Knightsbridge

Knightsbrige is one of the most unchanged, attractive areas of central London, with little in the way of offices nearby but plenty of shops and restaurants to serve the needs of local residents. There are plenty of ways to spend money in this beguiling corner of the capital.

Harrods is the most famous of the local shops, a huge tourist attraction employing over 3000 staff in more than 300 departments. However, locals turn their nose up at this garish overcrowded place and much prefer Harvey Nichols, a chic alternative with three floors of designer wear, a huge beauty department and delectable delicacies on the fifth floor, all at extremely high prices. If you have the money to spend and want some designer clothes, look no further than Sloane Street. Christian Dior, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Armani, Alberta Ferretti, Nicole Fahri and Katharine Hamnett are all within doors of each other. There are also a number of exquisite specialist lingerie stores including Rigby & Peller on Hans Road and La Perla on Sloane Street itself. Finally, for home improvements on the Fulham Road, check out the Conran Shop for modern lines and chic timeless pieces, Divertimenti where Italian and French kitchenware comes into its own, Jerry's Home Store for American kitsch and Tridias (Bute St) to keep the kids occupied!

When you leave the tube, you can take a pedestrian tunnel that leads straight from the platform to the entrance of Harrods. Use the other exit for Sloane Street and Harvey Nichols.