One of the most popular - and perhaps the most famous - markets in London is the one held every weekend in Camden Town. Camden Market began in its present form in 1974 when the Camden Lock crafts market was formed, after the canal trade had ceased. Originally planned to be a temporary market, it began to flourish to such as degree that it was decided to keep it permanent. Camden Market is now the fourth most popular tourist attraction in London, with 100,000 people visiting the market every weekend.

Split into six sections, Camden Market has a range of goods for sale, from homemade crafts and second-hand clothes to books and a large amount of catering stalls. In more recent times, the goods on sale at the Market have focused on clothing and art pieces appealing to sub-cultures, such as punks and goths.

Another outdoor market that has consistently proved to be a winner with visitors during the spring and summer months is Brick Lane Market. Compared to Camden Market, Brick Lane offers a more traditional flea-market atmosphere, with a rich diversity of goods for sale, including retro second-hand clothing, furniture and bric-a-brac. More recently, Brick Lane Market has become known as a great place to pick up household accessories, from kitchen appliances to DVDs and CDs.

Of course, great spring and summertime shopping in London doesn't have to be enjoyed outdoors, with many famous worldwide stores calling central London home - the most famous of which is Harrods department store, which is located in London's exclusive and picturesque Knightsbridge area. Occupying a 4.5 acre site and offering over 330 different departments, visitors can splash out on designer fashions or to simply have a bite to eat in the store's impressive Food Hall, with a range of international treats on offer.

Trailing round the stylish shopping establishments of London may not sound like a great idea if you have kids in tow but never fear, as there's something for the little ones too. Hamleys is one of the largest and most famous toy shops in the world, occupying six huge floors packed full of toys and games, which is more than enough to keep any wild-eyed child amused for hours. Offering the very latest in gaming as well as special collector's items and traditional toys, you may even pick up an item or two for yourself, helping bring back some great childhood memories.

Shopping in London is truly an experience that can't be rivalled, particularly in the spring and summer months, when the sunlight bouncing off the beautiful, classic architecture provides you with a stunning backdrop for your visits to traditional outdoor markets and luxurious shopping establishments. With so many London hotels nestled among the main shopping thoroughfares of the capital, you'll never be too far away from a truly unique shopping experience.

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