Harrods

Harrods is one of the world’s famous department stores, strongly associated with its home city and a distinctive aesthetic. You only need to see those signature green bags to know that you are in Knightsbridge, one of the most exclusive areas of London. The place is awash with money and glamour. Some people who live here allegedly only shop at Harrods, such is the depth of their pockets. It’s easy to believe when you see lime green Lamborghinis with a fan of parking tickets under the windshield, probably completely forgotten about by their owners.

Harrods has more than a million square feet of space, and 330 departments spread over seven floors. Its motto is Omnia Omnibus Ubique — All Things For All People, Everywhere. In truth it’s not really affordable for all people, but it does attract some 15 million customers a year, and you can certainly find just about anything there.

Humble Beginnings

Harrods began in 1849, in a single room. Charles Henry Harrod founded it, and they mainly sold tea (of course). It steadily expanded and moved upmarket. It was refurbished in a palatial style, with a frontage clad in terracotta tiles depicting cherubs, whirling Art Nouveau windows and a baroque-style dome to top it off.

In 1898 it became home to one of the world’s first escalators. During World War II it went from selling luxury goods to making uniforms and parachutes for Lancaster bombers. It’s all-English roots have taken a knock in recent years as the store is now owned by Mr Al Fayed. He has added some of his own touches, including the Egyptian room, which is adorned with busts of himself. You are also not allowed to wear beach shorts, swimwear or flip-flops inside. Luckily, one rarely does in London.