History of Oxford Street in pictures
A gallery of images from the history of London's busiest shopping streets
Its hard to imagine that Oxford Street was once lined with independent traders selling their wares from small shops, while the main mode of transport wasn't the bus but horse and cart. Today, it is the capital's most famous shopping area, attracting millions of people each year to browse its department and flagship stores. Time Out takes a look back at images and facts about its history. Words by Abigail Lelliott
Selfridges
Selfridges, 1931
Founded by American busniessman Henry Gordon Selfridge, Oxford Street's most famous department store opened in 1909 and is the second largest store in London after Harrods. During the decandent 20's and 30's the store's roof hosted a terraced garden, cafes and an all girl gun club. Always a front-runner in new trends, the first public demonstration of a television was performed here by John Logie Baird in 1925. It was bombed 3 times during WWII causing extensive damage to the roof garden. The large display windows were bricked up as a safety precaution.
More shopping features
-
Oxford Street shops
Discover Oxford Street’s best shops, along with a few insider tips like where to go to the loo, where to refuel after shopping and opening times.
View shops -
Department stores
Step out with future-focused Selfridges, get lost in the wonder world of Harrods and gasp at the glittering new John Lewis at Westfield Stratford City.
View department stores -
High street shops
From tremendous for teens Topshop Oxford Circus to classy Covent Garden, here are London’s most innovative high street shops.
View high street shops
