Woollen and woven goods such as Harris Tweeds are famous. Printed cottons and silks are to be found, as well as fashionable ready-made clothes. China and porcelain Wedgwood, Crown Derby, Royal Doulton and Royal Worcester are good buys, as are luxury food and chocolates. Antiques are to be found all over the country. In London, Charing Cross Road is famous for bookshops, and there are several street markets: Petticoat Lane for clothes and Bermondsey for antiques, to name just two. Tax-Free Shopping: Many shops throughout the country now operate a tax-free shopping scheme for overseas visitors.

The store will provide a form that should be completed at the time of purchase. Upon arrival at Customs, present the goods and the forms (within three months) to the Customs Officer, who will stamp the vouchers certifying that the goods are being exported, and that you will be entitled to a refund of Value Added Tax (VAT). For further information, contact the British Tourist Office which will be able to supply details.

Shopping hours

In major cities, Mon-Sat 0900-1730; in London’s West End and other large shopping centers, shops stay open to 2000. Many local shops stay open to 1900 or 2000 and some even later; many of these are open on Sunday morning or all day. Larger shops will open Sun 1000-1600. Some towns and areas of cities may have early closing one day a week, usually Wednesday or Thursday.