags feature additional styles that perform beautifully as work bags for times when you've got to leave the office for a meeting or to make sales calls, and gym bags when you want to stop by the exercise facility, switch into your workout clothes, and keep up your fitness routine.

For taking along the items you need to succeed throughout each day, Radley handbags offer the widest selection and most versatile and attractive bags on the market.

Save big on discount Radley bags. Get new Radley, Tula, DKNY and Marc Jacobs bags for less from http://designerhandbagdiscounts.co.uk/. Visit today.

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Limo Hire London – Limos for different occasions and events!

2011-10-08T19:18:00.006+01:00

Free Articles UK | Limo Hire London – Limos for different occasions and events!

By: Jolie Silver

If you are planning a trip to London for first time, there is no better way to observe the town than by chauffeur driven Limousine. Take in the views that you wish to see devoid of any of the hassle. From London Eye to the Buckingham Palace, Tower of London to the Westminster Abbey, take pleasure in all that London has to proffer from the ease of your chauffeur driven limo.All the limos are of the top range and outstandingly maintained, therefore you could rest guaranteed that you will get a service that is second to none while you make a reservation with Limousine hire London. In addition, you could pick the biggest fleet in the entire UK; you would not find a wider selection of limos anywhere else, assured.You could get quality Limousine hire for different occasions and guarantee to source you the ideal vehicle to harmonize your function. If you are planning to marry in London, or if you are celebrating a birthday, stag or hen do, or an anniversary, limo hire London could transport you luxury and style.For the people who are searching to sample London's well-known nightlife, you could get the ultimate party automobile. The hummer Limousine is jam filled with a few of the top aboard features money could buy comprising a state of art sound system, DVD player with the plasma screens, strobe lighting in addition to a neon lighted dance floor and cocktail bar, and also a karaoke system with an integral smoke machine. You can enjoy a ride to a few of the top night spots in London like Hoxton, Covent Garden, or West End clubs in any of these Limousines and you would not fail to have a night to memorize.

Shopping Buffs Can Take It Easy Near Hotels In Holborn

2011-10-08T19:04:00.003+01:00

Folks will find themselves enticed to the capital city for varied reasons. One of the chief among them can be attributed to the places it helms for the shopping enthusiasts. One of such place Holborn is buzzing with stores, and markets. Visitors can rush here at any time of the season. Plenty of choices can be adhered to. Travellers to the city will find theses hubs nearby hotels in Holborn. Stay in one of those for a grand excursion. Some examples of the shopping markets in Holborn are:
International Magic Shop

Clerkenwell Road in London plays host to this superb shop. As the name suggests, budding magicians can lay their hands on a superb variety at this place. Any stuff relating to magicians can be splurged on. Whether it is the props, videos, games, cards, magic stick or apparels of magicians, bags full of magical toys are sure to be traded. Magic course for the beginners and novices are also conducted to learn the tricks of the trade. Children are sure to have a thrilling time. The shop remains closed only on Sundays.

London Silver Vaults

This is the place to arrive if you want to indulge in a spree of finest silver. Visitors can rely absolutely on the quality and authenticity of the material. A range of a total forty shops under one roof can be accessed by the travellers, in service for over five decades. Visitors can also buy exotic and upmarket antique silver and jewellery. From champagne swizzle sticks to silver chairs, the stuff inside the shop is rare and exclusive. Items covering almost all the centuries adorn the shelf. A saunter at Chancery Lane in Holborn will take you to this superb place.

Leather Lane Market

A traditional street market of London operating since 300 years, visitors can buy anything from garments, accessories, CDs, gadgets to food items on economical rates. The earlier names of the market were Le Vrunelane in the 13th century and Loverane Lane in the 14th century times. This place opens as early as 10 am and closes around 3 in the afternoon from Monday to Friday. Frequented by the office going crowd, this market is located at Leather Lane in London. If you are hungry after all that shopping, taking care of your dietary needs is an array of cafes in vicinity to this market.

