Vintage and later wares from Harrods, London

Harrods is a department store located in Knightsbridge, London, England. It is one of the most famous and luxurious department stores in the world, and it is known for its wide range of products, its high level of customer service, and its iconic exterior.

The history of Harrods dates back to 1824, when Charles Henry Harrod opened a grocery store in the Borough of Southwark, London. The store was a success, and Harrod eventually expanded it to sell a wider range of goods. In 1849, Harrod moved the store to its current location in Knightsbridge.

Harrods continued to grow and expand throughout the 19th century. In 1861, Harrod's son, Charles Digby Harrod, took over the business and oversaw its transformation into a department store. Under his leadership, Harrods introduced new departments, such as a food hall, a furniture department, and a toy department. Harrods also began to offer a more... wider range of services, such as a travel agency and a bank. In 1883, a fire destroyed much of the Harrods building. However, the store was rebuilt within a year, and it emerged even grander than before. The new Harrods building was designed by architect Charles William Stephens, and it featured a distinctive red brick exterior with white stone detailing.

Harrods continued to grow and prosper in the 20th century. In 1919, the store opened a new wing that was designed by architect John Belcher. The new wing featured a grand staircase and a large dome, and it quickly became one of the most popular attractions at Harrods. In 1985, Harrods was purchased by Egyptian businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed. Al-Fayed invested heavily in the store, and he oversaw a number of renovations and expansions. Al-Fayed also introduced a number of new initiatives, such as a Harrods magazine and a Harrods hotel. In 2010, Harrods was sold to Qatar Holding, a sovereign wealth fund from Qatar. The Qatari owners have pledged to continue investing in Harrods and to maintain its reputation as one of the world's leading department stores.

Harrods is a major tourist destination in London, visited by millions of people each year, and it is a popular spot for celebrities and other high-profile individuals. Harrods is also a popular choice for shoppers looking for luxury goods, and it is home to a wide range of brands, including Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. less...