We’re going to shop!
We’re heading to Bond Street. It is one of the largest and most sought-after areas of real estate in Europe This haven of class has been the center of London’s top fashion scene since around the turn of the century. The place is renowned for its exquisite shops, fashion labels, designer stores and art galleries, as well as antique and fine jewelry shops, Bond Street is the place to go for shopping with luxury. Without further delay this is all you must learn regarding Bond Street!
There’s evidence that suggests that Bond Street has been a historical London landmark since the beginning of time–at at the very least, a Roman stone culvert that was discovered in 1894 suggests this. However, the street we know as was constructed in the 17th century. In 1683, a group of Georgian investors, led by Sir Thomas Bond, the namesake of the street, purchased Clarendon House from the 2nd Duke of Albemarle and demolished it in order to improve the area. The house was reconstructed and they constructed three roads: Albemarle, Dover and Bond Streets.
If you’re walking along the street today, you’ll likely observe that the street is split in two sections: Old as well as New Bond Streets. It’s since Sir Thomas Bond built only half of his street initially. This was before the New Bond bit was developed 14 years after. Fun fact: in early 1920s the city council attempted to merge the two streets into one Bond street, but locals would not be averse to it. Bond Street is still divided into two in the present and you can clearly see the division near Tiffany’s &Co’s flagship store.
In the early 1700s and the time when gorgeous Georgians paraded around street corners of London with their wigs that were powdered, anyone was believed to be a person must be photographed at Bond Street. Shop owners intentionally let people out of the upper floors to attract people like Jonathan Swift, William Pitt the Elder Admiral Horatio-Nelson as well as George Selwyn. The scandalously famous Georgiana Cavendish who was the Duchess Devonshire who favored its shops over those of Covent Garden.
The 19th century saw its fame as the preferred spot of the bourgeoisie for a night out began to fade however it was able to keep its status as the most luxurious retail place that we all are familiar with and enjoy to this day. As you can observe, there’s nothing to be said about the evolution of Bond Street, which has maintained its style as it was a century ago.
Things to do on Bond Street
So, get your shoes that are comfortable because you’re going to be doing a lot of walking and window shopping. Why wouldn’t you? Bond Street is home to some of the most famous stores such as Asprey, Cartier, Dolce & Gabbana, Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Ralph Lauren and Tiffany & Co. Bond Street’s had some spectacular display windows and shops.
Based on the order of prioritization, let’s start at Burlington Arcade. It was built around 1819, by Earl Burlington The arcade is filled with the finest antique jewelry shops and shoe shops as well as boutiques. The arcade connects Bond Street to Piccadilly, you’ll find shops such as Carrie Bradshaw’s most loved, Manolo Blanik, and Laduree, a French bakery that is famous for its double-decker macarons. Here’s a fun fact about the area: Burlington Arcade is protected by the Beadles which are the oldest and most compact Victorian uniformed guard force around the globe!
In 1781, the company was founded. Asprey is regarded as a leading supplier of high-end products. The flagship store, located on 171 New Bond Street, was built in 1830, and is among the oldest stores on the street. In Asprey, you can find anything from high-end jewellery that includes rare colored diamonds, to most exquisite silver and china items.
Beware of its sleek appearance, the department stores Fenwick (63 New Bond Street) has been catering to Bond Street’s extremely sophisticated customers since 1890. From home decor to incredibly priced makeup This “brilliantly British” store has everything. The department store is also king to wacky window displays and seasonally-appropriate entrance decor.
Louis Vuitton, found at 20 New Bond Street, doesn’t shun the flamboyant decor neither. It’s a must-have on every shopping list of the most discerning We can’t leave out the French designer of luxury handbags. In addition, its vibrant facade creates a stunning Instagram photo opportunity. Honorable mentions include The Ralph Lauren mansion at 1 New Bond Street; the Victoria’s Secret London flagship store located at 1111 New Bond Street with its amazing crystal staircase that is Instagram-worthy And Cartier located at 175 New Bond Street, whose Christmas decorations are perhaps the most beautiful one in the entire Bond Street.
Bond Street and its surroundings are also home to an impressive collection of Royal Warranties, including the official supplier of queenly pants Rigby & Peller, found close to Bond Street at 22A Conduit Street.
However, not everything revolves around the shopping scene at Bond Street! For the art lovers out there, the world-renowned auction house Sotheby’s has its London headquarters located at 35 New Bond Street. There are free art exhibitions, or, if looking for a daily dose of drama, you could also attend auctions at no cost. Right across the street from Sotheby’s is the Royal Academy of Arts, where you can attend the latest art exhibits and special events.
If you’re in need of an escape from all the walking, make a stop to talk or a chat with Roosevelt as well as Churchill himself on the Allies statue that is located right outside Asprey. The two old men are always having fun and are engrossed in a continuous conversation that seems to be quite enjoyable. In addition, they always show their best smiles for your photographs!
Last and not the least, take the time to stop at Claridge’s Hotel , located on Brook Street. It doesn’t matter if you’re stopping to enjoy a cup of tea (more about it in a moment!) or to see the most popular celebrities who are visiting the city This hotel is an absolute must-see in The Mayfair as well as Bond Street areas. The Claridge’s is particularly beautiful during the Christmas season, so make sure to visit and take in the festive façade with all its glory.
When should you go to Bond Street
If you’re planning on going shopping there, the most important thing to be aware of when you visit Bond Street is the stores opening hours. The majority of the shops are open from 10am-7pm from Monday to Saturday, and 12pm until six o’clock on Sundays. Burlington Arcade, on the contrary is open daily till 8pm, and the Royal Academy of Arts is open between 10am and 6:30 pm (except on Fridays, when the museum is open until 10pm). Apart from that it’s an ideal time to go to Bond Street — just be aware that it’s among the most crowded avenues in London and could be packed with visitors every day of the week.
The time of Christmas can be an ideal time to go to Bond Street, as the amazing Christmas decorations as well as window decorations are a complete delight for the senses. We suggest visiting Bond Street after sundown to take in the Christmas illuminations in all their splendor!
Bars, restaurants and bars close to Bond Street
The shopping spree must have left you hungry and you’re now in Mayfair and there’s numerous options to choose from. There’s nothing like having the perfect cup of tea to revive your spirits after a long day of shopping. And Mayfair is the home of some of the finest evening teas you can find in London. Visit the posh Claridge’s and The Ritz in Mayfair for a tea that is full of glitter and glamour or go towards Fortnum and Mason on Piccadilly Street to enjoy the classic of teas for afternoons.
If quality dining in a chic setting is what you are looking for the best option is to visit the restaurant to sketch. The restaurant that is awe-inspiringly pink is the top of the crop in Mayfair dining! From Michelin-starred dinners to nighttime cocktails, there’s numerous options to meet your mood at sketch.
Berkeley Square’s latest expansion, Amazonico, serves excellent exotic food that promises to transport you through the Amazon river as well as South America. Another excellent option if seeking the absolute top of Mayfair’s finest dining.
If you want to see the historic side of Bond Street, you should visit The Guinea for a pint. It’s been located in 30 Bruton Place since 1423, it’s one of the oldest pubs in London. If you’re looking for a night out you should try the famous (and slightly costly) steaks?