I'd like to stretch my tiny US dollar.... (consignment, shops)

[Ynot]

So are there any thrift shops in London, or close proximity by public trans? If so, where and best way to get there?

I will be visiting and doing some shopping, as much as my little skinny wallet will allow, so thrift shops, 2nd hand, consignment shops all work for me!

Also, aside from thrift shops, etc., what are the popular items tourists (like me) shop for, especially items specific to the region? This is my first trip to London and my inquiring mind would like to know! Thanks for any help!!

[mr&mrssunshine]

they tend to be called charity shops over here and each supports one individual charity. some towns have shops supporting locals hospitals of hospices. Oxfam, cancer research, mind are some.

you could also try street markets -these are roads just packed with vendor stalls and can be real fun with lots of chararacters selling. google famous london markets and look on wikipedia, Petticoat lane and portobello road are 2 famous ones.

as for souvenirs, sadly i find a lot of the stuff sold in london to be tasteless tack (remember the friends episode when Joey buys a union jack top hat from Richard Branson) -its generall poor quality made in China and platered with the Union Jack. best thing is take lots of photos that way your memories are personla

and one last thing -if you are a lady be careful with your bag and purse - pickpockets love tourists.

and be prepared for it to be expensive - you will choke when asked to pay 7-8 bucks for a Big mac meal -with no free refils !!!!!