The most elegant of arcades

Word to the wise: The Strand webpage has regular competitions, discounts and deals which are worth investigating before you visit.

Noteworthy for: Busted your favourite heels? The guys at Coombs on the ground floor are considered the best footwear doctors in the city.

This stately arcade makes for a refined afternoon's browsing, with designer boutiques on levels 1-2 including Alannah Hill, Dinosaur Designs, Alex Perry and Akira. Pop into Haigh's Chocolates on the ground floor for a post-purchase treat.

The wrought ironwork, marble pillars and restored conservatory ceiling all add to the Victorian ambiance here, which seems to prompt customers to suddenly employ their best manners upon entering.