Retail Therapy: Top 10 Shopping Spots (Westminster, the South Bank and Southwark)

London is a shopper’s paradise, and even with kids in tow, you can find some great spots for browsing, souvenir hunting, or picking up unique gifts in Westminster, the South Bank, and Southwark. This area offers a fantastic mix, from iconic parliamentary gift shops and bustling food markets to quirky independent boutiques and creative hubs. Many of these places are experiences in themselves, making “shopping” more of an adventure.  

Houses of Parliament Shop

If you’re looking for a uniquely British souvenir, the Houses of Parliament Shop is the place to go. There are actually two physical shops: one at 12 Bridge Street on Parliament Square (accessible to all), and the Jubilee Shop, located off Westminster Hall (accessible to tour visitors and via the Jubilee Café). They also have an online shop with worldwide delivery. You’ll find a wide range of items, including House of Commons and House of Lords merchandise, “Big Ben” themed gifts, books on history and politics, stationery, homeware, and even food and drink items. For families, items like the “Big Ben Rubber Duck” or “Attlee the Cat Plush Toy” could be fun finds, alongside more traditional souvenirs.  

The shop on Bridge Street is also the collection point for Click & Collect orders placed online. It’s a great place to find a memento of your visit to this historic heart of British democracy.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Houses of Parliament Shop
• Where: 12 Bridge Street, Parliament Square, SW1A 2JX (main public shop); Jubilee Shop (inside Parliament for visitors).  
• Open: Bridge Street Shop: Check locally, but typically standard retail hours. Jubilee Shop: During visitor/tour hours. Online shop 24/7.  
• Types of Goods: Parliamentary souvenirs, Big Ben gifts, books, stationery, homeware, toys (e.g., plush toys, rubber ducks), food & drink.  
• Price Range: Varies (e.g., magnets ~£4-£6, pens ~£5, plush toys ~£16-£25, books ~£7).  
• Family Perk: Unique London souvenirs, fun items like Big Ben ducks and plush cats.
• More Info: shop.parliament.uk  

Our Take: “After being wowed by Big Ben and Parliament, popping into their shop is a must for some really unique souvenirs. The kids loved the Big Ben rubber duck, and I picked up some lovely stationery. It’s not just tourist tat; there are some genuinely nice quality gifts.”

Lower Marsh Market

For a taste of a more traditional London street market, head to Lower Marsh Market in Waterloo. This historic market has a wonderfully local feel and offers a diverse range of goods, from inexpensive music, clothes, and hardware to fresh fruit and veg. In recent years, it has become a popular spot for street food, with traders offering cuisines from around the world, including Korean bibimbap, Cuban flavours, Japanese dishes, Ethiopian coffee, Turkish flatbread, and Peruvian delights. There are also stalls selling unique crafts, handmade cushions, jewellery, antiques, and even adorable handmade toys (“Untamed Princess”) and children’s clothing (“BG Ruche Design Studio”) , making it a good spot for finding something a bit different. It’s a vibrant, bustling place, especially on Saturdays.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Lower Marsh Market
• Where: Lower Marsh, Waterloo, London SE1. Nearest Tube: Waterloo.  
• Open: Monday – Friday 11:00-15:00; Saturday 10:00-17:00. Closed Sunday and bank holidays..  
• Types of Goods: Street food (global cuisines), fresh produce, clothing, crafts, antiques, jewellery, handmade toys, children’s clothing, music, hardware.  
• Price Range: Generally inexpensive to mid-range.
• Family Perk: Great variety of street food to please everyone, unique handmade toys and kids’ clothes, lively market atmosphere.
• More Info: lowermarshmarket.com  

Our Take: “Lower Marsh Market is a real hidden gem! It’s got such a great local vibe, and the street food is amazing – so many choices! We found some lovely handmade bits and pieces, and it’s much less touristy than some of the bigger markets. Perfect for a wander and a tasty, cheap lunch.”

