A Fun and Fabulous Tourist Guide to Visiting Harrods
If you’re in London and looking for a taste of luxury, history, and a dash of the surreal, then Harrods is calling your name! Harrods isn’t just a department store; it’s a landmark, a destination, and an experience like no other. From its historic architecture and world-famous food halls to an endless array of luxury goods, here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your visit to London’s most iconic department store.
1. The Legend of Harrods: A Quick History Lesson
Let’s start with a bit of backstory, because Harrods isn’t just any shop. It all began in 1834 when Charles Henry Harrod opened a humble grocery store. Fast forward to today, and Harrods spans seven floors and over a million square feet of retail space, making it one of the largest and most famous department stores in the world. With over 330 departments, you could practically live here!
Harrods has served some legendary customers, including members of the British royal family, celebrities, and fashion icons. Stepping through the doors isn’t just a shopping trip; it’s like entering a piece of London’s history, blending old-world elegance with modern-day extravagance.
2. Where It’s At
Harrods is located in the posh neighborhood of Knightsbridge, right on Brompton Road. The building itself is hard to miss: with its palatial architecture, terracotta facade, and an eye-catching display of lights that illuminate the store every evening, it’s practically begging to be explored.
Address: 87–135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London
Closest Tube Station to Harrods: Knightsbridge (just a short walk away)
3. When to Visit Harrods
Harrods is open daily, but if you want to avoid the crowds, aim for weekday mornings. That’s when you’ll have a little more breathing room to browse without getting swept along by the wave of shoppers. The holiday season is especially magical (and especially packed) as Harrods pulls out all the stops with stunning Christmas displays and seasonal decor.
Harrods Opening Hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm
- Sunday: 11:30 am – 6 pm
Pro Tip: During sale periods, Harrods is even busier than usual, so plan accordingly!
4. Don’t Miss the Food Halls
Harrods has six incredible food halls that are, without exaggeration, a feast for the senses. The food halls are known for their Art Deco interiors, mouth-watering aromas, and an endless array of gourmet goodies. Here’s a quick tour of what to expect:
- The Bakery: Home to fresh pastries, cakes, and bread that are baked daily. Be prepared to queue, especially if you’ve got your eye on a pastry from their famous bakery.
- The Chocolate Hall: A must for chocoholics! Rows of artisanal chocolates, hand-made truffles, and bars make this place as much an art gallery as a candy shop.
- The Fromagerie: Yes, Harrods has an entire hall dedicated to cheese. Try to resist the allure of French bries, Italian parmesans, and English cheddars that practically beg for a tasting.
- The Meat & Fish Hall: You don’t have to buy to enjoy browsing this selection of beautifully presented seafood and fresh cuts, but be prepared to start feeling peckish.
Insider Tip: Treat yourself to afternoon tea or a light bite at The Harrods Tea Room if you want a truly British dining experience with a view of the bustling store.
5. Luxury Shopping Galore
Harrods is a paradise for luxury shoppers, with entire sections dedicated to high-end fashion, accessories, and jewelry. Whether you’re window shopping or ready to splurge, some highlights include:
- Designer Clothing Rooms: Harrods showcases nearly every luxury brand under the sun, from Chanel and Dior to Louis Vuitton and Prada. The Shoe Heaven section alone is worth a visit.
- Fine Jewelry: The jewelry department glitters with some of the world’s most prestigious brands. Even if you’re not in the market for a diamond necklace, the opulence of this section is worth a browse.
- Perfume Hall: This glamorous section is home to a vast selection of fragrances, from niche perfumes to classic favorites. And yes, there’s always someone on hand with a spray sample!
Fun Fact: Harrods has its own dress code. They take their luxe seriously, so avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops or beachwear.
6. Souvenir Shopping: The Iconic Harrods Green Bags
No visit to Harrods is complete without taking home one of their famous green-and-gold shopping bags. These eco-friendly totes are chic, practical, and a lasting memento of your visit. You can find branded merchandise on the lower floors, including classic Harrods teddy bears, tea, and their exclusive food items, which make great souvenirs and gifts.
Pro Tip: Pick up a tin of Harrods loose-leaf tea or biscuits as a gift (or treat for yourself). They come in beautifully designed tins that are perfect for reusing.
7. The Egyptian Escalator: A Journey in Itself
As surreal as it sounds, Harrods has an Egyptian Escalator that’s practically a tourist attraction in itself. The store’s previous owner, Mohamed Al-Fayed, commissioned this piece in the 90s, and it remains a quirky yet grand touch. The design is opulent and over-the-top, with faux hieroglyphs and sphinx sculptures lining the walls. Even if you’re not an ancient Egypt buff, it’s worth a ride.
Insider Tip: The escalator leads to multiple levels of shopping and is often less crowded than the other escalators, making it a good way to get around the store.
8. Luxury Services and Experiences
Harrods offers more than just shopping; it’s about the experience. The store provides unique services, from personal shopping and spa treatments to exclusive tailoring. Here are a few must-tries if you’re looking to really indulge:
- Personal Shopping: If you want a curated shopping experience, book a session with a Harrods personal shopper. They’ll help you find that perfect item and even style it to fit your look.
- The Wellness Clinic: Need some R&R? The Harrods Wellness Clinic offers everything from beauty treatments to yoga sessions. Perfect for unwinding after a day of retail therapy.
- Pet Spa: Harrods even has a pet spa, because why should humans have all the fun? Treat your furry friend to a grooming session, complete with fancy pet shampoos and a designer haircut.
9. Snap a Photo of the Memorials
One poignant stop in Harrods is the Diana and Dodi memorials, a tribute to Princess Diana and Dodi Al-Fayed, placed by Mohamed Al-Fayed after their tragic passing. It’s a respectful and quiet part of the store, with a memorial that includes a bronze statue of the couple. While the memorial may be a bit understated compared to the rest of the opulent surroundings, it’s a solemn reminder of the family’s connection to Harrods and a tribute to two much-loved figures.
10. Know Before You Go: Practical Tips
- Bag Size Restrictions: Harrods has a bag-size policy for security, so leave any oversized bags or backpacks at home or check them at the store.
- Photography: While taking photos is allowed in most parts of the store, some areas are photo-free zones. Be mindful of signs, and always ask staff if you’re unsure.
- Plan to Spend a Few Hours: Harrods is massive! With so much to explore, it’s best to carve out a good chunk of time – anywhere from two to four hours – to fully enjoy all it has to offer.
In Summary
Harrods isn’t just a place to shop; it’s a place to get lost, to discover, and to experience a little slice of luxury. From designer boutiques and tasty treats to quirky Egyptian escalators and one-of-a-kind experiences, Harrods is a world unto itself, right in the heart of London.
