Perhaps the two best shopping streets in the area are High Street Kensington and King's Road, and in the latter's case, offer quite a history. Both offer the usual bunch of stores plus special one-offs. For those into markets, Portobello Road is highly recommended, situated just behind Notting Hill Gate. For big department stores, there is none better than the world famous Harrods and this is closely followed by Peter Jones in Sloane Square, and the slightly smaller Barkers in High Street Kensington. Harrods IS expensive, but it is well worth visiting, even if you do not attend to buy anything, because of the beautifully decorated departments. Visiting the enormous food hall, on the ground floor, is an absolute must. You might also enjoy having a cappuccino and a snack in one of the numerous cafes. Peter Jones is a more reasonably priced store.

High Street Kensington seemingly has it all. Visit the famous Kensington Market for small (unusual) fashion outlets and opposite it is the more high-tech and fashion label filled Hype DF. The newly opened Urban Outfitters is huge and offers everything from hip clothes to inflatable armchairs to Urban Decay cosmetics. There's also a Tower Records here and is fine for your basic music needs although nowhere near as big and well-stocked as the one in Piccadilly Circus. Bookstores are slightly limited, but no matter, as the wonderfully tranquil Waterstones should suffice. (For real book lovers, go to the recently opened giant Borders bookstore at 205 Oxford Street. It is the 8^th wonder of the world.)

For serious shoppers, the best thing is to buy the Time Out London Visitors' Guide (£4) as they cover shopping over ten pages.

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