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What to buy in London?
October 13, 2025
Kit Neoh
Quick Answer
Go for classic London-themed memorabilia: red phone booth keychains, Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) magnets, and teddy bears in the King’s Guards uniform. You’ll find them at gift shops like the Buckingham Palace Shop and Harrods. For upscale food and branded gifts, check Fortnum & Mason.
Key Facts
London-themed souvenirs include red phone booth miniatures, Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) magnets, and King’s Guards teddy bears
Gift shops such as the Buckingham Palace Shop and Harrods stock classic London souvenirs
Fortnum & Mason leans toward luxury food and branded gifts, not typical tourist trinkets like magnets or keychains
Big Ben is the bell; the structure is officially Elizabeth Tower; use Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) for clarity
These items are light and packable, great for gifting and travel
Step-by-Step
Decide on classic London-themed items like red phone booths, Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) magnets, or King’s Guards teddy bears
Browse gift shops such as the Buckingham Palace Shop and Harrods for a wide range of these trinkets
If you prefer upscale gifts, head to Fortnum & Mason for luxury food and branded items (not typical magnets/keychains)
When labeling or describing your souvenirs, use Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) for accuracy
Comparison
Option | Best For | Key Benefit | Caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
Gift shops (e.g., Buckingham Palace Shop, Harrods) | Classic, instantly recognizable London trinkets | Wide selection of phone booths, Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) magnets, guard teddy bears | Touristy; quality and uniqueness vary by item |
Fortnum & Mason | Luxury food and branded gifts | Premium feel for special gifting | Not focused on tourist trinkets like magnets/keychains |
FAQs
What souvenirs should I buy in London?
Classic picks include red phone booth miniatures, Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) magnets, and teddy bears in the King’s Guards uniform.
Where can I buy London-themed souvenirs?
Check gift shops like the Buckingham Palace Shop and Harrods for a wide range of classic items.
Does Fortnum & Mason sell magnets and keychains?
It focuses on luxury food and branded gifts rather than tourist trinkets like magnets or keychains.
Is Big Ben the tower or the bell?
Big Ben is the Great Bell. The tower is officially Elizabeth Tower, write it as Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben).
How can I reduce foreign transaction costs in the UK?
A Wise card can help reduce costs, but availability and fees vary, confirm the latest details for Malaysia before you go.
Are these souvenirs easy to pack?
Yes. Keychains, magnets, and small statues are light, compact, and travel-friendly.
Are these souvenirs available across London?
They’re widely available in major gift shops, though designs and stock can vary.
References
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