About The Author

John Rodricks is an associate editor of a website which offers

hotels in Holborn . The travelers can pick from a varied range of Holborn hotels near Holborn tube station

Docklands Property for the Dream London Lifestyle

2011-10-08T18:59:00.002+01:00

With its breezy, modern riverside location, fine shopping and dining facilities, and convenient access to major financial and business areas, it's no surprise that Docklands property is among the most sought after in London. The seductive blend of modern flats and a historic site by the River Thames makes the whole Docklands area into place for a dream lifestyle.

What gives the area its special allure is its storied history dating back to the time when the time when Britain was the world's premier maritime nation. Until a few short decades ago, this was one of the most dynamic ports in the world employing 50000 people.

Changes in shipping practices led to the demise of the docks but the 1980s say the whole area rise from the ashes to become the modern business and residential area it is today.

Some of the old Dockland warehouses were converted into modern apartments and the docks themselves became water-sport centres and marinas. The establishment of sophisticated transport links and promotion as a business centre led to the whole Docklands becoming one of the city's more vibrant communities.

Furthermore its strategic location means you are never away from excellent bus services or from an underground station. And the Docklands Light Railway can quickly whisk you to Limehouse, Stratford, Greenwich, and Lewisham stations.

And of course there's been a spate of residential construction of all types of property. All this means that the area is home to a large number of especially elegant flats that are at the cutting edge of modern residential property.

Its clusters of skyscrapers bearing the logos of major banks attest to its status as a worthy contender to the traditional dominance of the city of London as a financial and media centre.

The most venerable of the Docklands developments is Canary Wharf built on the site of the old West India Docks on the Isle of Dogs. Canary Wharf is characterised by a sense of space owing to its open spaces - Canada Square, Cabot Square, Jubilee Park, Churchill Place and Westferry Circus.

Another great attraction is the shopping both in the form of small, exclusive shops and the three grand shopping malls - Canada Place, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place which are all linked together. Other than shopping outlets they also house cafes and restaurants. The area is also the site ofregular artistic events such as concerts and art exhibitions.

Canary Wharf has it all but one of the great things about the Docklands is that new developments are springing up all the time.

One of the most exciting is St Luke's Square which was completed in 2009. For rent are a range of stylish one- and two-bedroomed apartments on seven floors finished to the highest standards and complete with private balcony or terrace for taking in the night air. Communal roof terraces are perfect for parties on warm summer evenings. Other amenities include secure underground car parking and landscaped courtyards.

With a location close to vibrant Canning Town, your St Luke's Square flat is the perfect nest to explore all that London has to offer as well as being close to your office in the Docklands or the City. Canning town is on both the Jubilee Line and DLR offering swift transfers to London City Airport.

St Luke's Square is just minutes from Canary Wharf and near the Royals Business Park, London's largest urban business park situated on a one-mile waterfront site fronting the Royal Albert Dock. With its wine and sushi bars, glittering skyscrapers, swank shops and mall and tree lined squares, the Docklands offers a complete lifestyle for the modern urbanite.

The recent financial crisis actually benefited the quality property market as it reduced financing for new projects. This made existing property all the more valuable as banks and other businesses began rehiring.

This makes Docklands property the perfect buy to live or let investment. Or if you or your company need short let apartments London, one of the many Docklands developments will give you all that you need.

To find the right Docklands property for you or your company, visit the web sites of property management companies and estate agents dealing in prime properties in Canary Wharf, and St Luke’s Square.

TheTop five London attractions

2011-10-08T18:51:00.005+01:00

London will please most any kind of traveler, what with it's blend of modern facets and it's rich varied history. It's no wonder that London is one of the most popular cities on the globe consdiering it's hundreds of art galleries, museums and other attractions which include theatre, nightlife, zoos and music. If you are planning to visit London you should plan to take in these five attractions:

Westminster Abbey

This burial ground, church and coronation site is the final resting place of great poets, kings and other notables of British descent. Westminster Abbey is still used as a chuech on a regular basis for events and religious services. The visit is made very worthwhile by the works of art contained in the Abbey. A painting of Richard II hanges inside the west entryway. This is the oldest portrait of a British monarch on display today, having been painted back in 1390.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, the official residence of British monarchy, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in England. If you visit in August or September you'll find that the Palace's 19 staterooms are open to the public. Some areas of the Palace are open all year and visitors can see the grandiose architecture of the building along with other exhibits. A must see for visitors is the Changing of the Guard as is a stroll through the 40 acre gardens and grounds.

