What Is the Largest Department Store in London?

By Alice Nichols

London is a city that is known for its shopping. It has a variety of stores and boutiques that cater to every budget and taste. Among the many options available, department stores are one of the most popular choices for shoppers.

They offer a wide range of products under one roof, making it easy to find everything you need in one go. But what is the largest department store in London? Let’s explore.

What Is a Department Store?

Before we dive into the details of the largest department store in London, let’s first define what a department store is. A department store is a retail establishment that offers a wide range of products across various categories, such as clothing, accessories, beauty products, home goods, and electronics. It typically has multiple floors and sections dedicated to each category, making it easy for customers to navigate and find what they are looking for.

The Largest Department Store in London

The largest department store in London is Harrods. Located in Knightsbridge, it spans over 1 million square feet across seven floors and boasts over 330 departments. The store was founded in 1834 by Charles Henry Harrod as a small grocery shop but later expanded to become one of the most iconic retail destinations in the world.

History of Harrods

Harrods has an interesting history that dates back to its humble beginnings as a small grocery shop. In 1849, Charles Digby Harrod took over the business from his father and expanded it into different categories such as perfumes, clothing, and accessories.

In 1883, the store caught fire and was rebuilt on an even larger scale with additional floors added to accommodate more departments. It continued to grow over the years with new halls being added for furniture, toys, sports equipment, and more.

What Does Harrods Sell?

Harrods offers a wide range of products across various categories such as fashion, beauty, food, and home goods. Some of the most popular departments include:

  • Fashion: Harrods has a vast selection of designer clothing and accessories for men, women, and children from brands such as Gucci, Chanel, and Prada.
  • Beauty: The beauty department at Harrods is one of the largest in the world and features luxury brands such as La Mer, Tom Ford Beauty, and Jo Malone.
  • Food: The food hall at Harrods is a gastronomic wonderland with over 20 different sections featuring everything from fresh produce to exotic delicacies.
  • Home: From furniture to bedding to kitchenware, Harrods has everything you need to decorate your home in style.

The Harrods Experience

Shopping at Harrods is not just about buying products but also about experiencing the luxurious surroundings. The store features stunning architecture with intricate details such as marble floors and ornate ceilings. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can take a break from shopping and indulge in some delicious food.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Harrods is the largest department store in London with over 1 million square feet of retail space. It offers a wide range of products across various categories and provides a luxurious shopping experience that is unmatched by any other store. If you’re ever in London, be sure to visit Harrods for an unforgettable shopping experience!