So when I started looking for ideas for this weekend, a trend quickly began to emerge. And because it’s not going to be as lovely as last weekend, although fine to be outside, I thought I’d roll with it. And so, here are a few activities for a weekend of shopping…..
Southwark and Bankside
Mellie J Showroom Spring Sample Sale
In celebration of mellie j cleaning out her wardrobe for Spring, designer samples from LAGA of Spain will be featured at this one day event, at 75% off retail prices. The theme will be A Wardrobe Spring Fling with all pieces offered at £50 and under, including clothing, handbags, and jewellery. Sunday, 1st April from 12pm to 5pm at The Goldsmith Pub & Dining Room in Southwark. Borough Market
Borough Market
Not far away is the wonderful Borough Market, London’s most renowned food market. Borough has long been synonymous with food markets and as far back as 1014, London Bridge attracted traders selling grain, fish, vegetables and livestock. Nowadays, this hugely popular foodie spot is packed from Thursday to Saturday with tourists and locals clamouring over local produce to take home and gorgeous treats to eat on the go.
Tate Modern
Not a predictable shopping destination, the Tate Modern has more to offer than an incredible venue and international modern art. Their shop is a treasure trove for gift ideas and super fun to browse.
Peter Layton: Homage to Hockney
Celebrating the Hockney exhibiton at the Royal Academy this Spring, Peter Layton has created a number of beautiful blown glass pieces which are now on sale from £500 at the London Glass Blowing Studio and Gallery in Bermondsey.
Out East
Secret Sample Sale
The Old Truman Brewery is a hot spot for pop-up shops and vintage markets, but this weekend it will host the ever popular Secret Sample Sale. Established in 2003, the sale brings together London designers, agencies and boutiques to clear their samples and excess stock at up to 90% discount from the retail price, including Marc Jacobs, Ferragamo, Ralph Lauren, See by Chloe, Joseph, Balenciaga and Tofu (just a few of my favourites from the list!). It’s £1 to get in, and be sure to be early to grab the real treasures!
A Most Curious Wedding Fair
I first came across Rebecca and her treasure trove of vintage props whilst sourcing for an Alice in Wonderland party last year. Her company, A Most Curious Party started life in Bethnal Green, so it seems fitting that they host their first London Wedding Fair at York Hall. Expect florists incorporating sweets into bouquets…. professional hair and make-up stylists to help you get a perfect 1940′s look….. vintage crockery and decor…. retro hen night ideas….. and plenty of tea and cake! It’s £3 entry, but brides to be get in at a discounted £2!
Covent Garden and around
London Transport Museum Shop
Right in the heart of Covent Garden, the shop at The London Transport Museum is a haven for gift buying. All themed around London and its transport network, there are some surprisingly inspiring home wares to be found here, as well as a great selection of cards and stationery.
Pick Me Up: Contemporary Graphic Art Fair
Pick Me Up showcases the best new work from around the world, with original works and prints available to purchase from just £10. It finishes this Sunday, so be quick and head along to Somerset House before it’s gone again until next year. It’s £8 to get in.
She-Bop-A-Lula
And whilst you’re on The Strand, visit She-Bop-A-Lula at the Strand Gallery, which also finishes this Sunday. Featuring over 60 pictures of some of the most iconic female singers from the last six decades (all taken and donated by women photographers), the exhibition is raising funds for the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Charity and selling prints from £200.
Out West
The Big Egg Hunt Shop at Selfridges
You’ve found some of the hundreds of eggs scattered all over London, now hunt down stacks of gifts at the Egg Hunt’s shop in Selfridges…. and then maybe spend the rest of the weekend mastering your egg decorating skills with one of their paint-your-own sets!
Enjoy all your shopping endeavours this weekend!
Ems x





Thank you for the wonderful ideas. We are headed to London tonight (from the US) and I wrote down your ideas! Thanks!
Have a safe trip! And I hope you have a great time!
There are lots of London-based ideas for things to do in my ‘Ideas for your weekend’ and ‘Things to see and do’ catergories….. r if you’re in need of some more ideas just leave me a comment and I’ll be happy to help!