Overview
Fortnum & Mason is a historic department store and tea merchant in London, known for its luxury goods and traditional British fare. It's a must-visit for those interested in British history and culture.
It's one of the oldest and most prestigious department stores in the world, with a rich history dating back to 1707.
Location
Address
181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, Greater London
Neighborhood: St. James's
Coordinates
51.508500, -0.144200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • Easter displays
- • spring fashion
summer
hot
- • summer fashion collections
- • outdoor seating
autumn
cool
- • autumn fashion collections
- • holiday previews
winter
cold
- • holiday displays
- • festive food hall
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for afternoon tea
- Bring ID for age-restricted purchases
- Check website for seasonal offers
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • can be crowded during peak hours
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards, contactless payments
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing for fine dining areas
Booking Tips
- • 2 weeks for afternoon tea
- • official website
- • 48 hours for special events
- • available for afternoon tea
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Fortnum & Mason App
Size: 30 MB
Features: Menu and offers, Gift guide, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Throughout the store, Dining areas
Charging Stations: Dining areas, Rest rooms
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Heathrow Airport
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, unique British experience
Historical Significance: Founded in 1707, supplied provisions to the British Army, Royal Warrant holders
Insider Tips
- Best times to visit are weekdays
- Try the Hampstead tea blend
Local Recommendations
- • Try the traditional afternoon tea
- • Ask staff for recommendations on specialty foods
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the iconic clock
Result: Great shot of the historic entrance
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Buckingham Palace
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Palace
Green Park
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Park
The Royal Academy of Arts
Distance: 400m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book afternoon tea in advance"
- "Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds"
- "Try the exclusive Fortnum's teas"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (4)
London Cheese Crawl & Walking Tour
Taste London: Cheese Tasting & Walking Tour
Best of London in Half a Day Walking Tour
London’s Sweet Treats And Desserts Tour with a Local Tailored to Your Tastes
Quick Info
Available Tours
36
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
Free entry (minimum spend may apply for fine dining)