not just a shop
Discover one-of-a-kind designs by UAL's rising stars at this not-for-profit haven on High Holborn, where every purchase fuels creative futures.
Nestled on bustling High Holborn, not just a shop showcases unique homeware, fashion, gifts, jewelry, ceramics, and artworks crafted exclusively by University of the Arts London students and alumni. This not-for-profit venture reinvests all proceeds into UAL's enterprise education, nurturing emerging creative talents while offering visitors one-of-a-kind, design-led treasures in a compact, inspiring space.
A brief summary to not just a shop
- 272 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EY, GB
- +442075142277
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-3 pm
- Thursday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Check the website for upcoming open calls and new product drops to snag limited-edition items before they sell out.
- Opt for gift wrapping or cards available in-store for thoughtful, ready-to-give presents.
- Browse fine art sections for unique prints and sculptures, perfect for collectors seeking originals.
- Visit mid-week during peak hours (11am-3pm, Tue-Fri) for the fullest selection and staff insights on makers.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
not just a shop location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about not just a shop
Gateway to Emerging Creativity
Tucked into the vibrant artery of High Holborn, not just a shop opens a window into the boundless imagination of University of the Arts London's (UAL) students and alumni. This intimate retail space brims with handcrafted items that blend innovation with craftsmanship, from delicate ceramics to bold fashion accessories. Each piece tells a story of its maker's journey, selected through rigorous open calls by panels of UAL staff, students, and industry experts. The shop's not-for-profit ethos sets it apart, channeling every sale back into enterprise programs that equip the next generation of designers with real-world skills in branding, pricing, and retail dynamics.Diverse World of Design Offerings
Wander the shelves to discover a curated array of categories: stationery alive with witty illustrations, jewelry that marries traditional techniques with modern flair, homeware like stackable glass mugs and stoneware vases, and limited-edition prints capturing raw artistic energy. Souvenirs, games, toys, beauty products, and even small furniture pieces round out the collection, emphasizing sustainability, British manufacturing, and upcycled materials. Fine art shines in rotating displays of paintings, sculptures, textiles, and photographs, available on a sale-or-return basis to highlight high-value works without space constraints overwhelming the cozy interior.Launch and Enduring Mission
Debuting in autumn with a launch collection featuring talents like Tatty Devine, Crispin Finn, and Kangan Arora, the shop quickly established itself as a hub for distinctive style. Curated by experts attuned to creativity and craftsmanship, these inaugural pieces set a high bar, focusing on eco-conscious designs and timeless appeal. Beyond commerce, it doubles as a learning laboratory during off-hours, mirroring gallery and retailer operations to immerse students in commercial realities.Curated Makers and Cultural Threads
Meet makers like Anisha Oliver, whose vibrant illustrations draw from Jamaican and Ghanaian roots, or Seda, exploring sustainable materials through water-inspired patterns. These creators, fresh from UAL colleges, infuse products with personal narratives—sunflower motifs symbolizing creative joy, or repurposed plastics in playful pouches. The biannual open calls ensure fresh rotations, keeping the inventory dynamic and reflective of London's diverse creative pulse.Compact Space, Immense Impact
Though small, the shop's layout maximizes discovery, with eye-catching displays inviting lingering exploration. Seasonal highlights, like Christmas baubles in felt and ceramic or exclusive tea towels, add festive charm without compromising the core focus on originality. Proceeds fuel UAL initiatives: workshops, funding, competitions, and one-on-ones, creating a virtuous cycle that sustains artistic ambition in a competitive industry.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sicilian Avenue
0.3 km
Discover Sicilian Avenue, a serene Edwardian pedestrian street in London blending Italianate architecture with charming shops and tranquil ambiance.
190 High Holborn
0.5 km
A modern office landmark in central London, blending contemporary design with strategic connectivity near historic Holborn.
Bomber Harris Memorial
0.5 km
A solemn tribute to RAF Bomber Command’s leader and airmen, set within the historic St Clement Danes Church in London’s Temple district.
St Clement Danes Church
0.6 km
Historic London church and Central Church of the Royal Air Force, famed for its Wren architecture, RAF memorials, and iconic 'Oranges and Lemons' bells.
Prince Henry's Room
0.6 km
Discover a rare Jacobean timber-framed treasure on Fleet Street, rich with history, ornate plasterwork, and tales from London's past.
Bow St
0.6 km
Bow Street, a historic London street famed for pioneering policing, vibrant theatre, and rich cultural heritage in Covent Garden.
Hidden London - Aldwych Station
0.6 km
Discover Aldwych Station, a hidden gem in London that unveils the city’s rich transport history through guided tours and captivating stories.
Hare Pl
0.7 km
Discover Hare Place in Temple, London—a serene historic enclave steeped in centuries of legal tradition and architectural charm.
Temple Church
0.7 km
Medieval fortress of faith where crusading knights shaped English law and history.
The Old Watch House
0.7 km
A quaint early 18th-century parish watch house on London’s Strand, offering a rare glimpse into pre-Metropolitan Police community policing.
National Trust - Strand Lane "Roman Bath"
0.7 km
Explore the Strand Lane Roman Bath, a fascinating glimpse into London's ancient Roman history amidst modern attractions.
Royal Opera House
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking performances and rich history of the Royal Opera House, a premier destination for opera and ballet enthusiasts in London.
Hodge The Cat Statue
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Hodge The Cat Statue in London, a delightful tribute to literary history and a must-visit for cat lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Bleeding Heart Yard
0.7 km
London's most haunted courtyard, where Gothic legend meets gritty Victorian history beneath ancient cobblestones.
St. Peter's Italian Catholic Church
0.7 km
A basilica-style sanctuary where Italian faith, architectural brilliance, and community memory converge in historic Clerkenwell.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sir John Soane's Museum
0.1 km
Explore the extraordinary preserved home and collection of Sir John Soane, a masterpiece of architecture and eclectic art in central London.
London Silver Vaults
0.3 km
Explore the world’s largest underground silver marketplace beneath historic Chancery Lane, where centuries of craftsmanship shine behind steel vault doors.
The Honourable Society of Lincoln's Inn
0.3 km
Explore the historic legal heart of London at Lincoln's Inn, where centuries of law, architecture, and tradition converge in a serene urban oasis.
The Old Curiosity Shop
0.3 km
A charming Tudor-era timbered shop in London, steeped in Dickensian legend and offering a rare glimpse of Elizabethan architecture amid the modern city.
Staple Inn
0.3 km
Discover Staple Inn, London’s last Tudor timber-framed Inn of Chancery, a historic legal and wool trading hub that survived fire, war, and centuries of change.
Princess Louise
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Princess Louise, a must-visit gastropub in London's Holborn district.
The Seven Stars
0.4 km
One of London’s oldest pubs, The Seven Stars blends centuries of history with a lively legal atmosphere and eclectic charm in Holborn.
Peacock Theatre
0.4 km
A dynamic West End venue dedicated to contemporary dance and innovative performances in a historic yet modern setting.
Black Cab Heritage Tours
0.4 km
Uncover London's rich history and vibrant culture aboard a classic black cab with personalized tours from Black Cab Heritage Tours.
Bloomsbury Square Garden
0.5 km
Discover Bloomsbury Square Garden, London's serene historic square blending 17th-century heritage with tranquil green space in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Smallest Street in London
0.5 km
Discover Emerald Court, London’s famously narrow alley, a hidden passage steeped in history and architectural contrasts in Bloomsbury.
Freemasons Hall, London
0.5 km
Discover London's iconic Art Deco Freemasons' Hall, a grand memorial and Masonic headquarters rich in history, symbolism, and stunning architecture.
Persephone books
0.5 km
Explore the unique literary treasures of Persephone Books, a London bookshop dedicated to uncovering forgotten works by women authors.
The Maughan Library
0.5 km
Explore London's grand neo-Gothic Maughan Library, a historic fireproof archive turned vibrant university research hub at King's College London.
Gillian Lynne Theatre
0.5 km
Experience world-class musicals and iconic performances in the heart of London’s West End at the historic Gillian Lynne Theatre.
