15 Unique Things To Do In London (That You Won't Find On Trip Advisor)

By Lottie Oram /

13. Pick Up A Stylish Umbrella

Jorge Royan via Wikipedia Commons

Let's face it: you're probably going to need an umbrella when you visit London, so why not make an occasion of it and head for James Smith & Sons on New Oxford Street to collect some top quality wet weather gear? These purveyors of finest umbrellas have been around since 1830 and have sold brollies to leading British luminaries over the years, including a UK prime minister or two.

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The shop itself is a sight to behold, worthy of the props department on Mary Poppins, with many of the original Victorian fittings and an amazing selection of walking sticks and animal head umbrellas on display, as well as the more modern, lightweight kind that will fit in your handbag. It's certainly worth a browse, even if you do end up buying a cheap-o one from a street vendor in Leicester Square.