Fortnum & Mason: London's Iconic Luxury Food Emporium
Historic luxury food hall and iconic London emporium offering gourmet delights, royal hampers, and timeless British tradition since 1707.
Established in 1707 at 181 Piccadilly, Fortnum & Mason is a historic London department store renowned for its luxurious food hall, exquisite hampers, and elegant tea salon. With royal warrants and a legacy of supplying the British monarchy and armed forces, it remains a symbol of British tradition, offering a unique blend of heritage, gourmet delicacies, and refined shopping experiences in the heart of London.
A brief summary to Fortnum & Mason
- 181 Piccadilly, London, W1A 1ER, GB
- +442077348040
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-8 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 11:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon for a quintessential British afternoon tea experience in an elegant setting.
- Explore the Food Hall’s extensive selection of teas, chocolates, preserves, and artisanal cheeses for unique gourmet gifts.
- Check out the iconic Fortnum & Mason clock on the façade, where the founders bow every hour accompanied by historic chimes.
- Consider purchasing a classic Fortnum’s hamper, a luxurious gift box filled with curated British delicacies.
- Plan your visit Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm, or Sunday 11:30am to 6pm, noting that Sunday mornings are for browsing only.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Fortnum & Mason location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fortnum & Mason
Origins Rooted in British Tradition and Royalty
Fortnum & Mason was founded in 1707 by William Fortnum, a footman at Queen Anne’s court, and his landlord Hugh Mason. Originally a small grocery store in St James’s Market, it quickly became known for supplying high-quality provisions to the British aristocracy and royal households. The store’s close ties to the monarchy have been a cornerstone of its identity, earning it two royal warrants—one from The Queen and one from the Prince of Wales. Throughout history, Fortnum & Mason has supplied British armed forces in times of conflict, including sending beef tea to Florence Nightingale’s nurses during the Crimean War and provisioning officers during World War I.A Landmark at 181 Piccadilly
In 1840, the company invested in its now-iconic building at 181 Piccadilly, designed with elegant fanlights and decorative features intended to attract discerning customers, especially women. The store’s distinctive exterior is painted in its signature eau-de-nil shade, a color inspired by architectural features of the building and used consistently in its branding and packaging. The famous Fortnum & Mason clock, installed in 1964, features life-sized figures of the founders who emerge and bow every hour to the chime of bells cast at the same foundry as Big Ben, adding to the store’s charm and historic appeal.Gourmet Delights and Culinary Innovations
Fortnum & Mason is celebrated for its extraordinary food hall, which offers an extensive range of gourmet products including rare teas, fine chocolates, preserves, smoked salmon, and artisanal cheeses. The store claims the invention of the Scotch Egg in 1738, a portable and hearty snack perfect for travelers. Its famous hampers, filled with the finest delicacies, are a hallmark of British luxury gifting, often presented at prestigious events like Ascot and Wimbledon. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, opened by The Queen in 2012, offers a refined setting for afternoon tea, showcasing the store’s dedication to tradition and quality.Evolution and Modern Luxury
While deeply rooted in tradition, Fortnum & Mason has evolved to meet contemporary tastes. The addition of the atrium between 2005 and 2007 highlighted the diversity beyond chocolates, and the store now includes a Georgian-inspired beauty floor and several restaurants. The company supports sustainable agriculture and local producers, collaborating with the Prince of Wales to promote Welsh farm brands. Its product range also includes exclusive blends created for significant royal occasions, reflecting a blend of heritage and modern luxury.A Destination for Discerning Shoppers and Food Lovers
Situated in the heart of London’s West End, Fortnum & Mason attracts visitors seeking exceptional food, gifts, and dining experiences. The store’s elegant atmosphere, combined with its historic significance and commitment to quality, makes it a unique destination. Whether exploring the vast food halls, enjoying a tea in the salon, or selecting a bespoke hamper, visitors encounter a blend of British heritage and refined indulgence.Iconic Status and Cultural Significance
Fortnum & Mason’s legacy extends beyond retail; it is woven into British cultural history and culinary tradition. Its products have accompanied explorers, military expeditions, and royal celebrations. The store’s enduring reputation as a purveyor of luxury and quality has made it a symbol of British elegance and taste, celebrated both locally and internationally.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beau Brummell Statue
0.1 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
Burlington House
0.1 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
3 Savile Row
0.2 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
St James's Square
0.3 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
Pickering Pl
0.3 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.3 km
Step into the legendary London street where David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust persona was born on an iconic 1972 album cover.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.4 km
Explore the Charles De Gaulle Statue in London, a monument celebrating Franco-British relations and the legacy of a legendary leader amidst serene gardens.
