Background

Oxford Street, London’s Premier Shopping Destination

Europe’s busiest shopping street, Oxford Street offers iconic department stores, high-street fashion, and vibrant retail energy in central London.

4.6

Oxford Street is Europe’s busiest and most famous shopping street, stretching about 1.2 km through central London. It hosts over 300 shops, including flagship department stores like Selfridges, John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, and popular high-street brands such as Zara, H&M, and Primark. Known for its vibrant retail atmosphere, extended shopping hours, and a mix of luxury and affordable fashion, Oxford Street offers an unparalleled shopping experience for visitors and locals alike.

A brief summary to Oxford St

  • London, GB
  • Duration: 2 to 6 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit flagship department stores like Selfridges and John Lewis for luxury brands and unique shopping experiences.
  • Shop late on Thursdays when many stores extend their hours until 9pm for late-night shopping.
  • Explore nearby streets such as Regent Street and Carnaby Street for boutique shops and additional dining options.
  • Use Oxford Circus Underground station for central access to the busiest part of Oxford Street.
  • Plan your visit on weekdays or Saturdays to avoid the busiest Sunday trading hours and enjoy longer shopping times.
widget icon

Oxford St location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

Unlock the Best of Oxford St

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Oxford St

A Historic Hub of Retail Excellence

Oxford Street has long been synonymous with shopping in London, evolving over centuries into a bustling retail artery at the heart of the city. Its origins date back to a Roman road, but today it is renowned as the busiest shopping street in Europe. The street’s layout connects key underground stations—Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus, and Tottenham Court Road—making it easily accessible and a natural magnet for shoppers from around the world.

Flagship Stores and Department Store Grandeur

Dominating Oxford Street’s retail landscape are iconic department stores such as Selfridges, John Lewis & Partners, and Marks & Spencer. Selfridges, located at 400 Oxford Street, impresses with its grand Greek-inspired façade and offers luxury fashion, beauty halls, tech, and gourmet food halls. John Lewis provides a wide range of quality home goods, fashion, and electronics, recently enhancing its beauty hall to feature over 175 brands. Marks & Spencer blends fashion, food, and home products, currently undergoing redevelopment to modernize its flagship store.

Diverse Shopping for Every Budget and Style

Beyond the department stores, Oxford Street is a haven for high-street fashion lovers. Brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo line the street, alongside Primark, which offers trendy and affordable fashion across a vast 6,500 m² space. Sportswear enthusiasts find flagship Nike and Adidas stores, while beauty aficionados enjoy numerous specialist shops. The street’s diversity ensures that visitors can find everything from budget-friendly items to premium designer pieces all in one place.

Extended Hours and Vibrant Atmosphere

Most shops on Oxford Street open from 9am to 8pm Monday to Saturday, with some extending hours until 9pm, especially on Thursdays for late-night shopping. Sundays have shorter hours, typically from noon to 6pm, in line with UK trading laws. The street buzzes with energy, especially during festive seasons when Christmas lights and events create a lively atmosphere. Pop-up shops, live music, and seasonal promotions add to the dynamic shopping experience.

Nearby Attractions and Culinary Delights

Oxford Street is surrounded by other notable shopping areas such as Regent Street and Carnaby Street, offering boutique shops and luxury brands like Liberty London and Burberry. For a break from shopping, visitors can explore nearby cafes and gastropubs, including the Lamb & Flag in St. Christopher’s Place, which serves traditional British fare. The area also features a variety of international dining options, making it a full-day destination for shopping and leisure.

Accessibility and Transport Links

The street’s central location is well served by multiple London Underground lines, with Oxford Circus station at the heart of the street’s busiest section. Double-decker buses run frequently along Oxford Street, providing convenient transport options. The pedestrian-friendly layout and proximity to other West End attractions make Oxford Street a key part of any London visit.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Oxford St

Popular Hotels near Oxford St

Select Currency