National Geographic Store

The vast National Geographic store on Regent Street cost, rumour has it, close to £6 million and it's spread over three-floors occupying 19,375 sq ft (1,800 sq m) of prime real estate space. Launched at the height of the 2008 credit crunch, the store's opening was a brave move, not least because this is the first store ever from this non-profit organisation founded in 1888. Pitched as "a new and exciting way to explore the planet", the shop includes branded clothing, footwear, stationery, maps, travel books, home furnishings and an upmarket travel agents. All things outdoors-y are here - they even recreate simulated outdoor weather conditions so you can test your purchases against the elements before you buy. The family friendly cafe puts the emphasis on organic food and fair trade and there's a dedicated studio and exhibition space - not surprising, given the magazine's reputation for awe-inspiring photography. Interactive visual displays and lectures from some of National Geographic's well known explorers, authors and photographers help visitors explore the planet under one roof. To top it all, if you spend money here you can do so in the knowledge that all profits help fund the National Geographic's exploration, conservation, research and education programmes.