BFI Shop (Southbank Centre)

If you have any film fanatics in the family, the BFI Shop at the Southbank Centre is a must-visit. It’s packed with an extensive range of DVDs and Blu-rays, including many BFI titles and selections from other leading labels. Beyond films, you’ll find a rich collection of film and TV-related books (from the BFI and other publishers), exclusive BFI merchandise, and a variety of great gifts like posters, greeting cards, and even film-themed socks. It’s a treasure trove for movie buffs of all ages. BFI Members enjoy a 15% discount on most products.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: BFI Shop
• Where: BFI Southbank, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XT (part of Southbank Centre). Nearest Tube: Waterloo.  
• Open: Seven days a week, 12:00-20:00..  
• Types of Goods: DVDs, Blu-rays, film/TV books, BFI merchandise, posters, gifts.  
• Price Range: Varies depending on item.
• Family Perk: Great for film-loving families, unique movie-related gifts and books.
• More Info: bfi.org.uk/shop (though direct shop link is usually via whatson.bfi.org.uk)  

Our Take: “For any movie buffs in your family, the BFI Shop is brilliant. They have an incredible selection of films on DVD and Blu-ray, plus loads of cool books and film-related gifts. We always find something interesting in there!”

Southbank Centre Shops

Beyond the dedicated BFI shop, the Southbank Centre itself hosts a variety of retail experiences reflecting its diverse cultural programming. There are three main shops: the Royal Festival Hall Shop, the Southbank Centre Shop on Mandela Walk, and the Hayward Gallery Shop. The Royal Festival Hall Shop is particularly good for families, with a large selection of gifts for children, many with a creative twist, such as colouring books, musical instruments, crafting kits, and a big selection of JellyCat plush toys. It also has poetry and music-themed gifts. The Mandela Walk Shop offers souvenirs, books, jewellery, children’s gifts, art prints, and homeware. The Hayward Gallery Shop focuses on art books, exhibition catalogues, and gifts inspired by current exhibitions. The shops often feature exclusive ranges inspired by the Southbank Centre’s architecture and artistic events. Don’t forget the second-hand book stalls often found outside along the riverfront, perfect for a serendipitous find.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Southbank Centre Shops (Royal Festival Hall Shop, Mandela Walk Shop, Hayward Gallery Shop)
• Where: Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road, London SE1 8XX. Nearest Tube: Waterloo.  
• Open: General shop hours Wed–Sun 11:30–19:00 (Closed Mon & Tue). Individual shop hours within the centre may vary, check locally.  
• Types of Goods: Children’s creative gifts, toys (JellyCat), books (art, poetry, children’s), music-themed items, design-led homeware, souvenirs, art prints, jewellery.  
• Price Range: Varies widely.
• Family Perk: Excellent selection of creative and educational children’s gifts, particularly in the Royal Festival Hall Shop. Second-hand bookstalls for bargains.
• More Info: southbankcentre.co.uk/shopping  

Our Take: “The shops at the Southbank Centre are great for browsing. The Royal Festival Hall shop is a treasure trove for kids’ gifts – really creative and fun things. And we always love a rummage through the second-hand book stalls outside!”

Gabriel’s Wharf

Tucked away on the South Bank, Gabriel’s Wharf is a colourful and charming enclave of independent shops, designer-maker studios, and eateries, offering a unique boutique shopping experience. You can find everything from handmade chocolates (Gabu Chocolatier) and quirky handbags (Vendula London) to vintage sportswear (Hartex, open weekends only), knitwear (Joanne Plumb Knitwear), and unique hats, including children’s accessories (Heads Rule Hearts). Art lovers will appreciate Skylark Galleries and Southbank Printmakers, showcasing local artists, while Potters’ Yard Arts offers ceramics and lettering art. For families, Heads Rule Hearts is a definite stop for adorable children’s accessories. The general vibe is creative and less mainstream than high street shopping. Gabriel’s Wharf is open all day, every day, but individual business hours vary, so it’s best to check with specific venues if you have a particular shop in mind.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Gabriel’s Wharf
• Where: 56 Upper Ground, South Bank, London SE1 9PP. Nearest Tube: Waterloo or Blackfriars.  
• Open: Wharf open all day; individual shop/studio hours vary (many are Tue-Sun).  
• Types of Goods: Designer-maker crafts, glassware, jewellery, ceramics, fashion, art, handmade chocolates, children’s accessories, vintage sportswear.  
• Price Range: Varies from affordable gifts to higher-end designer pieces.
• Family Perk: Unique, independent shops, children’s accessories at Heads Rule Hearts, often a more relaxed shopping atmosphere.
• More Info: coinstreet.org/gabriels-wharf  

Our Take: “Gabriel’s Wharf is such a cute find! It’s full of little independent shops and studios. We found some lovely, unique gifts here, and there’s a shop called Heads Rule Hearts that has some really sweet hats and bits for kids. It’s a nice change from the big chain stores.”