Essential places to dine
Margot
0.5 km
Sophisticated Italian dining with classic charm and an extensive wine list in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Sarastro
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean flavors and live musical theatre in the heart of Covent Garden’s most theatrical restaurant.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Vietnamese street food in the heart of Covent Garden, blending vibrant flavors with a lively, cozy atmosphere.
Ikoyi Restaurant
0.6 km
Discover Ikoyi, London’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant blending bold West African spices with British ingredients in an elegant, sensory tasting journey.
Inamo Covent Garden
0.7 km
A futuristic Pan-Asian restaurant in Covent Garden where interactive tables meet bold Asian flavours in a sleek, tech-forward space.
Cicchetti by San Carlo - London Covent Garden
0.7 km
Experience authentic Venetian small plates and seasonal Italian flavors in a stylish, lively Covent Garden setting.
Circus
0.7 km
Experience Covent Garden’s vibrant Asian fusion dinner theatre where culinary artistry meets captivating live performances.
Balthazar
0.7 km
Experience the lively charm of a Parisian brasserie with classic French cuisine in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Flesh & Buns Covent Garden
0.8 km
Lively Japanese izakaya in Covent Garden famed for its signature bao buns, vibrant atmosphere, and innovative pan-Asian small plates.
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
0.8 km
Savor expertly grilled British steaks and vibrant seafood in a historic Covent Garden brewery setting with atmospheric charm and refined cocktails.
Chez Antoinette
0.8 km
Authentic Lyon-inspired French bistro serving classic tartines and cozy café fare in the heart of Covent Garden, London.
Punch & Judy
0.8 km
Historic Covent Garden pub blending classic British fare, lively balcony views, and family-friendly charm in the heart of London.
Palm Court Brasserie
0.9 km
Experience authentic Parisian charm and classic French cuisine in the vibrant heart of Covent Garden at Palm Court Brasserie.
Frog by Adam Handling Restaurant Covent Garden
0.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred modern British cuisine with theatrical flair and sustainable luxury in the heart of Covent Garden.
Cora Pearl Covent Garden
0.9 km
Elegant modern British dining in Covent Garden with iconic chips, soulful vibes, and a nod to a glamorous past.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
not just a shop
0.0 km
Discover unique, handcrafted art and design by UAL’s students and alumni at this creative retail hub in central London.
Twinings - The Strand
0.6 km
Discover over 300 years of tea heritage at London’s oldest tea shop, featuring historic charm, premium tastings, and a unique museum experience.
The Store X
0.6 km
A visionary space where London’s fashion, art, and culture converge in an immersive, innovative experience.
Fancy That of London
0.7 km
Discover unique London souvenirs and charming keepsakes in a warm, inviting shop just opposite the British Museum on Great Russell Street.
Rokit Covent Garden
0.7 km
Dive into retro treasures at Rokit Covent Garden, where sustainable vintage fashion meets London's vibrant street style heritage on Shelton Street.
Blackout II - Vintage Clothing London
0.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures from the 1920s to the 1980s in Covent Garden’s iconic Blackout II boutique.
Pop Boutique
0.7 km
Discover authentic vintage fashion treasures from the 50s to 90s in a colorful, retro boutique at London’s vibrant Seven Dials.
Brandy Melville - Covent Garden
0.7 km
Trendy Italian-LA fusion on Neal Street: one-size-fits-most chic for the effortless Covent Garden style seeker.
Urban Outfitters
0.8 km
Dive into Urban Outfitters' warehouse wonderland in Seven Dials, where eclectic fashion, cult beauty, and quirky homewares fuel London's youth culture vibe.
Good
0.8 km
Discover sustainable style with curated preloved vintage and designer fashion at Good London’s Seven Dials shop.
London Transport Museum - Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique transport-themed gifts and iconic London memorabilia at the London Transport Museum Shop in Covent Garden.
Neal's Yard Dairy (Covent Garden Shop)
0.8 km
Discover the finest British and Irish farmhouse cheeses matured to perfection in the heart of Covent Garden’s vibrant Neal’s Yard.
MUJI Covent Garden Store
0.8 km
Discover Japanese minimalism in Covent Garden: timeless clothing, sustainable homewares, and functional stationery for clutter-free, mindful living.
