Fortnum & Mason: London’s Iconic Gourmet Department Store
Discover centuries of luxury and gourmet delights at Fortnum & Mason, London’s iconic Piccadilly department store since 1707.
Established in 1707, Fortnum & Mason at 181 Piccadilly is a historic London department store renowned for its luxury food products, exquisite hampers, and elegant dining experiences. With a rich royal heritage and a distinctive iconic clock, it offers a unique blend of gourmet delights, fine teas, and exclusive gifts across multiple floors in a beautifully preserved setting.
A brief summary to Fortnum & Mason
- 181 Piccadilly, London, W1A 1ER, GB
- +442077348040
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
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 quintessentially British afternoon tea experience.
- Look up at the famous Fortnum & Mason clock on the hour to see the founders’ figures bow to each other.
- Explore the Food & Drink Studio on the third floor for masterclasses and unique culinary events.
- Try the original Scotch egg, a Fortnum & Mason invention dating back to 1738.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
London Underground
Take the Piccadilly Line to Piccadilly Circus station, approximately a 5-minute walk to Fortnum & Mason. Trains run frequently, and the station is fully accessible. A single journey costs around £2.50 with an Oyster card or contactless payment.
-
Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Piccadilly Circus, including routes 14, 19, and 38. Buses run regularly throughout the day. A single fare is £1.75 using an Oyster card or contactless payment. Note that traffic can affect journey times.
-
Taxi or Ride-Hailing
Licensed London black cabs and ride-hailing services such as Uber can drop you off directly at 181 Piccadilly. Travel times vary with traffic, typically 15-30 minutes from central London locations. Expect fares from £10-£25 depending on distance and time of day.
-
Walking
If you are in central London near Piccadilly Circus or Green Park, walking to Fortnum & Mason takes about 5-10 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The area is pedestrian-friendly with accessible sidewalks.
Fortnum & Mason location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fortnum & Mason
Origins Rooted in Royal Service and Innovation
Founded in 1707 by William Fortnum, a footman in Queen Anne’s household, and his landlord Hugh Mason, Fortnum & Mason began as a small grocery shop in St James’s Market. Fortnum’s entrepreneurial spirit was sparked by repurposing leftover candle wax from the royal household, turning it into a profitable venture. This early innovation laid the foundation for a business that would become synonymous with quality and exclusivity. Over the centuries, the store evolved from supplying the British aristocracy with exotic imported foods to becoming a pioneer in ready-to-eat luxury meals and gourmet hampers.An Architectural and Cultural Landmark on Piccadilly
The flagship store at 181 Piccadilly, rebuilt in the 1920s in a Neo-Georgian style, stands as a distinguished London landmark. Its elegant façade features fanlights and decorative elements designed to invite discerning shoppers inside. Above the main entrance, the famous four-ton clock, installed in 1964, chimes every hour while mechanical figures of Fortnum and Mason bow to each other, symbolizing the founders’ legacy. The store’s iconic eau-de-nil green, inspired by architectural details, adorns packaging, signage, and the building exterior, making it instantly recognizable.A Treasure Trove of Gourmet Foods and Exclusive Products
Fortnum & Mason’s food halls are legendary, offering an unparalleled selection of fine teas, chocolates, preserves, and fresh delicacies from around the world. The store is credited with inventing the Scotch egg in 1738, a testament to its innovative culinary heritage. Visitors can explore multiple floors dedicated to gourmet food, kitchenware, beauty products, and elegant homewares. The store’s hampers, filled with luxury treats, have been a favored gift choice for centuries, especially popular with travelers and the London carriage trade.Dining Experiences and Modern Enhancements
Beyond shopping, Fortnum & Mason offers refined dining options including the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon and The Parlour, where guests can enjoy traditional afternoon tea and light meals in a sophisticated setting. Recent expansions have introduced a Food & Drink Studio, a cookshop, and an in-house distillery producing Amalthea Gin, blending heritage with contemporary tastes. Regular events such as masterclasses and talks enrich the visitor experience, making it a vibrant cultural hub.Enduring Legacy and Global Presence
Privately owned by Wittington Investments, Fortnum & Mason honors its centuries-old traditions while embracing modern retail trends. The brand has expanded beyond Piccadilly with stores at St Pancras International, Heathrow Terminal 5, Canary Wharf, and internationally in Hong Kong. Its commitment to quality and provenance continues to attract a diverse clientele, from local Londoners to global gourmets.Timeless Appeal in the Heart of London
Situated in the prestigious St James’s area, Fortnum & Mason remains a must-visit destination for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. Its blend of history, luxury, and innovation offers a unique shopping and dining experience that captures the essence of British heritage and craftsmanship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beau Brummell Statue
0.1 km
The bronze dandy who redefined men's fashion and paid the price for elegance.
