Planning Your Visit to Hatton Garden: What to Expect

Written by Mittal Vasani

October 15, 2024

4 min

Located in the heart of London, Hatton Garden is renowned as the city’s premier destination for fine jewellery, diamonds, and bespoke engagement rings. With a history of over 500 years, it’s no wonder Hatton Garden has cemented itself as a go-to location for those seeking exquisite craftsmanship and a truly unique shopping experience. Whether you’re on the hunt for a special piece of jewellery or simply want to explore the fascinating area, visiting Hatton Garden offers something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know before heading to this iconic jewellery district.

A Jewel in London’s Crown

Hatton Garden has long been synonymous with luxury and expertise in jewellery design. The district boasts an impressive concentration of jewellers, with over 300 jewellery businesses and nearly 60 retail showrooms packed into a small stretch of central London. From diamond engagement rings and wedding bands to antique jewellery and custom-made pieces, you’ll find many offerings to suit every style and budget.

The area’s roots in jewellery-making trace back to the 16th century, when Sir Christopher Hatton, a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I, acquired the land. By the 19th century, Hatton Garden had transformed into a bustling hub for jewellery and diamond merchants. Today, this rich history continues to influence the area, making it not only a hotspot for shoppers but also a living testament to London’s craftsmanship and design legacy.

What to Expect on Your Visit

When visiting, expect a lively and vibrant atmosphere, with streets lined with glittering window displays and specialist jewellers in hatton garden. One of the most appealing aspects of Hatton Garden is the sheer variety of jewellery available. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned jewellery enthusiast, you'll find expert jewellers ready to guide you through choosing or designing the perfect piece. Customisation is key here, with many businesses specialising in bespoke jewellery, allowing you to create something truly personal. Here are some highlights of what you can discover in Hatton Garden:

Independent Jewellers
Expert Guidance and Friendly Service
Extensive Selection
Top Craftsmanship
Competitive Pricing
Bespoke Jewellery Designs
Historic Charm

At Regal showroom, our team of professionals is dedicated to helping you discover the perfect piece of jewellery. With expertise in selecting the finest stones, metals, and designs, our staff provides valuable guidance tailored to your needs. As an independent, family-run business, we pride ourselves on delivering a personalised and intimate shopping experience. Our bespoke service ensures that every customer receives the care and attention they deserve.

The Rise of Lab Grown Diamonds in Hatton Garden

In recent years, Hatton Garden has seen a major shift in what customers want, with lab grown diamonds becoming increasingly popular. Once considered just an alternative, these diamonds are now a top choice for many buyers because they are ethically sourced, environmentally friendly, and more affordable. Lab diamonds are made using advanced technology, making them chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds. As more consumers become aware of the ethical issues surrounding traditional diamond mining, jewellers in Hatton Garden are expanding their collections to include a variety of lab-grown options. Overall, the rise of lab diamonds in Hatton Garden highlights a trend towards responsible shopping, establishing lab diamonds as a key part of the future of fine jewellery.

When to Visit Hatton Garden

Hatton Garden is open to visitors throughout the week, but most jewellers are closed on Sundays. Saturdays are the busiest times, especially during wedding season, so if you prefer a quieter shopping experience, it’s best to visit in the morning or early afternoon during the weekdays. Usual opening times vary from store to store. Regal is open Monday to Saturday 10:00am to 6:00pm.

Do I Need an Appointment?

As a renowned hub for exquisite jewellery shopping, Hatton Garden often experiences high demand, particularly on bustling weekends and during peak evening hours. To ensure a comprehensive and unhurried consultation, booking an appointment in advance is highly recommended.

At Regal, we warmly welcome walk-ins; however, we recommend booking an appointment at least a week in advance to ensure a seamless experience. Saturdays are particularly busy and often fill up quickly, especially during the festive season, when reservations may be needed in advance. Evening appointments are also in high demand, so planning ahead is essential to secure your preferred time.

Exploring Beyond the Jewellery

While Hatton Garden is primarily known for its jewellery, the district itself has plenty to offer beyond dazzling gems. The area’s charm lies in its history and architecture, with several nearby attractions that make it worth a visit, even if you’re not in the market for jewellery.

The Hatton Garden Safe Deposit Heist:

In 2015, Hatton Garden was the site of one of the most notorious jewellery heists in British history. The story of how a group of elderly thieves pulled off the audacious multi-million pound raid has become part of the area’s lore. You can even see the location of the former vault on Hatton Garden Street, which has now become a tourist curiosity.

Leather Lane Market: Just around the corner from Hatton Garden, Leather Lane offers a bustling street market where you can grab a bite to eat from one of the many food stalls serving international cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to take a break during your shopping trip.

Historical Architecture: Take a walk around the area to admire the beautiful Victorian and Georgian buildings. The combination of heritage architecture and modern boutiques creates a unique atmosphere that blends the old with the new.

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