Fortnum & Mason

The Royal Family's favourite food hall, Fortnum & Mason is one of the oldest and most famous stores in Piccadilly, if not the capital. After 300 years of trading, this historic department has a pre-war gentility; its gilded furnishings and exquisitely wrapped produce offer an appealing anachronism in today's modern age of convenience. Quintessentially English, this historic department store owes its royal patronage to William
Fortnum's grandson, Charles's years of service with Queen Charlotte. Still the purveyor of food and wine to the Royal Family, Fortnum's is a must-see for anyone visiting London. Opened by Messrs Fortnum and Mason in 1707, the store has supplied provisions during both the Napoleonic and Crimean wars. Despite stocking a solid range of accessories, perfumes, furniture and homeware, the shop is, understandably, famed for its fantastic, upmarket food hall piled high with gastronomic delights and adorned with chandeliers and marble pillars. Some of the delicacies here are a little overpriced but the quality is exceptionally high. If youre visiting London in the summer months and want to sink your teeth into a top-notch picnic hamper, look no further; Fortnum's has supplied hampers to high society types at events such as the Henley Regatta and the Ascot Races. Even if you're not a foodie, the shop itself is worth a visit just to check out the fantastic decor. It is also an excellent place to pick up a gift. All the delicacies and luxuries on sale here come so beautifully packaged you won't want to open.

Best for:
Hampers and Champers, kings and queens, princes and pies.