St James's Piccadilly
0.1 km
Discover St James's Piccadilly, a stunning Anglican church blending history, architecture, and spirituality in the heart of London's bustling Piccadilly.
Burlington House
0.1 km
Discover the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Burlington House, home to London's prestigious art and geological institutions.
3 Savile Row
0.2 km
Explore Savile Row, London’s iconic destination for bespoke tailoring and timeless elegance in the heart of the fashion district.
Piccadilly & Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
London's dazzling heart: iconic neon lights, legendary Eros statue, and the pulsing epicentre of West End entertainment.
St James's Square
0.3 km
A historic garden square in the heart of London, blending Georgian elegance with centuries of social and political influence.
Pickering Pl
0.3 km
Explore the serene ambiance of Pickering Place, a hidden gem in London, perfect for a historical stroll and local flavor.
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.3 km
A hidden plaque in London marks the site of the Republic of Texas Legation, a unique chapter in Anglo-Texan history.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.3 km
Explore the Eros Fountain at Piccadilly Circus, a historical gem and vibrant symbol of London's cultural heartbeat amidst its bustling streets.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Piccadilly Circus in London, the iconic hub of entertainment, shopping, and nightlife that pulses with life.
Ziggy Stardust album cover
0.3 km
Discover the iconic Ziggy Stardust album cover location in London, a must-visit cultural landmark for music lovers and fans of David Bowie.
Piccadilly Circus
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of London at Piccadilly Circus, a lively hub of culture, entertainment, and iconic sights in the heart of the city.
Pall Mall
0.3 km
Pall Mall, a historic London street famed for royal heritage, pioneering gas lighting, and exclusive gentlemen’s clubs near St James’s Palace.
Savile Row
0.4 km
Explore the elegance of Savile Row, London's renowned street for bespoke tailoring and luxury fashion, where craftsmanship meets tradition.
Allies (Churchill & Roosevelt)
0.4 km
A life-size bronze sculpture on New Bond Street celebrating Churchill and Roosevelt’s historic wartime alliance and enduring friendship.
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, London’s oldest covered shopping arcade, where Regency elegance meets luxury boutiques and timeless charm in the heart of Mayfair.
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
Discover London's oldest Victorian shopping arcade, blending historic elegance with 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
Experience timeless Art Deco elegance, live jazz, and classic European dining in the heart of London’s St. James's at Quaglino's.
Golden Lion
0.2 km
Historic Victorian pub in St James, London, blending theatrical heritage with cozy charm and classic British fare.
Francatelli
0.3 km
Discover the elegance of British cuisine at Francatelli – where tradition meets modernity in every bite.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.3 km
Michelin-starred fine dining celebrating British produce with French technique in intimate Mayfair elegance.
Great British Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience authentic British cuisine at its finest with modern flair in London's Great British Restaurant.
Kricket Soho
0.3 km
Discover modern Indian cuisine at Kricket Soho, where traditional flavors meet contemporary dining in London's vibrant heart.
NOPI
0.4 km
Discover the unique fusion of Mediterranean flavors at NOPI, London's premier destination for exquisite dining experiences.
Mele e Pere
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Mele e Pere in London's vibrant Soho district; where tradition meets contemporary flair.
