Gifts To Remind You Of London: Souvenirs That Aren't Tacky
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A good London gift brings back a feeling rather than a fridge magnet: the Tower on a grey morning, the red buses, a bear from Peru on a station platform.
These ideas suit someone who has just moved away, a friend who visits every year, children who came home talking about the guards, or anyone who simply loves the city. Some links go to other shops and we may earn a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
The Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London are among the city's best-loved characters, and this Hamleys bear dresses the part in their famous uniform. Hamleys itself is a London institution, so it's a souvenir with two bits of the city in one.
It's a soft, cuddly gift for children who came home talking about the Tower, and just as lovely on a shelf for a grown-up who misses London.
If someone has just moved away from London, this keyring is a sweet way to send a bit of the city with them. Every time they pick up their new keys, there's a tiny Beefeater along for the ride.
It's small enough to post with a card, which makes it a thoughtful leaving or housewarming present.
Few bears are as tied to London as Paddington, found on a station platform with his suitcase and a label round his neck. This large soft toy comes complete with his boots and suitcase.
It suits children who love the books and films, and adults who grew up with him. Pair it with a copy of the first book for a gift that feels complete.
Children who stood at the palace gates watching the guards will love having their own. This Playmobil Royal Guard, in red tunic and bearskin hat, is perfect for acting out the Changing of the Guard at home.
It's an affordable, sturdy souvenir that will be played with long after the trip.
LEGO Architecture London brings several of the city's landmarks together on a single skyline. It's a relaxing build and a smart display piece afterwards.
A great choice for a partner, parent or friend who loves the city and enjoys a quiet project.
For anyone far from home, a proper cup of tea is the quickest route back. These London-themed caddies make the tea feel like a gift, and the tins are worth keeping once they're empty.
A lovely present for friends overseas, or for someone settling into a new place.
Sometimes the best souvenirs are the ones you actually use. These charm pens have a Union Jack barrel and little London charms, making them a cheerful stocking filler or desk treat.
A reusable bag printed with Big Ben and a red phone box brings a bit of London to the weekly shop. A useful, inexpensive extra to tuck in with a bigger gift.
How to write it so it lands
Match the gift to their London: a tourist trip, a childhood, or ten years of commuting are very different cities.
Pair a small London toy or keyring with a card - it posts easily and still feels thoughtful.
Something tied to a London icon they loved: a Beefeater bear, a Royal Guard figure, Paddington Bear, a red bus model or LEGO Architecture London.
What is a good London gift for children?
A Playmobil Royal Guard, a Paddington soft toy or a Hamleys Beefeater bear are all hits, especially after a trip to see the Changing of the Guard.
What do you give someone moving away from London?
A keepsake they'll use, like a Beefeater keyring for their new keys or London tea caddies, plus a card.
Can I copy these messages word for word?
Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.
