England Travel Guide

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Shopping

Major cities boast fashion from national designers such as Burberry and Stella McCartney. Wedgwood, Crown Derby, Royal Doulton and Royal Worcester all produce renowned china and porcelain. Luxury food can be bought from independent shops such as the famous Harrods, and Fortnum & Mason in London. Antiques are in shops and markets all over the country, and local crafts, such as trug baskets in Sussex, make great souvenirs.

London's markets are certainly worth a rummage, including Portobello Road in Notting Hill; Columbia Road flower market, and Bermondsey for antiques. Borough Market on the South Bank is an excellent food market.

Tax-free shopping: Many shops throughout the country now operate a tax-free shopping scheme for overseas visitors. The store provides a form that should be completed at the time of purchase. Upon arrival at Customs, present the goods and the forms (within three months) to be entitled to a refund of Value Added Tax (VAT).

Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900/0930-1730; in London and other large shopping centers, shops may stay open to 2000. Most cities have at least one night a week of late night shopping until 2000, usually on Thursday. Large shops and supermarkets shops open Sun 1000/1100-1600/1700.