Tower of London

Many have heard of the Tower of London, but not everyone knows it served as a prison for many years. The original structure was built to be used as a fort by William the Conqueror around 1100 AD. Later the Tower evolved into a prison and then into a monument for the sizable collection of Crown Jewels which are still on display today. The highlight of the collection is the 530-carat Star of Africa. The pear shaped diamond is the 2nd largest in the world and was extracted from a South African mine. The Royal Armouries are also an interesting stop at the Tower of London. The spiral staircase running up the interior is the only way up and this British national museum of arms and armour has more than 40,000 pieces on display.

Trafalgar Square

This large, open plaza is often the site of political demonstrations and other public events in London. Aside from being the intersection for several major streets, the square is a great gateway to sightseeing in the area. On the north side of Trafalgar Square, you will find the National Gallery, one of the world's prime art museums. To the west, you will come across Canada House, where visiting Canadians can get a taste of home; it's worth a visit for everyone. South Africa House is on the east side and although it is closed to the public, the stone arches with African animals are worth a look. When you have seen all there is in Trafalgar Square, be sure to visit 10 Downing Street, the home of British Prime Ministers since 1732 and the Churchill Museum, both are located within walking distance of the square.

Harrods

What would a trip to London be without a little shopping? The world's greatest department store, Harrods, is great even for the window shoppers. And, for those who are looking to spend a bit of dough, this million square feet of merchandise is every shoppers dream. In fact, Harrods motto is - Omnia Omnibus Ubique - which means "All Things For All People Everywhere". Although it has been around for 150 years, Harrods is as modern as the latest iPod. Many of its departments, including the seasonal Christmas shop and the Food Hall, are world famous for their quality and abundance of selection. Where else can you choose from 300 different types of cheese?

These top five London attractions will get you started but you will discover London has so much to do and see a second visit will be in order.

You are welcome to reprint this article 'as is' with the resource box below with live link attached.

About The Author

Thomas Smith

Find the best Discount London Hotels by visiting Search UK Hotels at http://www.searchukhotels.com/London-1.shtml

King’s Cross

2011-10-08T18:29:00.005+01:00

For visiting London, proximity to King’s Cross is the perfect location. An intersection of six tube lines, including , Picadilly, and Circle Lines, to name a few, can get you virtually anywhere from King’s Cross. King’s Cross also a train terminal, in the case that you are planning to visit the north of the UK. But let’s not get off track and get back to seeing London via King’s Cross. London, the cultural melting pot that it is, offers amazing and varied shops of anything you could desire. Located near the major shopping zones of London, both commercial and artisan, King’s Cross is a convenient place for a shopping tour in London. The city is also a magnet for great and creative minds, as is well known by all the thinkers, writers and artists who both came to and from London. The wide range of museums and galleries reflects this intellectual breeding ground, and again, King’s Cross is a skip, hop and a jump away from many of these world-class museums. Less conventional tours to start from King’s Cross could include a round of the city’s parks, exploring the wide web of the tube itself, or the nearby nightlife hotspots. So, whether it’s shopping, rich culture, or any fun explorations that you’re after, King’s Cross will guide you there quickly and efficiently.

For the shoppers! Have an early and hearty breakfast (you will need the energy) and put yourself on the Northern Line, heading for Camden Town, where you will find open air markets selling art, crafts, clothes, accessories and much more. It’s best to spend time here in the morning, as the area isn’t the safest at night. After you’ve stocked up on original craft gifts at the market, head back to your hotel, drop them off, and back on the tube! Via the Picadilly Line, head towards Covent Garden, a famous indoor market, and the surrounding area, full of boutiques, shops, and nice cafes. This picturesque market makes a nice lunch stop, with some cozy restaurants nearby. Picadilly Circus comes next: very commercialized, with many well-known brand stores. Picadilly is a fun place to return to at night, as the lights and pubs draw partiers to them like moths to the flame! Head on to Knightsbridge to see the world famous Harrod’s Department store. After this detour, it’s on to Oxford Circus to join the crowded throng admiring and buying the riches of Oxford Street, which is equivalent to New York’s Fifth Ave, a street of fancy department stores interspersed with chic shopping boutiques. If your spending needs are still not satiated, check out other markets, such as Portobello, or just by walking through London, you will find hidden gems of stores throughout the city. If, however, Oxford Street sums up the shopping day nicely for you, head back into the Oxford Circus tube, and the Victoria Line will conveniently take you right back to King’s Cross.

For the culture seeker, you will start your day heading in the opposite direction of the shopper. Head south on the Picadilly Line to Russell Square, and just a few blocks south of the shady square is the British Museum. After your explorations, you may also enjoy Covent Garden for its history and theater – check out the listings as they may draw you back in the evening. Nearby is Trafalgar Square, home of the National Gallery. From here, continue on to Green Park, and gasp at the size and beauty of Buckingham Palace. Changing of the Guard takes place nearby, so check the season’s schedule if you are interested. Slide down the Jubilee Line to Southwark, and enjoy the neighboring Tate Modern and Globe Theatre. Make your way back north of the river to Tower Hill, and explore London’s Tower. Take the Circle line back to King’s Cross to conclude the cultural loop.

The adventurer who wants to learn the city by randomly coming across the interesting things may enjoy traveling from park to park, always great for people watching and discovering the wide variety of London’s inhabitants. Regents, Hyde, Green, and St. James Parks are the main ones, each with distinctive personalities. The Tube itself is extremely interesting, and it’s worth reading the entertaining advertisements of the tube, listen to some talented and not-so-talented musicians, pick out who the tourists are and who the natives are… the tube can be really enjoyable during your voyage. Take advantage of being in this unique London sub world! King’s Cross is also nearby to Leicester Square and Picadilly, both popular night out areas. Or try traveling round Circle line and seeing how many pubs you can manage to stop at… after which, see if you manage to find your way back to King’s Cross on this concentric line!

King’s Cross, recently made famous through Harry Potter’s platform 9 3/4, is more than a fictitious train platform. It’s a station that literally will get you anywhere in London (and beyond) very conveniently. If you’re visiting London to shop, to learn its culture, or just to explore it for face value, King’s Cross is the best starting and ending point. You will get to where you need to go quickly, and at the end of the long day, you won’t have to wait long to be back at your London home, sweet home.

About The Author

This article was written by Pat Stevens with support from The Jesmond Dene Hotel, an inviting bed and breakfast conveniently located in close proximity to King’s Cross station. To learn more about how bed and breakfasts can add to your travel experience, please visit http://www.jesmonddenehotel.co.uk/.

Heathrow's Best Clothes Shops

2011-10-07T21:14:00.001+01:00

London Heathrow Airport has a great number of shops in its five terminals. The airport is known for its duty-free selection of merchandise. Value Added Tax is not charged on the merchandise sold at the airport. BAA, the company which owns the airport, has guaranteed that airport prices will not be more than they would be on High Street in London.

Many of the shops at Heathrow sell clothing. Heathrow's best clothes shops are the ones that offer the highest quality merchandise for the price. Travelers shopping for clothes will be likely to find anything they want. Many of the clothing shops at Heathrow sell brands that are considered quality merchandise.

Designer clothing shops at the airport include Burberry, Escada, Hermes and Versace. Burberry has men's clothing, women's clothing and accessories. Escada offers scarves and women's clothing. Hermes sells silk scarves. Versace has a collection of luxury fashion items.

The airport has a Harrods department store and a Harrods store. Harrods sells designer clothing including Ralph Lauren. Ermenegildo Zegna sells dress and sports shirts for men. This store is known for selling elegant attire. Hugo Boss offers some of the latest items for men. There is also a Hugo Boss store for women in the airport. The first Paul Smith airport store in the world is at Heathrow. This store sells jeans. Salvatore Ferragamo has scarves and ties for sale. There is a Reiss store in the airport which sells clothing. Reiss clothing is considered high quality. Ted Baker sells men's and women's clothing. Thomas Pink has shirts and ties. Timberland sells jackets and boots.

