Unique and Unusual Luxury Shops

Be it art, literature, sport, architecture or shopping - unique and unusual is easy in London. London is also the city of reinvention. It constantly presents visitors and residents with new and exciting options.

In the shopping arena there are grand changes afoot in Canary Wharf, which is on track to become the largest, glossiest shopping mall in Europe. Below are some examples of unique and unusual London treasures.

Hamleys

Founded in 1760 as a small toyshop, Hamleys moved to its present location in Regent Street in 1881. Today it's the most legendary of toyshops. Covering seven floors the store has stocked the nurseries of The Queen and her children and promises to mesmerise children and grown-ups alike.

Floris

The Floris perfumery was established in 1730 by Jermyn Street comb maker and barber Juan Farmenias Floris, who, homesick for the floral scents of his native Menorca, began blending fragrant oils. Famous customers have included the dandy Beau Brummell, Florence Nightingale and Jackie Onassis. No 89 was chosen by Ian Fleming as the favourite scent of James Bond.

John Lobb

Founded in 1849, John Lobb is a traditional cobbler of the highest order. The made-to-measure shoe shop in St James’s Street is an amazing step back in time, and if you are a new customer expect to pay at least £2000 and wait for at least nine months for your handmade shoes.

James Smith & Sons

It shouldn't be too surprising to find a shop devoted to the making and the selling of umbrellas and walking sticks. James Smith & Sons opened in 1867 and is still run by the descendents of the original owners.

Daunt Books

There is nothing unusual about bookselling, but there is something unique about Daunt Books. Located in the increasingly popular Marylebone High Street this store with its oak galleries has been described as "airy and elegant, a temple of travel and literature".