Introduction to New Bond Street
Thursday 20 November 2025 11:44 am
Christmas lights on New Bond Street, in central London.
London’s New Bond Street has been crowned the world’s most expensive retail destination for the first time as investor confidence returns to high-end retail.
Rents on New Bond Street have risen 22 per cent in the past year, helping it to leapfrog over Milan’s Via Montenapoleone and New York’s iconic Upper Fifth Avenue.
Duncan Gillard, head of central London Retail at Cushman & Wakefield, said New Bond Street’s rise has been driven by “strong demand, limited supply, and continued investment in the public realm”.
“The prime jewellery section between Clifford Street and Burlington Gardens in particular has become one of the most fiercely contested locations in global retail,” he added.
A CBRE investment report found that investment confidence is returning to London – and to retail – as interest rates fall and red tape starts to lift.
London ‘gets its swagger back’
“It does feel like London’s back,” Richard Smart, managing director of London markets at CBRE, told City AM earlier this week. “It feels like it has got its swagger back.”
“We’ve definitely seen investor appetite coming back this year… principally been driven by interest coming back into what used to be to the more dominant sector, retail and offices,” he added.
Europe as a whole has been the standout global performer this year, according to Cushman & Wakefield, with rents on Budapest’s Fashion Street rising 33 per cent and Milan and Paris maintaining their global status.
Three of the world’s top 10 most expensive streets were in Europe this year, with New Bond Street top, Paris’ Champs Élysées in fifth and Zurich’s Pitt Street Mall in seventh.
“The enduring appeal of the world’s premier main streets lies in their unique blend of heritage, visibility and cultural cachet,” Robert Travers, head of EMEA Retail at Cushman & Wakefield, said.
“These iconic corridors are more than just retail destinations; they are global stages for brand storytelling, architectural expression and consumer engagement,” Travers said.
What Makes New Bond Street Special?
New Bond Street is a world-renowned destination for luxury shopping and entertainment. Its unique blend of high-end retailers, restaurants, and cultural attractions makes it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
The street is home to some of the world’s most iconic brands, including luxury jewellers, fashion designers, and art galleries. Its proximity to other popular destinations, such as Oxford Street and Regent Street, makes it an ideal location for shoppers and visitors.
Impact of Investment Confidence
The return of investment confidence to London and the retail sector is expected to have a positive impact on the city’s economy. As interest rates fall and red tape is lifted, investors are more likely to invest in the city, creating new jobs and stimulating economic growth.
The growth of the retail sector is also expected to have a positive impact on the city’s tourism industry, as visitors are drawn to the city’s world-class shopping and entertainment destinations.
Global Performance
Europe has been the standout global performer this year, with rents on Budapest’s Fashion Street rising 33 per cent and Milan and Paris maintaining their global status.
The top 10 most expensive streets in the world are dominated by European destinations, with New Bond Street, Champs Élysées, and Pitt Street Mall all featuring in the top 10.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New Bond Street has been crowned the world’s most expensive retail destination, driven by strong demand, limited supply, and continued investment in the public realm. The return of investment confidence to London and the retail sector is expected to have a positive impact on the city’s economy, creating new jobs and stimulating economic growth.
The unique blend of heritage, visibility, and cultural cachet of New Bond Street makes it a global stage for brand storytelling, architectural expression, and consumer engagement. As the city continues to evolve and grow, it is likely that New Bond Street will remain a premier destination for luxury shopping and entertainment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is New Bond Street?
A: New Bond Street is a world-renowned destination for luxury shopping and entertainment in central London.
Q: Why has New Bond Street been crowned the world’s most expensive retail destination?
A: New Bond Street has been crowned the world’s most expensive retail destination due to strong demand, limited supply, and continued investment in the public realm.
Q: What is the impact of investment confidence on the retail sector?
A: The return of investment confidence to London and the retail sector is expected to have a positive impact on the city’s economy, creating new jobs and stimulating economic growth.
Q: What makes New Bond Street special?
A: New Bond Street is special due to its unique blend of high-end retailers, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
