A luxury shopping guide to Burlington Arcade

Built in 1819, this elegant passageway has long been a destination for those seeking something special. From boutique jewellers crafting exquisite pieces to high-end fashion houses showcasing the finest designs. With its gleaming shopfronts and historic charm, Burlington Arcade remains a haven full of hidden gems. But where to start? Read on for our guide to navigating one of London's most enchanting shopping experiences.

On arrival at Burlington Arcade, as you take in the impressive entrance with its magnificent stone archway, you'll notice a uniformed figure in a top hat standing to the side, welcoming visitors across the threshold. This is a Beadle, and here's a fun fact: they belong to the smallest private police force in the world, the Burlington Arcade Beadle patrol. But it's not as serious as it sounds. The Beadles are simply on hand to offer information and point you in the right direction, wherever you want to go. If time allows, you may even wish to book a Beadle tour and make the most of their extensive knowledge of the arcade and its history.

Now, turn your attention to the arcade stretching before you, where colourful boutique shopfronts line the passage, each store displaying goods entirely different from its neighbour. If you're looking for a gorgeously scented perfume to captivate the senses, you must pay a visit to Roja Parfums, where renowned British perfumer Roja Dove uses rare and coveted ingredients including Jasmine de Grasse, Rose de Mai and natural ambergris to create bespoke, luxurious fragrances.

For the seasoned travellers among you, pop by Globe-Trotter, established in 1897, to browse their elegant range of handcrafted leather travel accessories and luggage. What sets them apart from other luxury luggage brands? The highly skilled artisans use original Victorian era machinery and traditional manufacturing methods. Clients have included Daniel Craig, Kate Moss, Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth II herself.

As you stroll past the shops, you'll notice the many jewellers that call Burlington Arcade home. A particular favourite of ours is Amrapali Jewels, a globally celebrated luxury jewellery house established by two friends inspired by the rich culture and heritage of India, as well as their deep admiration of the country's artefacts and tribal jewellery. Each piece captures the beauty of traditional Indian design, often infused with a contemporary Western twist, making the jewellery something truly special. Amrapali Jewels recently launched a bespoke revolving Gem Bar in the heart of the boutique, showcasing a vibrant mix of loose jewels including rubies, sapphires and topaz, which shoppers can select for their own bespoke designs.

For beauty lovers, Code8 should be next on your list, particularly if you're in the market for a new lipstick. The luxury cosmetics brand allows shoppers to create their very own lipstick shade, tailored to skin tone and personal preference, using high-tech, long-lasting formulas. Each product is beautifully presented in eco-friendly packaging and available to refill on request. What's not to love?

Now, we don't know about you, but all this shopping has us feeling like we need a little pick me up. If you're in need of a pause before the retail therapy resumes, no problem. Burlington Arcade is home to several delightful eateries, but Ladurée, with its treasure trove of macarons, is our personal favourite. A quick rest here with a coffee and a sweet treat to nibble on might be just the ticket to put a spring back in your step.

And after the bustle of Burlington Arcade with shopping to tasting fine delicacies, settle back down at The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences and enjoy your luxurious overnight stay in Mayfair.