Wild Honey St James
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in a historic Pall Mall setting, blending French culinary artistry with elegant yet relaxed sophistication.
Bantof
0.4 km
Explore Bantof in London - where modern European cuisine meets artistic flair in a vibrant cocktail bar setting.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.4 km
Experience the opulence of French-British cuisine at Bob Bob Ricard Soho, where every meal feels like a celebration.
Blacklock Soho
0.5 km
Discover Blacklock Soho: London's premier chophouse offering mouthwatering steaks in a chic yet cozy setting.
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
Michelin-starred fine dining with panoramic Green Park views, innovative modern European cuisine, and impeccable service.
Evelyn's Table
0.5 km
A Michelin-starred chef’s table experience in the heart of Soho, where British ingredients meet Japanese and Scandinavian flair in a cozy, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Floris London
0.1 km
Discover the world’s oldest family-run perfumery, where centuries of fragrance history meet modern luxury and bespoke creations.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.1 km
Discover timeless British elegance and bespoke craftsmanship at Turnbull & Asser’s historic Jermyn Street flagship store.
John Lobb St. James
0.3 km
Discover timeless elegance and royal craftsmanship at John Lobb St. James, London's premier bespoke shoemaker since 1849.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.4 km
Explore Closet Case in Soho, London for unique men's fashion that blends style with individuality in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
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
French luxury heritage meets London elegance on the world's most exclusive shopping street.
Hamleys
0.5 km
Seven floors of toy wonder in London's most iconic toy shop since 1760.
Machine-A
0.5 km
Explore Machine-A, a premier boutique in London offering exclusive collections from emerging designers and the latest in contemporary fashion.
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.
JW Anderson London Soho
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant JW Anderson boutique in Soho, where contemporary British fashion meets exquisite craftsmanship and unique style.
Glassworks London - Soho
0.6 km
Explore the elegance of contemporary women’s fashion and accessories at Glassworks London, an essential stop in Soho for stylish shoppers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Disrepute - Soho
0.4 km
Experience the art of mixology at Disrepute, Soho's premier cocktail bar offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern sophistication.
Disrepute - Cocktail Bar in Soho
0.4 km
Experience the luxurious charm of Disrepute, Soho's premier cocktail bar, where exquisite drinks meet an enchanting atmosphere.
The Thin White Duke
0.4 km
Discover The Thin White Duke, an artistic cocktail bar in London offering innovative drinks, dim sum, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
Cahoots London
0.5 km
Experience the unique charm of Cahoots London, a cocktail bar that brings the nostalgia of 1940s London to life with exquisite drinks and vibrant ambiance.
Duke of Argyll
0.5 km
Discover the Duke of Argyll, a quintessential London pub offering classic fare, local ales, and a charming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Below
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Below Cocktail Bar – a hidden oasis in London with exquisite drinks and an inviting atmosphere.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at All Bar One Leicester Square, the ideal spot for wine and cocktail enthusiasts in London.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.6 km
Discover Opium Cocktail Bar in Soho, a unique fusion of Eastern flavors and modern mixology for an unforgettable night out.
The Blind Pig at Social Eating House
0.6 km
Discover The Blind Pig at Social Eating House, London’s hidden bar offering innovative cocktails and a cozy atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Blind Pig at Mary's est. 2024
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of London at The Blind Pig at Mary's, a bar known for its unique cocktails and cozy atmosphere.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Hampshire Restaurant and Bar, where British tradition meets modern flair in the heart of London's Leicester Square.
Basement Sate
0.7 km
Discover Basement Sate, a vibrant cocktail bar in London, offering creative drinks and a chic atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Black Book
0.7 km
Discover The Black Book in Soho, London's premier wine bar offering exquisite wines and delightful small plates in a chic atmosphere.
Bar Soho
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Soho, a premier cocktail bar in the heart of London, known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
Henson's Bar and Social
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture of London at Henson's Bar and Social, where unique drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Elegant
- Scenic
- Unique
- Boutique
- Relaxing
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
- Architectural Shots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