Bermondsey Fayre

This boutique gallery, Bermondsey Fayre, located at 212 Bermondsey Street, was listed in the 2021 guidebook as selling appealing clothes and accessories by local and independent designers, with opening hours of Noon–6 pm Tue–Thu & Sat, 11 am–6 pm Fri, and noon–5 pm Sun. More recent information from 2023 suggests Bermondsey Fayre also incorporates yoga (currently online classes) and continues to support local and independent artists with an emphasis on eco-living and ethically made products. This focus on unique, ethically made items could make it a good spot for thoughtful family gifts. However, other recent search results for “Bermondsey Fayre” are less clear, with some pointing to general area information or different entities. Given the potential for changes since 2021, it would be wise to verify its current status and specific offerings directly if planning a visit, perhaps via the contact details provided in older listings.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Bermondsey Fayre (Boutique & Yoga)
• Where: 212 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3TQ. Nearest Tube: London Bridge.  
• Open: Original 2021 hours: Noon–6 pm Tue–Thu & Sat, 11 am–6 pm Fri, noon–5 pm Sun. Current hours should be verified directly due to potential changes.  
• Types of Goods: Clothes and accessories by local/independent designers, ethically made products, eco-living items.  
• Price Range: Likely mid-range to higher, reflecting designer/ethical products.
• Family Perk: Potential for unique, ethically sourced gifts.
• More Info: bermondseyfayre.com  

Our Take: “Bermondsey Fayre sounded like a lovely spot for unique, ethically made clothes and gifts from local designers. When we last checked, they also had a yoga element! If you’re in the Bermondsey Street area, it might be worth seeing if they’re still there and what treasures they have – always good to support independent artists.”

Borough Market

A feast for the senses, Borough Market is London’s oldest food market and an absolute must-visit for any food-loving family. Nestled beside Southwark Cathedral, its atmospheric halls and passageways are crammed with over 100 stalls selling superb quality produce from across the UK and around the world. You’ll find everything from artisan breads, cheeses, and cured meats to fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, seafood, and handmade cakes and pastries. The street food offering is incredible, with a dizzying array of global cuisines to choose from – perfect for a family lunch where everyone can pick something different. From falafel wraps and Taiwanese bao buns to Greek meze and seafood wraps, there’s something to tempt every palate.  

The market is open Monday to Friday 10:00-17:00, Saturday 09:00-17:00, and Sunday 10:00-16:00. It can get very busy, especially on weekends; for a calmer experience, try visiting mid-week or early on a Saturday. Dogs are allowed on a leash. It’s a vibrant, bustling place that’s as much about the experience as the food itself.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Borough Market
• Where: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL. Nearest Tube: London Bridge.  
• Open: Mon-Fri 10:00-17:00; Sat 09:00-17:00; Sun 10:00-16:00.  
• Types of Goods: High-quality produce (fruit, veg, meat, fish, cheese, bread, pastries), international specialities, extensive street food, drinks.  
• Price Range: Varies from affordable street food to premium artisan products.
• Family Perk: Amazing array of food choices to please everyone, lively atmosphere, chance to try new things.
• More Info: boroughmarket.org.uk  

Our Take: “Borough Market is an absolute delight! The sights, the smells, the sheer variety of food is incredible. It’s the perfect place for a family lunch, as everyone can choose exactly what they fancy from the amazing street food stalls. We loved trying little bits from different places. Go hungry!”

Bermondsey Antiques Market

For treasure hunters and lovers of all things vintage, the Bermondsey Antiques Market, held every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square, is a fascinating experience. This is one of London’s oldest and most renowned antiques markets, attracting dealers, collectors, and curious tourists alike. You’ll find an eclectic mix of antiques and collectibles, including silverware, china, vintage furniture, glassware, jewellery, and all sorts of unique oddities. Many traders are seasoned experts with years of experience. Historically, the market operated under the “market overt” law (abolished in 1995), which added to its mystique.  

