Destination design - the U.K. edition
By: William MacDonald - January 14th, 2008
If you find yourself in London, England in the near future, and want to do some shopping, I suggest you forget the usual spots — Bond Street, Knightsbridge and Notting Hill.
My pick for best shopping ‘hood is Marylebone and its delectable “high street.” It’s the main drag of one of London’s most charming urban villages, and it’s full of what you need and want to live the good life with charm and style.
My saunter (I always saunter in London when shopping - it helps me see so much more) begins at the top of the road near Paddington. Then I stop at:
Entre Nous — a sweet café perfect for your morning cappuccino.
106 York St., London W1H 4QL tel. 0871 971 7541
If you find yourself missing the good ole’ days of the mid-20th century, pop into Sixty 6, which carries classic pieces of clothes and furniture from that extraordinary moment in time.
66 Marylebone High St., London, W1U 5JG tel. 020 7224 6066
Just down the street, Century Noho also showcases perfect pieces of mid-century modern, including Eames and Sarrinen.
68 Marylebone High St., London W1U 5JG tel. 020 7487 5100
Le Pain Quotidien is the best spot for lunch. Breeze in, plop yourself down at the long communal table and order away. The bread, like everything else, is delicious.
72 Marylebone High St., London W1U 5JW tel. 020 7486 6154 http://www.painquotidien.com
If you’re in the mood to buy some terrific art, Thompson’s is the place for you. Dealing in the best British paintings and sculpture, one could spend hours there!
76 Marylebone High St., London W1U 5JU tel. 020 7935 3595 www.thompsonsgallery.co.uk
Not far down the road is Emma Bridgewater’s joyous and colourful pottery, tableware and cookware - all English-made and hand-decorated. Such fun!!
81 Marylebone High St., London W1U 4QL tel. 020 7486 6897
www.emmabridgewater.co.uk
Sidle up to Skandium for classic Scandinavian furniture, lighting, rug and goods for home and office. So practical and so chic!
86 Marylebone High St., London W1U 4Q4 tel. 020 7935 2077 www.skandium.com
A few doors down you’ll find Cologne and Cotton. This bubbly boite stocks the loveliest, most luxurious bedroom and bathroom linens, as well as tablecloths for every occasion. You won’t be able to stop at just one…
68 Marylebone High St., London W1U 4Q4 tel. 020 7486 0595
After all that shopping, you may need a little pick-me-up. Not a problem. Neal’s Yard Remedies are within a few steps. With herbal and homeopathic remedies, essential oils, skin and hair-care products, purchases from this shop can help for weeks to come.
112 Marylebone High St., London W1U 4SA tel. 020 7935 0656
www.nealsyardremedies.com
Finally, finish as you start, with a wonderful coffee and bit of deliciousness at Paul, a boulangerie and patisserie that you will never forget. Tell them Bill sent you…..
115 Marylebone High St., London 4SA W1U
So there you have it. Tuck this little list in your tote and whip it out when you find yourself in London town. And remember to saunter so you don’t miss anything!
Talley Ho!
For a virtual tour of Marylebone Street, visit http://www.streetsensation.co.uk/marybone/mh1_west.htm