Other clothing shops in the airport include Austin Reed and Tie Rack. Austin Reed sells leisure clothing and business wear. Tie Rack offers silk ties and scarves.

Travelers who stay at Heathrow airport hotels will spend less time traveling to the airport for return flights. They will have more time shop in Heathrow's best clothing shops. Deals on these hotels can be found at lastminute.com hotels.

Shoppers who want to save money on quality clothing will be able to do so at Heathrow's best clothing shops.

Max is an author, writer and editor. He is married with two children and a cat and lives in south east London.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Max_Brockbank

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Shepherd's Bush Market ( video )

2011-10-07T19:07:00.003+01:00

Dating back to the early part of the last century, Shepherd's Bush Market stands on the East side of the railway viaduct between Uxbridge Rd and Goldhawk Rd. Serving both the local Irish and Afro-Caribbean community, it's a good place to head for music CDs, fresh and cooked foods, yams and other exotic fruits plus household goods and furnishings.

Antiques Markets

2011-10-07T11:53:00.001+01:00

If you love shopping for antiques, you'll love London. The city has lots of charming antique shops with something for everyone from the serious collector to those just looking for interesting souvenirs or gifts.There are several antique malls in London which offer the added convenience of having many dealers all located under one roof. And the antique malls are usually open seven days a week - many of the popular antique markets and flea markets are only open on weekends.Top-quality furniture and fine art dealers can be found near King's Road, Kensington Church Street, St. James, and Bond Streets. If money's not an object, make a point of visiting Waterhouse and Dodd, Haslam and Whiteway, and Rafferty and Walwyn.

In 1976, dealer/collector Bernie Gray opened Alfie's Antiques Market at the eastern end of Church Street in the old Jordan's Department Store. It has four floors of stalls and a restaurant on the roof where you can take a break from shopping with a light meal or a drink. Many of the dealers here have been at Alfies since it opened and they're very knowledgeable. They can help you find what you're looking for here, or on one of the nearby Church Street antique shops.

Only slightly younger than Alfies is Gray's, which opened in 1977. Located in an old terracotta building in the West End, it has more than 200 dealers that sell a little bit of everything. The selection of collectibles is impressive and there's always nice Victorian and Art Nouveau jewelry, vintage clothes and accessories, old dolls, photographs, musical instruments, and watches.

Camden Passage in Islington is a good place to go on Wednesdays or Saturdays. The stalls in the passage are filled those days, and there are also plenty of antique shops on Islington High Street. There are some really nice shops here specializing in fine art, jukeboxes, decorative objects, and Art Nouveau jewelry.

Off the Portobello Road, where one of London's best antique markets takes place on weekends, you'll find the Admiral Vernon Antiques Market. To miss the crowds, come during the week to shop for old cameras, toys, clocks, arms and armor, and glassware. If you get hungry, you'll find a cafe downstairs.

One of the most appealing antique malls in London is Antiquarius. If you've been down the King's Road, chances are you noticed it - the building is lovely. It's been in business since the 1960s and there are more than 80 dealers selling vintage clothes, furniture, fine art, and collectibles.

If silver is what you collect, head for the London Silver Vaults, where there are thirty dealers who specialize in old silver. In fact, it has the largest collection of antique silver in the world. It's housed in an 1876 building that was once the Chancery Lane Safe Deposit. There are perfume bottles, ornate boxes, tea services, writing instruments, timepieces, and, of course, lots of beautiful silver jewelry from several different periods.

Find more London antique shops here.
Find Barcelona antique shops here.

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Victoria Street

2011-10-07T11:26:00.001+01:00

Victoria Street stretches from east-west axis from the Broad Sanctuary station to Westminster Abbey. The new development called Cardinal Walk is gradually becoming famous for a premium selection of banks, shops and restaurants. This makes the Victoria Street now an ideal shopping destination against its earlier impression of possessing the top notch hotels in Victoria London.

Muriel Leather
Where: 164 Victoria Street Victoria Village London SW1E 5LB, +44 (0) 20 7630 1476
It offers all leather goods, handbags, suitcases and clothes and much more. It also offers the repair service.

Marks and Spancer
Where: Cardinal Place Unit 10 London SW1E 5JE, +44 (0) 20 7828 5190
Marks and Spencer, the world renowned department store sells everything from food to home furnishings. The clothes are priced quite reasonably and is store is known for its ready prepared meals predominantly.

The Belgravia Trichological Centre
Where: 52 Grosvenor Gardens London SW1W 0AU, +44 (0) 20 7730 6666
The Belgravia Trichological Centeris the largest and the most modern trichological clinic in Europe which specializes primarily in hair and scalp ailments. Unique services are offered by the center to make sure the convenience of the visitors.

Accessorize
Where: Cardinal Place London SW1E 6SH, +44 (0) 20 7828 6055
The outlet offers a huge variety of fashionable accessories for ladies. Apart from this, one can also find desired outfit, hats, scarves, gloves, jewellery, purses and sunglasses.

Jones Bootmakers
Where: Cardinal Place Unit 19 London SW1E 5JL +44 (0) 20 7828 4365
Jones Bootmakers has been incorporating the skill and pride for almost a century now. It offers years of pleasure in owning and wearing a pair of genuine shoes by Jones Bootmakers. Service for repair is also made available here.

Sanderson
Where: 101 Victoria Street London SW1E 6QX, +44 (0) 20 7834 1234
Sanderson offers a beautiful range of soft furnishings which include cushions and curtains along with wallpaper and selection of furniture.

The Carphone Warehouse
Where: 147 Victoria Street London SW1E 5NH, +44 (0) 870 142 1028
The shop offers a wide range of mobile phones and their accessories. They are also known for offering impartial advice on suitable phones and mobile networks available.

Thus shopping in London is the most loved act of the people. This city in Europe is one of the most admired destinations for shopping. In order to contribute to the cause the Victoria Street leaves no stone unturned to offer the best shopping stores.

I will cover all famous streets, pubs, hotels and restaurants of London. for more info on shopping at Victoria street and hotels in Victoria London visit http://www.victorialondonhotel.com.

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Selfridges ( videos )

2011-10-07T11:14:00.003+01:00

Don't be fooled into thinking that this huge department store is simply a Mecca for commercialism and shopaholics. Selfridges has a truly fascinating history that supports its excellent reputation for providing a huge range of high quality goods. Emphasising the ethos that "shopping should be fun", the stores original founder, US entrepreneur Harry Gordon Selfridge, defined the shop's hands-on, theatrical image that has endured since its opening in 1909. A lover of all things scientific, unusual exhibits were often used to attract and amaze customers - John Logie Baird carried out his first public demonstration of television from the first floor of the store in 1925, it was in Selfridges that 12,000 people viewed the monoplane used to complete the first cross-Channel flight, while a seismograph installed on the third floor, recorded tremors from the Belgian earthquake in 1938. This tradition for unique displays and unusual exhibitions continues to this day and is a major reason to visit the store. Selfridges' ever-changing window displays always attract immense interest and are consistently groundbreaking and often controversial - one of the most bizarre has to be the series of Japanese-inspired characters used to depict scenes from TV dating shows, which in turn encouraged shoppers to record their own personal video ad in one of the dating pods located in-store. Scores of excellent clothes retailers, a superb Food Hall, and a number of first class restaurants all under one roof make Selfridges, understandably, the biggest draw on Oxford Street.

Hamleys ( toys) ( videos )

2011-10-07T10:53:00.003+01:00

Probably the greatest toy shop in the world, Hamleys, on Regent Street, has seven floors of toys to explore! People come from all over the world come to visit Hamleys and buy the most wonderful toys and games, as well as to experience the magical atmosphere. The staff will often dress up in costumes to entertain, and there are always lots of toy demonstrations, so you can try before you buy.

Hamleys History

William Hamley opened his first toy store back in 1760 and soon became a London landmark. Hamleys opened on Regent Street in 1881.

In the 1930s, Hamleys received its first Royal Warrant (supplier to British royalty).

During WWII, Hamleys was bombed five times but I love the story of staff carrying on serving from the front door while wearing tin hats.

Address

188 - 196 Regent Street, London W1B 5BT

Hope and Greenwood (confectionery)

2011-10-07T10:27:00.001+01:00

Hope and Greenwood is a cornucopia of classic confectionery. Their Covent Garden shop has a huge array of much loved traditional sweets in old fashioned glass jars and pick & mix treasures, to a lavish selection of award winning, British made chocolates including Granny's favorite, Violet creams.

Address:

1 Russell Street
London
WC2
Just off Covent Garden Piazza.

Nearest Tube Stations:

Covent Garden
Holborn

Telephone Number:

020 7240 3314

Opening Hours:

Monday to Saturday: 10.30am - 7.30pm
Sunday: 12pm - 6pm

Columbia Road Flower market ( videos )

2011-10-07T10:19:00.002+01:00

Every Sunday, 8am-3pm, along this narrow cobbled street, you can find over 50 market stalls and 30 shops selling flowers, and gardening supplies. It's a truly colorful experience.

About Columbia Road Flower Market

Thousands of gardeners visit Columbia Road Flower Market every Sunday to buy bulbs, plants and shrubs, and to see the exotic array of cut flowers.

Columbia Road Flower market is a street market operated by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. This tiny street gets really busy so go early for the best cut flowers. Even if you don't intend to buy any flowers, this market is great to visit as it is so colorful.

Most of the market traders are from Essex where they have their own nurseries to produce their own plants. Stock changes every week but expect to find cut flowers, herbaceous plants and shrubs, and an abundance of bedding plants.

Many of the shops that line Columbia Road and the nearby streets specialize in interior design, as well as gardening.

There are plenty of dining options in the area including seafood, English breakfasts and Spanish tapas.

Old Spitalfields Market

2011-10-07T09:56:00.001+01:00

Old Spitalfields Market dates back to 1638 when King Charles gave a license for "flesh, fowl, and roots" to be sold in what was then known as Spittle Fields. This is now a seriously cool place to shop. The market is surrounded by independent shops selling hand-made craft, fashion, and gifts. The market is busiest on Sundays, but is there Monday to Friday too. Shops open 7 days a week.

About Old Spitalfields Market

Old Spitalfields Market is a covered market so you won't get wet when it rains, but it's not in a hall – the sides are open to the elements - so wrap up warm in the winter.

The market stalls sell everything from the curious and intriguing to, let's face it, "junk". Old Spitalfields Market is a good place to spend a few hours browsing. If you're looking for jewelry, the variety is endless. There are also clothes stalls where you're bound to find something different, trendy, funky, retro (genuine), etc. You can buy fresh bread and cakes, pies and pasties, organic vegetables, and meat to take home, or you can eat at one of the many restaurants and cafeterias which serve food from all over the world - Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Thai, and Indonesian, to name but a few. These are generally reasonably priced and well patronized by city workers, so you may find you have to queue at lunchtime.

Camden Market

2011-10-07T09:39:00.001+01:00

Made up of several smaller markets and spread over most of Camden Town centre, Camden Market has become one of London's top attractions. Drawing around 100,000 visitors every weekend it is the largest street market in the UK, offering a comprehensive selection of goods, including clothing, sculptures, jewelry, antiques, knick-knacks, bric-a-brac, furniture, and army surplus gear. There are some shops and stalls open all week but the busiest times are Saturday and Sunday.

Open: Sun: 10:00am - 6:00pm (Large parts open throughout the week)

Address: Camden High Street, London, NW1

Location Map: Click Here

Nearest Tube: Camden Town / Chalk Farm

Brick Lane Market

2011-10-07T09:34:00.001+01:00

Once the site of brick manufacturing in the city and later a busy livestock market, Brick Lane is now home to a very popular Sunday market. A vast hotchpotch of stalls where you can find anything from furniture to food, kitchenware to hardware and odd boots to bikes. Brick Lane is lined with many Indian and Bangladeshi restaurants, trendy bars, and bagel shops, so refreshments aren't in short supply either. Allow plenty of time to see it all as the market now stretches into Cheshire Street and Slater Street.

Open: Sun: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Address: Brick Lane, London, E1

Location Map: Click Here

Nearest Tube: Shoreditch / Liverpool Street