Sass & Belle Covent Garden Market
0.8 km
Quirky gifts and whimsical homeware in Covent Garden's lively market—permanently closed in-store, thriving online with cute finds for every home.
The Moomin Shop London
0.8 km
Step into the enchanting world of Moominvalley at The Moomin Shop in Covent Garden, London’s magical haven for fans of Tove Jansson’s beloved characters.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Duke
0.5 km
A classic Bloomsbury pub offering warm hospitality, traditional drinks, and hearty British fare in a cozy setting.
Be At One - Russell Street
0.6 km
Covent Garden’s vibrant cocktail bar with 100+ drinks, late-night parties, and unbeatable 2-for-1 happy hours in a stylish basement setting.
Plume Wine Bar
0.7 km
Covent Garden speakeasy in Dickens' old offices: sparkling wines from afar, cheesy sharing plates, and note-passing to strangers in candlelit luxury.
Be At One - Covent Garden Lyceum
0.7 km
Shake up your night in Covent Garden with 100+ cocktails, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclasses in a historic spot pulsing with theater-district energy.
Dirty Martini - Covent Garden
0.7 km
Glamorous Covent Garden cocktail haven pulsing with martini magic, bottomless brunches, and late-night DJ vibes under sparkling chandeliers.
Crusting Pipe
0.8 km
Covent Garden wine bar pouring Davy’s finest ports amid live music, British classics and cosy nooks—perfect for pre-theatre indulgence or market rendezvous.
Fitz's Russell Sq.
0.8 km
Discover Fitz's Russell Square, a glamorous cocktail bar blending Victorian elegance with modern British cuisine in the heart of Bloomsbury.
The Escapologist Bar
0.8 km
Step into a Victorian-inspired underground bar in Covent Garden where theatrical cocktails and lively entertainment create unforgettable nights.
The Coral Room
0.9 km
Experience 1920s-inspired glamour and expertly crafted cocktails in the vibrant coral-hued heart of Bloomsbury Hotel.
Eve Bar Covent Garden
0.9 km
Subterranean Covent Garden cocktail bar tempting with zero-waste elixirs, decadent snacks, and Eden-inspired glamour beneath a Michelin-starred haven.
Beaufort Bar
0.9 km
Step into the Beaufort Bar’s jet-black and gold Art Deco glamour for exquisite cocktails, live sultry music, and a timeless London night out.
Prelude by Oriole
0.9 km
A refined Covent Garden cocktail bar blending innovative drinks, Latin American fusion cuisine, and live music in a stylish Asian-inspired setting.
American Bar
0.9 km
Step into London’s oldest cocktail bar, where over a century of mixology mastery meets elegant Art Deco charm at The Savoy.
Mrs Riot
0.9 km
Covent Garden's technicolor riot: punk-pop cocktails, drag brunches, live DJs, and Kitty Clive's rebellious legacy in one explosive venue.
Punch Tavern
0.9 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Carwash Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
The Roxy
0.8 km
Soho's unbeatable happy hour cocktail bar by day, pulsing nightclub with live music and DJ nights till 3am—affordable vibes in London's nightlife heart.
Comedy Carnival Covent Garden
0.8 km
London's premier stand-up comedy venue showcasing bold, award-winning international comedians in vibrant Covent Garden.
Proud Late
0.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
The Ivy Club
1.0 km
Art-Deco‑tinged members’ club above The Ivy — piano bars, discreet private dining and polished West End glamour.
Whatdafunk Presents West End Urban Disco
1.0 km
Dive into London's grooviest urban disco beats at Whatdafunk, where Covent Garden's streets pulse with funk, soul, and non-stop dance energy in the heart of the West End.
Club49Soho
1.1 km
Soho's stylish cocktail haven with DJ-fueled dancefloor energy, blending upscale drinks and classy nightlife vibes until 3am.
La Capannina Club
1.1 km
Discover Soho's discreet gentlemen's club: seductive stage shows, cosy vibes, and late-night allure in London's nightlife heart.
London Best Night Clubs
1.1 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
Zoo Bar & Club
1.2 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.
Heaven
1.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
The Penthouse London
1.3 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
St Moritz Club
1.3 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
Sophisticats Soho
1.3 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Fun-filled
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly