Don’t know what gifts and souvenirs to bring home after your travel in London? Don’t have that much space in your suitcase to bring home things you won’t love? Check out our list of 15 things you need to take with you!
Want to know how best to spend your time in London? Check out Our Ultimate London Guide
Don’t have long in London and want to know how to spend it? Check out Our 3 Days in London Itinerary: Unforgettable London Guide
Souvenirs:
*Disclosure: We only recommend products we would use ourselves and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links, that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.
Harry Potter Merchandise
Nothing says London more than some gifts from the Harry Potter Store. The flagship store located at Kings Cross, where the magical Platform 9 3/4 is said to exist. While you are at the store you will also have the opportunity to be able to take your photograph with the trolley going through the platform. There are so many different Harry Potter Souvenirs you’ll be able to find something for people of all ages.
If you have more time while you’re in London to can head to Warner Brothers Studios where you can truely immerse yourself in the sets from the Harry Potter films. While you are there you can also get yourself a butter-beer with a keepsake cup. The gift store here is very vast with many different types of souvenirs such as wands, chess sets, uniforms and more.
British Biscuits
Biscuits are a quintessential part of British culture going way back to the times of long-distance boat travel. They were developed as a convenient snack that traveled well, making it an ideal treat to haul home in your luggage. Since the days of grand boat voyages, biscuits have become a beloved sweet treat enjoyed with the country’s famous afternoon tea tradition.
What’s even better about these treats is that there isn’t just one kind; a few popular options include Hobnobs, ginger nuts, Chocolate digestives, Custard Creams, Jammie Dodgers, and even vegan and gluten-free varieties. In London, you’ll find sleeves of biscuits lining supermarket shelves, souvenir shops, and even at fancy bakeries. On average, a packet of these treats is just a couple of pounds at a Supermarket like Tesco, Waitrose, or Marks and Spencer.
If you want something unique and freshly baked, head to London’s vegan and gluten-free-friendly bakery, Arapina. You’ll find home-made Jammie Dodgers, gingerbread, oat biscuits, and many others here.
When you get home, it’s best to enjoy these with a cup of hot tea — there’s no better way to think back on your time in London.
By Rebecca Gade Sawicki of Veggies Abroad
Football Merchandise
London is the home of football, everywhere you go and everything you do while here in London will have a reference to football in a way. Some of Londons most well known clubs are Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United. If you are an Arsenal fan you can spend your time while in London touring Emirates Stadium. While there make sure to pick up a shirt or other merchandise for those bugging young fans at home.
Cookbooks
London known for its food scene has no shortage of resturants which would make the perfect gift to take to someone who has a passion for cooking.
Well known chefs such as Jamie Oliver of Gordon Ramsey all have their own cook books that could be purchased as gifts.
Jamie Oliver known for his fast and healthy dinner options has his cook book 15 Minute Meals which showcases some great nutritional meals for adults and families. You can also visit the Jamie Oliver Cookery School while here in London to immerse yourself in learning some of Jamies cooking techniques. Sunday a small but popular cafe by Alan Turner and Terrence Williamson has their own brunch cookbook for fast breakfast staples worth sharing. There are also cookbooks from iconic resturants all around London including The Borough Market Cookbook, Hawksmoor, Trullo and Dishoom. All cook books can be purchased online or at the locations around London.
Fortnum and Mason
Fortnum & Mason is British luxury department store established in 1707. Located in London’s Piccadilly Circus it has long been cherished for its high quality products and exquisite services.
The store stocks a diverse array of goods from teas and confectioneries to fine wines and homewares. Purchasing a souvenir from Fortnum & Mason allows you to bring back some of that English charm with you.
Not sure where to go for a coffee while in London. Read Our London Coffee Guide: Best Coffee Spots in London to find out where!
Gifts from Harrods
If you’re looking for one of the best souvenirs to buy in London then you cannot beat Harrods. After all, Harrod’s Limited sits on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge and is easily one of the most famous department stores in the world.
And that’s because not only do they have an incredible Egyptian room for you to explore, but the historic building actually dates back to 1905.
It’s also an enormous place that currently houses 300 departments and 20 delicious restaurants. They also offer High Tea at the Harrods Tea Room which could be a great place for your next couples day in London.
Now, in terms of shopping, you can purchase everything from high-fashion to gourmet food items. But, some great English-inspired souvenirs for you to take home include English Breakfast Tea, a Harrods Tote , a Christmas ornament, a tea set, a Harrod’s teddy bear, and Selamlique Mastic Turkish Coffee.
But, if you’re looking to spend a little extra money then you can splurge and get one of their luxury handbags since this store is known for its high fashion. And if you’re short on cash then you can always find great stuff in their sale section too.
However, if you’re not sure what to buy then just ask one of their friendly sales associates since this iconic store is known for its impeccable customer service.
By Linda of Linda on the Run
London Gin
London Gin is one of the best souvenirs to buy when visiting London. Not only is it a delicious and unique drink to enjoy, but it has an amazing history and flavour profile that makes it stand out from other spirits.
With its predominant flavour of juniper berries, London gin is a popular choice around Christmas time – but you can find it year-round. Popular London Gin Distilleries are Tanqueray London Dry Gin, Bombay Sapphire and Sipsmiths which you can find in most supermarkets. But if you want something extra special, go to one of the many local distilleries around London.
Dating from 1689, London Dry Gin is made by macerating natural botanicals in 96% ABV neutral spirit (usually grain-based) before distilling a second time, with added juniper berries for flavour. This gin is different from others as it is not sweetened at all, giving it a unique taste.
Many cocktail lovers will use London gin in their drinks as a special touch – so why not try it out with your favorite recipes?
London gin makes for a great gift – whether it’s for a friend back home or to bring with you when you leave! There’s nothing quite like sipping on some delicious London gin.
If you love to taste traditional drinks, then make sure you take a trip to Wales when visiting London. They do amazing whiskeys and beers that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
London gin makes for a great gift – whether it’s for a friend back home or to bring with you when you leave. So, if you’re looking for an authentic memento from your London vacation, grab yourself some London gin!
By Lowri Thomas of Many Other Roads
English Phone booth
If you’re looking for one of the most iconic souvenirs from London, then anything related to the iconic London red telephone booth is perfect!
I mean, have you really been to London if you didn’t take a photo of a telephone booth? They’ve become one of the most used symbols of London in photographs, films, and postcards.
So if you’re looking for a souvenir that perfectly symbolizes London (or that simply shouts “I visited Londnn” without the obvious “I love London” design) the red telephone booth has got to be it.
And the best part?
You can literally find anything with the booth.
T-shirts? Check!
Mugs? Check!
Fridge magnets? Check!
Bags? Check!
British biscuit boxes? Check!
Seriously, you name the item and I guarantee you can find one with a print of a phone booth in a London souvenir shop.
Two of my personal favorite telephone booth items are bookends and a piggy bank in the shape of a phone booth. The first one is the perfect way to add a bit of the London flair to your bookshelf. And the piggy bank is the ultimate motivation to help you save more pennies for your next trip to London! It’s actually one of my favorite travel-themed piggy banks too.
By Lara Hartog of The Best Travel Gifts
Paddington
The first book about the Paddington Bear Book came out in 1958 and since then there have been more than 20 books published as well as two films.
It is said that the author once saw a lonely bear left on the shelf in Selfridges and bought it for his wife. The name Paddington came from the train station they lived next to whilst the main storyline was based on his childhood. When growing up during the war he saw other children having to evacuate from London to his hometown.
Paddington is an orphan bear from Peru. After a fire destroys the jungle where he lived his aunt has to go into a home for retired bears. She sends him to London. All he has with him is a suitcase and a note saying, ‘Please look after this bear, Thank you’.
Kindness, compassion and helping someone from a far away land are values which run through the books. This is likely why it remains as popular today as when it first came out.
Paddington Bear was a good friend of the late Queen and when she died over a thousand bears were left in tribute from the remote Scottish highland to outside Buckingham Palace in London.
At Paddington Station there is a whole shop dedicated to Paddington Bear souvenirs. They have everything from mugs, board games, books, DVDs, t-shirts and of course teddy bears. If in doubt, always go for the Classic Paddington Bear in Boots.
By Kristin from Scotland Less Explored
London Transport
London transport including taxis and the red double decker bus are some of the most iconic things of the city. The best place to find transport themed souvenirs is The London Transport Museum.
The London Transport Museum is in the heart of central London located in Covent Garden, which is located on the Piccadilly Line. Visitors can climb aboard different vehicles and experience what it would be like to drive a bus or old tram while also gaining a deeper appreciating of the way that London’s transport networks keeps the city alive.
Transport souvenirs include double decker buses, taxis and even items printed with tube themed material. There are also lots of transport themed prints which make a souvenir to decorate your home with after your time in London.
Union Jack Memorabilia
A Union Jack flag or Union Jack themed memorabilia is a great souvenir or gift to buy in London, whether for yourself or for a friend! The Union Jack is the national flag of the United Kingdom and holds historical importance to the people of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland as it represents the unity and historic connections of the different countries within the UK.
The striking iconic appearance of the red, white and blue Union Jack flag makes it instantly recognizable worldwide. It is a powerful symbol of British identity and heritage and is often associated with British pride and patriotism.
Its eye-catching pattern has been widely used in fashion, home decor, and artwork over the years, making it a popular and stylish choice for souvenirs.
