Oxford Street is known the world over for its incredible selection of stores, where you can buy anything from the latest women’s and men’s fashion to revolutionary tech and tasty bites. But did you know there are some hidden gems you might have missed on your last shopping trip? Here’s a handy list for your next visit.
Jamie Oliver Cookery school
Looking for cooking classes in London? Who better to learn from than the most famous UK chefs? Newly opened on Oxford Street and a real hidden gem, the Jamie Oliver Cookery School offers a plethora of cooking courses to choose from, all set in the beautifully vibrant kitchens. Pasta, Thai food, plant-based cuisine, knife skills, quick & easy dishes and sushi are just some of the courses to choose from. And if you’re looking to entertain the kids this summer, you’ll be pleased to hear that kids can learn to cook for free at the school (accompanied by a paying adult). It’s a win win. Head to the third floor of John Lewis to discover this hidden gem on Oxford Street, but shhhh, we want it to remain a secret!

Rawr Beauty at Primark
There are many makeup stores in London, but not many offer beauty treatments at a reasonable price. Enter Rawr Beauty, set within Primark Oxford Street, which conveniently allows you to take a break from grabbing all those bargains to catch up on beauty admin. Whether it’s threading, waxing, a gel polish manicure, a brow lamination or a facial you’re after, Rawr Beauty has got you covered, with prices starting at just £5.
Lush spa
You don’t have to check into a top London hotel and spa to experience a luxurious beauty treatment (although if you do want to, there are some great hotels on Oxford Street that fit the bill). Lush may be one of the best beauty stores in London, but nestled within it, you’ll find one of the best spas too. Spa treatments start from as little as £50 for a 25-minute hair and facial massage, though if you have the time, you can indulge in a 75-minute hot oil body massage and bath (yes, a bath!). Other treatments include bespoke facials and reflexology-inspired foot treatments. The perfect way to relax, and on the way out, you can purchase the skincare and body products used during your massage too.

W1Curates at Flannels
Flannels is a great destination in itself for designer fashion at great prices, but step outside the store and you’ll find yourself immersed in hidden gem of a digital art landscape. W1Curates is a public art platform that covers the exterior of Flannels to bring you the latest work of international artists from across the globe, all showcased on giant 8K LED screens for free. Perfect for kids and families during the summer holidays, this is a free and (one of the best) hidden gems on Oxford Street.
Oxford Street museums
There are, of course, the big London museums you’ve all heard of. But if you’re looking for something different and equally eye-opening, then there are a few museums on Oxford Street that you can visit, starting with Twist Museum. Mind-bending doesn’t even cover the 60 immersive experiences where art, science and sensory play collide – it’s a great day out for the whole family, and if you book online, you get 15% off. If it’s immersive digital art you’re after, try FRAMELESS. Reimagining classic artwork from the likes of Van Gogh and Monet. Wonder in amazement at this hidden gem as artworks from centuries ago come to life in front of you alongside a tailored soundtrack. Kids will love it this summer holiday – well worth a visit!

The cinema at Selfridges
Did you know you could catch the latest blockbusters in the same store where you can also shop fashion, homeware, beauty and tech? That’s right, Selfridges is also home to its very own cinema. Jurassic World: Rebirth, Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning and Superman are just some of the many films you can view there this summer. We also love their Babes in Arms sessions, a once-weekly showing for parents and children under 2, with adjusted noise and lighting levels. And, if you’re feeling decadent, you can even hire out one of the rooms for private events.