St. James's Palace
0.4 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Waterloo Pl
0.4 km
Experience the historic elegance of Waterloo Place in London, where stunning architecture meets vibrant city life in a beautiful urban square.
Sir Keith Park statue
0.4 km
Discover the Sir Keith Park Statue in London, an inspiring tribute to a World War II hero amidst the beauty of Waterloo Place.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.0 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
Prestat Chocolates
0.0 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
Princes Arcade
0.1 km
Discover Princes Arcade, a historic London shopping passage blending timeless craftsmanship with modern menswear in the heart of Piccadilly.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Burlington Arcade
0.1 km
Step into Burlington Arcade, a historic 1819 luxury shopping gallery in London, where Regency charm meets exclusive boutiques and timeless traditions.
St James's Piccadilly
0.1 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a historic Wren-designed church blending artistic heritage and serene gardens in the heart of London’s vibrant West End.
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.1 km
Discover the rich heritage of British cheese at Paxton & Whitfield, London's historic cheese shop on Jermyn Street, featuring exceptional selections and gourmet delights.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.1 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Masons Yard
0.1 km
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
The Red Lion, Mayfair
0.1 km
Experience authentic British pub culture at The Red Lion in Mayfair, where history meets hospitality in the heart of London.
Jermyn St
0.1 km
Discover Jermyn Street, London’s iconic destination for timeless menswear, bespoke tailoring, and refined British craftsmanship in a historic setting.
Christie's London
0.2 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
28 The Royal Arcade
0.2 km
Step into London’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic elegance meets exclusive luxury boutiques in the heart of Mayfair.
Charbonnel et Walker
0.2 km
Discover over 150 years of British chocolate mastery and timeless elegance at Charbonnel et Walker in London’s Royal Arcade.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant crossroads of London’s West End where iconic lights, historic landmarks, and lively entertainment converge.
Essential places to dine
Quaglino's
0.1 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
Golden Lion
0.2 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.3 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Great British Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Kricket Soho
0.3 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
NOPI
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Mele e Pere
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Bantof
0.4 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.4 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Blacklock Soho
0.5 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Kingly Court
0.5 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
HIDE
0.5 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.1 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.1 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.4 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
Kingly Ct
0.5 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Bond St
0.5 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
LONGCHAMP
0.5 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Hamleys
0.5 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
Machine-A
0.5 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Regent St.
0.5 km
London's elegant mile of style, where Regency architecture meets world-class flagship stores and timeless shopping heritage.
Carnaby St
0.5 km
London's iconic fashion hub where 1960s counterculture meets contemporary style across 14 vibrant streets.
M&M'S London
0.5 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.6 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.6 km
Soho's avant-garde flagship: minimalist Shaker-inspired space brimming with gender-fluid luxury fashion, artisanal homewares, and exclusive collaborations.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
The Thin White Duke
0.4 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Cahoots London
0.5 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Duke of Argyll
0.5 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Below
0.5 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.6 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Duke Of Wellington
0.6 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.6 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
0.6 km
Soho's hidden speakeasy gem: storybook cocktails and Michelin bites in Prohibition-style elegance.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
The Admiral Duncan - Soho
0.7 km
Historic Soho gay pub and resilient LGBTQ+ landmark, symbolizing community strength and vibrant nightlife since the 1830s.
Basement Sate
0.7 km
Discover Soho’s chic basement bar where decadent desserts meet expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, stylish setting.
Ku Bar
0.7 km
Soho's legendary gay bar icon: three levels of inclusive vibes, cocktails, and basement beats in Chinatown's electric heart.
The Black Book
0.7 km
Soho's clandestine basement wine bar, pouring rare vintages by the glass alongside Mediterranean bites in a former members' club hideout—perfect for late-night indulgence.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scotch of St James
0.1 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
The Cuckoo Club
0.2 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
Tabu London
0.2 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.3 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tiger Tiger London
0.4 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.4 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
Luxe Club
0.4 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
0.6 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Sophisticats Soho
0.6 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
TSQ Club
0.6 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
The Penthouse London
0.6 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Sunset night club
0.6 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.7 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
St Moritz Club
0.7 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Elegant
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly