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Photograph: Jess Hand

The most bewitching places to go in London

Leave the fake broomstick at home. We're getting real about the city's witchy scene

Written by
Ellie Muir
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Though its streets might be grey and polluted, London is actually a very magical place. Whether it's the slew of mystic shops in Soho or the immersive witchcraft walking tours, Londoners are obsessed with the city’s witchy legacy. 

In hidden corners of this city, 21st century witches are working their magic, and it's more likely to involve crystals and shrines than the black cat and broomstick cliches. There are tonnes of places to embrace magik in the city to channel your inner witch, plus loads of shops to stock up on potions, spells and occult accessories. Read on to find the best places to get in touch with your witchy side.

Recommended: Find spooky atmosphere galore at London's most haunted pubs.

Magic shops, classes and workshops in London

Treadwell's
Photograph: courtesy of Treadwell's

1. Treadwell's

Ever since its opening in 2013, Treadwell's bookshop has been the hotspot among spiritualists and witchcraft practitioners alike. Its shelves hold a bewitching selection of works on Wicca, esoteric studies and much more. The books are carefully curated, both old, quirky and new works; all of which are chosen with the experienced occultist, the curious academic or the young student in mind. Treadwell's is stop number one on your witchy education.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

Broomsticks, who? No, no, no, witches don't actually use those things. This cosy magical shop in east London sells all the right witchy accessories, including candles, potions and spell rings for both the budding and experienced witch. Owned by witch Semra Haksever, who creates bespoke spells for her customers as well as hosting private ritual sessions, Mama Moon has its own coven for witches to share the cosmic vibes.

Go along for moon rituals, manifesting workshops, and to craft spells to take home with you.

 

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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Since 1982, Mysteries has been London’s self-proclaimed new age hub for all your mind, body and spirit needs. Selling charcoal incense, sage smudge sticks, individual crystals, special rocks and thousands of gemstones for healing, here, you can build your witchy kit from scratch and find the best stuff for your mystic practice.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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Known for selling some of the best crystals in east London, She’s Lost Control is a shopping experience for the awakened generation. The store is the hub for a thriving community of people practicing a sacred yet sustainable lifestyle. So, get yourself down to Broadway Market and find your higher purpose.

 

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

The tiny Viktor Wynd Museum displays everything that has glittered and caught the eye of its founder, from rare priceless marvels of the natural and scientific worlds, from occultist paintings to two-headed kittens. Its events programme is well worth a peek for magical goings on of all kinds, including poppet-making workshops for anyone in need of a protective charm, and palm readings accompanied by chocolate absinthe

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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Since 1673 Chelsea Physic Garden has occupied four acres of land on the edge of the Thames after it was established to grow medicinal plants by the apothecaries. These days, the gardens have a real mystic vibe. As one of London’s oldest botanic gardens and a herbal witches’ paradise, it contains a unique living collection of around 5,000 different edible, unusual and medicinal plants that have changed the world. It might give you inspiration for your next potion or herbal remedy.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

You don't need your bumbag or ridiculous wellies for this kind of festival. Maybe pack your favourite healing crystal, instead? As one of the largest esoteric markets in the UK, Witchfest sells an array of mystic treats for the modern witch. But most of all, the talks and workshops centred around Wiccan, paganism and all things occult are a budding witch's paradise. Head to Croydon and indulge your dark side.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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This bookshop has a reputation for offering one of the world’s largest selections of spiritual and esoteric literature. With titles on Eastern philosophy and Western esoterica, as well as a wide range of materials on mind, body on spirit, the shop also stocks statues, crystals, tarot decks and talismans to assist your practice or spiritual journey.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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