Shops and Markets
For serious shoppers, Canary Wharf has over 200 stores, located in airy and sophisticated malls. Quality high street and designer names are well represented here. There are also many cafes and restaurants in the malls. Waterside bars, pubs and restaurants all offer an al-fresco setting during fine weather.
Many independent fashion designers and gift shops are located in and around Spitalfields and Brick Lane. Stall holders at the Spitalfields Sunday Market also focus on creative fashions and unusual gifts. Greenwich Market, on the south of the river, is famous for its antiques and crafts stalls.
The famous Columbia Road Flower Market in Bethnal Green is held every Sunday. This highly colourful and busy market has hundreds of plants, flowers, shrubs, bedding plants and bulbs on sale. Lots of independent shops can be found here too.
If you want a relaxing break from shopping, there are several spas in the area, as well as award-winning hairdressers and beauty salons.
A visit to one of East London's markets is a must. As well as experiencing the traditional market atmosphere, you'll see lots of quirky and unusual products on offer in the small independent shops nearby.
Find the best places to shop in Londons Eastside on our interactive map
To view an interactive version of our Quirky Shopping Guide please click here