In shops all across London, you’ll find many Union Jack-themed souvenirs and gifts at very reasonable prices. From small items like keychains, magnets, and mugs to larger items like clothing, bags, decorative items and even the full-size flags, there is a vast array of options to choose from. You’ll even find Union Jack memorabilia with quotes about London on them. Whether you’re looking for something practical or decorative, there’s bound to be a Union Jack-themed item for you!
By Catrina of 24 hours Layover
Antiques
Part of London’s appeal to International travellers is its rich history and timeless charm. From wandering the many winding cobblestoned streets to having a pint in a pub that is older than your grandfather, London offers a wide variety of things to do that will captivate the history lover.
Even better, you can bring part of that amazing past back to your home country with you, so that you never forget your holiday! London is a veritable treasure trove of antique and vintage items, which make for some of the best souvenirs, that are not kitschy or tacky!
The city has many antique and vintage markets, from the famous Portobello Road Market (with over 1500 stalls!) at Notting Hill and Camden Passage to lesser known ones such as Bermondsey Square Antique Market and Brick’s Lane. There, you can pick up any number of authentic old items, each with their own stories to tell.
The things on offer range from practical items such as well-preserved furniture, delicate porcelain teacups and elegant Victorian jewellery to decorative items such as vintage artwork, coins or maps. These remnants of London’s fascinating past will make tangible reminders of the amazing time you spent in the country!
By Zhou Zhenru from alovelettertoasia
For more London markets check out Our Guide to Food Markets of London: Street Food in London you Must Try
Tea Set
When it comes to finding the best souvenirs in London, there’s one item that perfectly captures the essence of this tea-loving city: a teapot or tea set. London is renowned for its vibrant tea-drinking culture, and no visit to the capital would be complete without indulging in the delightful tradition of afternoon tea. From elegant tea rooms to quirky experiences like Mad Hatter’s Tea, there’s a wealth of options to satisfy your craving for a quintessentially British experience.
To commemorate your time in London and continue the cherished tea-drinking ritual at home, a teapot or tea set makes for a truly fantastic choice. Two notable brands to consider are Fortnum and Mason and Liberty’s. With a history dating back to 1707, Fortnum and Mason is renowned for its exquisite teapots and sets that exude British refinement. On the other hand, Liberty’s showcases a distinctive collection that blends tradition with contemporary designs, resulting in beautiful and functional pieces that capture the essence of modern tea culture.
London’s tea-drinking heritage is woven into its cultural fabric, and embracing it through a teapot or tea set ensures a lasting connection to this time-honoured tradition. So, before bidding farewell to London, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the abundance of afternoon teas on offer and seek out the perfect teapot or tea set from one of London’s many esteemed establishments. By doing so, you’ll not only bring home a beautiful souvenir but also a piece of London’s rich history and the tea-loving spirit that makes this city so enchanting.
By Goya Galeotta from goyagaleotta.com
Prints and Postcards
If you’re looking for affordable and easy-to-find souvenirs in London, consider prints and postcards!
These inexpensive paper items are available at most landmarks and area gift shops. You can send postcards to your home address as an easy way to travel journal or you can pick up small prints as souvenirs to add to a travel-themed gallery wall back home. (Hint: ticket stubs and museum passes can be free souvenirs that make interesting elements to display in a travel-themed gallery wall). These paper items are especially great souvenirs for carry-on only travelers or folks who plan to be on the road awhile- postcards can be mailed home and small prints can be carefully stored in a cardboard sleeve in any suitcase.
Sending postcards home from London is a surprisingly fun approach to souvenirs- you’ll get to enjoy them twice as they arrive after you return from your trip! Don’t be afraid to get creative with your postcards by adding notes about funny moments, doodles and sketches of London landmarks, or even photo-stickers made with a travel printer. Once you’re home, it’s easy to compile your postcards into a mini travel journal that will be fun to revisit over the years.
If you’re looking for souvenirs for loved ones, you can also send postcards to friends and family back home. Sending someone a postcard during your trip means so much more than a text or email- ir shows them they’re important enough to you to take time out of your vacation to choose a postcard, write a message, and send it. Learn more about how to send a postcard.
By Lynli Roman of WanderBig
Royal Memorabilia
The royal family in London is the most popular family of the country. The royal line dates back to the 10th century when William the Conquer was on the throne. Monarchs from England include some well known names such as Henry VIII and his daughter, Elizabeth I and the late Elizabeth II.
There are a lot of different royal souvenirs out there depending who you are buying for. For young children there are many different royal books, toys including those of the royal guards and much more. If you’re looking for an adult gift then a plate or royal mug is a great item to purchase.
Want to head out of London? Check out Our Guide to Day Trips from London: Best Places to visit by Train from London