The market officially opens to early risers at 6:00 and closes by 14:00. Arriving early is key to spotting the best finds as a lot of business is done as stalls are setting up. While perhaps not a primary destination for very young children, older kids and teens with an interest in history or unique objects might find it intriguing. It’s a place for discovery and perhaps finding a truly unusual souvenir.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Bermondsey Antiques Market
• Where: Bermondsey Square, London SE1 3UN. Nearest Tube: London Bridge or Bermondsey.  
• Open: Fridays only, 06:00-14:00.  
• Types of Goods: Antiques, collectibles, silverware, china, vintage furniture, glassware, jewellery, oddities.  
• Price Range: Varies hugely, from small trinkets to valuable antiques. Bargaining may be possible.
• Family Perk: A treasure hunt for unique finds! Interesting for older children with a curiosity for the past.
• More Info: bermondseysquare.co.uk/bermondsey-antique-market-london/ or bermondseyantiquemarket.co.uk  

Our Take: “If you’re up for an early start on a Friday and love a good rummage, Bermondsey Antiques Market is fascinating. It’s a real old-school antiques market with tons of interesting bits and pieces. You never know what treasures you might unearth! Probably more for older kids who appreciate vintage finds.”

Oxo Tower Wharf (Shops)

Beyond the viewing gallery and restaurants, Oxo Tower Wharf is home to three floors of independent design shops and studios, making it a great destination for unique, contemporary gifts and homewares. You can browse and buy directly from innovative designer-makers specialising in fashion, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, lighting, and more. Shops like Archipelago Textiles (hand-woven accessories), Electrobloom (customisable 3D printed products), Josef Koppmann (individually crafted jewellery), KCHossack Pottery (handmade tableware), and Locomocean (cool, playful lighting and gifts) offer a diverse range. SUCK UK Alternative Gifts on the ground floor is noted for its eclectic and affordable items suitable for all ages, from kids’ stuff to quirky gadgets and London souvenirs. Many studios are open Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 to 18:00. La Gelatiera, an artisan gelato shop, is also located here – a guaranteed family pleaser!  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Oxo Tower Wharf Shops & Studios
• Where: Barge House Street, South Bank, London SE1 9PH. Nearest Tube: Waterloo or Blackfriars.  
• Open: Many studios/shops Tue-Sun 11:00-18:00. SUCK UK: Daily 10:00-19:00. Individual hours may vary.  
• Types of Goods: Contemporary design, fashion, jewellery, ceramics, homewares, lighting, unique gifts, artisan gelato.  
• Price Range: Varies from affordable gifts (SUCK UK) to high-end designer pieces.
• Family Perk: Unique, design-led gifts, SUCK UK for fun items, La Gelatiera for ice cream treats.
• More Info: oxotower.co.uk or coinstreet.org/oxo-tower-wharf-directory  

Our Take: “The shops at Oxo Tower Wharf are perfect for finding something a bit special and different. Lots of independent designers, so you can pick up really unique pieces. SUCK UK on the ground floor is brilliant for quirky gifts for all ages, and you absolutely HAVE to stop at La Gelatiera for some amazing ice cream!”

Konditor

For families with a sweet tooth, a visit to Konditor is a must! This urban village bakery has a cult following for its delicious cakes, and their brownies are legendary. While the PDF lists the Cornwall Road (Waterloo) branch, Konditor has several locations across London, including Gray’s Inn Road, Bow Lane, and Cullum Street. They offer a fantastic range of cakes, including personalised celebration cakes (like the Rainbow Happy Birthday Cake or Colour Splash Number Cake), seasonal crumbles (like Toffee Apple Crumble), and individual treats. They also have “Free From” options, including vegan brownies, and delightful biscuits like Parmesan Shortbreads. It’s the perfect place to pick up a special treat or a birthday cake if you’re celebrating during your trip. The Cornwall Road branch is open 10:00-17:00 Mon & Tue, 07:30/08:00-18:00/19:00 Wed-Sat, and 10:00-17:00 Sun.  

Family-Friendly Fast Facts:

• What: Konditor (Bakery)
• Where: 22 Cornwall Road, London SE1 8TW (original listing); also other locations.  
• Open (Cornwall Rd): Mon-Fri 07:30-19:00; Sat 08:00-18:00; Sun 10:00-17:00. Bank Holidays 10:00-17:00..  
• Types of Goods: Cakes (whole, slices, personalised), brownies, biscuits, desserts, crumbles.  
• Price Range: Individual treats are affordable; whole cakes are premium-priced (e.g., Rainbow Cake from £60, Toffee Apple Crumble £26).  
• Family Perk: Delicious cakes and brownies! Perfect for a special treat or celebration.
• More Info: konditor.co.uk  

Our Take: “If you need a cake fix, Konditor is the place! Their brownies are honestly out of this world, and their celebration cakes look incredible. It’s a lovely spot to grab a delicious treat to take away – perfect for a picnic or a birthday surprise.”