London’s Oxford Street is one of its best-known landmarks; vibrant with flagship stores, heritage streets, cultural landmarks, and hidden treasures on side streets. Whether you’re a sightseer on a spending spree or a dweller on a leisurely afternoon, there’s an incredible array of things to see around Oxford Street, London. From high fashion and fine art, bookstores and cafes, you can easily fill an entire day (or three) without having to stray far from Oxford Street’s heart. And speaking of food, there’s one must: Kula Cafe, your go-to destination for rich coffee, dessert, and brunch all day.
Here’s your go-to, true local guide on how to discover Marylebone attractions and must-visit Oxford Street hidden gems around you.
1. Shop Flagship Fashion at Bond Street and Oxford Circus
Oxford Circus is located at the intersection of Oxford Street and Regent Street, with legendary worldwide high-street brands as its address-holders.
- Primark: The flagship fashion brand for budget-friendly shopping in London with a wide variety, all under one roof.
- Marks and Spencer: Known for its high-quality clothing, food, and home essentials with timeless fashion and gourmet treats.

- H&M, Urban Outfitters, and Zara: These major retail brands offer trend-conscious options within every style and budget.
If you have an eye for architecture, take a step back and take a look at these Oxford Street attractions, as many of these stores stretch back as early as the early 20th century and merge Edwardian elegance with efficient modernity.
2. Indulge in Luxury at Selfridges
Located on Oxford Street, Selfridges is not just an ordinary department store; it is an all-encompassing fashion and lifestyle hub. Selfridges provides a life-changing shopping experience with its designer clothing, beauty and fashion stores, conceptual shops, and even its unparalleled gourmet grocery store.

You may check out the seasonal pop-ups at the rooftop or visit the sneaker gallery. Selfridges is not only a go-to domestic shopping destination, but a must visit for timeless fashion investments and even just casual window shopping.
3. Recharge at Kula Cafe; The Best Brunch Cafe Near Oxford Street
As soon as you feel a bit hungry, there is no better stop than at Kula Cafe, one of the best hidden cafes near Oxford Street. Right off of James Street and within minutes of Bond Street Station, this family-run cafe offers all-day brunch, halal menu options, delicious coffee, and rich desserts.
Why Kula Cafe Stands Out:
- Signature Brunch Options: Choose from classic menu items, the full English breakfast, Nutella French Toast, or high-quality smashed avocado with poached eggs, or from the Halal Brunch menu.
- Signature Desserts: Waffles and pancakes with ice cream and seasonal toppings that not just taste good but look visually stunning.
- Coffee Connoisseur: If you’re a flat-white purist or a lover of a bright matcha latte, their coffee menu has you covered.
- Atmosphere: Bright, airy rooms with cozy seating and friendly baristas put this cafe on the locals’ favorite list and a savvy tourist’s itinerary.

4. Visit The Photographers’ Gallery
The Photographers’ Gallery is often suggested when searching for free activities to do in central London and cultural sights near Oxford Street in the UK. For any culture seekers, a short walk to The Photographers’ Gallery is an absolute must-visit.
- Exhibits by both emerging and well-known, iconic photographers.
- Features include a professionally managed bookstore, gift shop, and a cafe located on their top floor.
- Regular lectures and workshops make it a center of learning as well
Check their calendar for limited-time exhibitions or public lectures, which will enrich your experience.
5. Catch a Show at the London Palladium
Right on Oxford Street stands the historic and lovely London Palladium. Large West End productions, concerts, and comedy all add a theatrical element to the neighborhood’s schedule of events.

- Check what’s on at the box office, ranging from classic musicals to one-off specials.
- Its Baroque Revival facade is an architectural gem; a daytime promenade is recommended even if you’re not attending a performance.
6. Uncover Streetwear Culture on Carnaby Street
Hidden away just a few streets south of Oxford Street is legendary Carnaby Street. Famed worldwide as a center of 1960s Swinging London, it’s a centre of contemporary fashion and city culture.

- Local boutiques and concept store brands like size?, Lazy Oaf, and OG Kicks add a fresh, new alternative to high street chain shops.
- Local boutiques and concept stores offer a new and refreshing alternative to high-street chain shops.
- Ongoing art installations, live performance, and fashion pop-ups add pizzazz and vitality on every visit.
7. Browse Rare Books at Foyles Bookshop
If you’re looking for a bookstore around Soho, Foyles Bookshop on Charing Cross Road (only a few minutes’ walk) is a book lover’s temple.

- Five grades of Literature, Art, Politics, Comics, and Rarities.
- The serene top-floor cafe of the building with a beautiful second coffee break if you’re not quite ready to head home yet.
This bookstore is one of the many places near Oxford Street London, which is a great alternative to busy chains and a great way to top off a thought-provoking afternoon.
8. Take Instagram-Worthy Photograph
Choose Oxford Street and side lanes as fertile material on your feed:

- Liberty London: A Tudor-revival treasure, especially lovely at Christmas.
- Regent Street: Its dramatic curves and festive installations are landmarks of London.
- St. Christopher’s Place and Kingly Court: These alleys hide murals, courtyards, lights, and boutique stores.
9. Picnic at Regent’s Park
Seeking a break from city life and searching for quiet areas around Oxford Street? One of London’s most famous parks, which happens to be only 10 minutes away from Oxford Street, is the iconic Royal Park, Hyde Park.

- Pass by the boating lake, rose gardens, or along Primrose Hill for breathtaking views of the skyline.
- Go on a stroll through the enchanting rose gardens and even rent a rowboat on the famous Serpentine.
- Ideal for a mid-afternoon break to round off your day with a peaceful sunset stroll.
10. Discover Seasonal Events & Pop-Ups
From themed parties to season-of-a-kind, infamous events and pop-ups, Oxford Street is known to be the life of the party all year round. Some of their notable events are:
- Christmas Lights: Perhaps the city’s best-known seasonal display for Christmas around Oxford Circus.
- Summer Street Parties: Carnaby and its surroundings host themed functions.
- Street Food Markets: Festival or school holiday periods will have pop-up stalls in the lanes.
10. Plan a Perfect Day
Time | Activity |
9:00 a.m | Start at Oxford Circus for key fashion stores |
11:00 am | Luxury stop at Selfridges or Bond Street shops |
12:30 pm | Brunch break at Kula Cafe |
2:00 pm | Art stop: The Photographers’ Gallery |
3:30 pm | Book browsing at Foyles |
5:00 p.m. | Instagram walk: Regent Street + Liberty London |
6:00 p.m | Dinner or dessert at Kula (again!) or another stop |
7:30 p.m | Evening performance at the London Palladium or Hyde Park |
Final Thoughts
It is a multi-dimensional experience with something for everyone: fashion buffs, foodies, artsy lovers, and weekend wanderers. And with a culinary hotspot like Kula Cafe, you can taste a whole universe of culture, commerce, and beauty within walking distance. Next time you have a question about what the greatest things to do near Oxford Street, London, share this guide and perhaps grab them at Kula Cafe for a waffle on the go.