Fancy That of London – A Classic Souvenir Shop Opposite the British Museum
A classic London souvenir shop opposite the British Museum, offering traditional British gifts and keepsakes in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Tucked opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street, Fancy That of London is a long-standing gift shop offering a wide range of traditional British souvenirs. From Union Jack mugs and London-themed postcards to quirky keepsakes and classic London memorabilia, it’s a go-to spot for visitors wanting a tangible reminder of their trip. The shop is bright, well-organised, and open daily, making it easy to pop in for a quick browse or thoughtful gift.
A brief summary to Fancy That of London
- 48 Great Russell St, London, WC1B 3PA, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-9 pm
- Saturday 9 am-8 pm
- Sunday 9 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or just after the museum opens to avoid the busiest crowds, especially on weekends.
- Look out for small, affordable items like postcards, keyrings, and fridge magnets if you’re after quick, lightweight souvenirs.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the British Museum – it’s right across the street, making for a seamless cultural and shopping stop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Fancy That of London location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fancy That of London
A London Souvenir Institution
Standing opposite the grand entrance of the British Museum, Fancy That of London has been a familiar sight for decades, serving as one of the capital’s oldest dedicated souvenir chains. Its location in the heart of Bloomsbury places it at the crossroads of history, culture, and tourism, making it a natural stop for visitors exploring the museum or wandering through central London. The shop proudly presents itself as a keeper of classic British giftware, offering a curated mix of items that capture the spirit of London in a tangible, often playful way.What You’ll Find Inside
Inside, the shelves are filled with a broad selection of quintessential British souvenirs: red telephone box miniatures, double-decker bus models, Union Jack flags and accessories, London skyline prints, and a wide array of postcards featuring iconic landmarks. There are also tea sets, mugs, scarves, and novelty items that lean into British stereotypes with charm rather than kitsch. The layout is straightforward and shopper-friendly, with clearly arranged sections that make it easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re after a small token for a friend or a more substantial keepsake, the range caters to a variety of tastes and budgets.Shopping in the Shadow of the Museum
Its position directly across from the British Museum gives it a special role in the visitor experience. After hours spent among ancient artefacts and world-class collections, many tourists appreciate the chance to step into a shop that offers a more contemporary, accessible slice of British culture. The staff are generally helpful, and the atmosphere is that of a traditional high-street gift shop – not flashy, but dependable and familiar. It’s the kind of place where you can quickly pick up a few postcards, a small gift, or a fun item to remember your trip, all in a matter of minutes.A Practical Stop for Tourists
The shop is open daily with extended evening hours on Fridays, making it convenient for both daytime museum-goers and evening visitors. Prices are in line with what you’d expect for central London souvenir shops: reasonable for what they are, with many small items available at accessible price points. While it doesn’t focus on high-end or artisanal crafts, it excels at offering a reliable, no-frills selection of souvenirs that are distinctly British and unmistakably London. For many, it’s less about finding something rare and more about capturing a moment in a simple, tangible way.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
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For the view chaser and sunset hunter
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For the social media creator & influencer
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly