Harrods
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
Harrods in London is one of the most famous and luxurious department stores in the world, and an iconic landmark that goes far beyond a mere shopping destination. Located in the affluent Knightsbridge neighborhood, it is a symbol of British style, extravagance, and top-notch service. Founded in 1834 by Charles Henry Harrod as a small grocery store, Harrods has evolved over the decades into a huge complex with over 90,000 square meters of retail space spread across seven floors and more than 330 departments. Today, it is a must-visit for tourists who want to experience not only shopping, but also the opulent architecture and history of this legendary establishment.
The history of Harrods began modestly with a shop selling tea and groceries. Under the leadership of Charles Digby Harrod, the founder's son, the business expanded significantly in the 1860s as it specialized in luxury goods and attracted a wealthy clientele. A pivotal moment was the rebuilding after a devastating fire on December 6, 1883, which destroyed the original building. The new Harrods, constructed between 1894 and 1905 under the direction of architect Charles William Stephens, featured a magnificent Edwardian facade made of terracotta adorned with over 300 elaborate details and domes. This architecture, combined with the 11,000 light bulbs that illuminate the facade at night, makes Harrods an impressive sight from the outside as well.
Inside, Harrods is a palace of luxury. The retail spaces are adorned with intricate designs including marble floors, gilded ceilings, and elaborate chandeliers. The "Food Hall" on the ground floor is particularly famous, a series of splendid halls opened in 1902 and decorated with Art Nouveau mosaics and tiles by William James Neatby. Here, delicacies from around the world are offered – from handmade pralines to fresh seafood to exotic spices – in an atmosphere more reminiscent of a museum than a store. The Egyptian Hall, another attraction, is designed with Egyptian-inspired motifs and statues and now houses the escalators – a masterpiece from the time when Harrods introduced Britain's first escalator in 1898, complete with brandy for nervous customers at the top.
Harrods is also known for its historical innovations. In addition to the first escalator, it introduced the world's first department store Father Christmas in 1885, a tradition that continues to this day. During World War I, beds for the wounded were provided in the basement, and during World War II it served as a storage facility for emergency supplies. A curious anecdote is the sale of exotic animals until the 1970s, including lion cubs and even an elephant that Noël Coward bought as a pet in 1918 – a practice that would be unthinkable today.
Ownership of Harrods has changed over time. From 1985 to 2010, it was owned by Mohamed Al-Fayed, an Egyptian businessman who imbued the department store with personal flair, such as the construction of the Diana and Dodi Memorial Fountain in the basement. This fountain, unveiled in 1998, commemorates the deaths of Princess Diana and Al-Fayed's son Dodi, who were killed in a car accident in 1997, and features a gilded albatross as well as personal items like Diana's ring. Since 2010, Harrods has been owned by the Qatar Investment Authority, which has reinforced the focus on luxury and modernization.
For visitors, Harrods is an experience that goes beyond shopping. The departments offer everything one can imagine – from designer clothing from top brands like Chanel and Gucci to jewelry and watches to bespoke furniture and high-tech gadgets. The "Toy Kingdom" is a paradise for children, while the Beauty Department entices with exclusive treatments. Afternoon tea at the Harrods Tea Room, served with scones, clotted cream, and a selection of teas, is a popular ritual that combines British tradition with luxury. Even those who don't make a purchase can enjoy the atmosphere, such as the festive Christmas decorations or the live music often played by a pianist in the Grand Foyer.
Harrods is located in a neighborhood known for prosperity and elegance, surrounded by boutiques and close to attractions like Hyde Park. It attracts over 15 million visitors annually, from tourists marveling at the splendor to wealthy clientele taking advantage of the renowned service – Harrods promises to "all things for all people everywhere," a motto it has followed for over a century. The dress code, once strict, has been relaxed, but the aura of exclusivity remains.
Harrods is more than a department store – it is a piece of living history, a showcase of luxury, and a testament to British department store culture. It blends Victorian grandeur with modern sophistication and remains a place where one can feel the essence of London: a city that combines tradition and progress in one breath. For anyone visiting Knightsbridge, Harrods is an essential experience that leaves an impression, whether you leave with a shopping bag or just memories.
