Knightsbridge’s most fabulous independent businesses

The V&A is a world-famous artistic hub that has made Knightsbridge a cultural hotspot. But the private gallery scene is very much worth a detour. Crane Kalman Gallery, which specialises in modern British art, has been a resident of Brompton Road since 1957. Its current show, An Autumn Exhibition, runs until 21 December and is well worth a visit. Harrods is world-renowned for its sprawling beauty, food and fashion halls – but did you know you can also stock up on some contemporary art here too? On the third floor you’ll find a branch of Halcyon Gallery, which was originally established by Paul Green in Birmingham in 1982. Here you’ll find a mix of work from both emerging and established artists, among them Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró. Of course, filling your home with beautiful art is about so much more than just adding a painting to a wall. For bespoke interior design solutions, head to Sterling Interiors in Knightsbridge, a family-run business that was established nearly two decades ago in 2004. The company specialises in both commercial and residential projects, providing consultations and design services, no matter how big or small the project. Sterling’s huge range of custom lights – ranging from minimalist architectural style to theatrical glass chandeliers and pendant clusters –are particularly impressive. 

There’s something about boutique shopping; just knowing that what you’re wearing has been beautifully designed and carefully created gives it that little pinch of je ne sais quoi. DITA has stores elsewhere in the world, but the independent luxury eyewear brand opened its debut (and only) UK shop on Brompton Road in 2022. Founded in 1995 and inspired by vintage frames from the 1950s and 1960s, the brand produces painstakingly-crafted glasses that have both optical and sunglass options in styles ranging from cool and classic to arty avant garde. If you’re sorted for eyewear but are about to say, ‘I do’, we recommend strolling further down Brompton Road to Caroline Castigliano. A master of modern femininity, the English-born designer has been at the forefront of British bridal design for 32 years. Whether you’re browsing for the big day or want to make an appointment for some serious wedding dress fittings, her Knightsbridge atelier is a must-visit. On the other end of the fashion spectrum is OffGrid on Brompton Road, which specialises in rare and sold-out luxury sneakers, including a huge range of sought-after Air Jordans. Finally, if you’re looking to embrace your Scottish roots or are attending a Highland wedding, there’s nowhere quite like House of Scotland for all your Caledonian needs. This niche atelier in Knightsbridge is home to traditional tartan, tweed jackets and kilts for men, women and children. 

As the festive season approaches, the giving of gifts is starting to loom. And, really, nothing says ‘I care’ more than diamonds. Samer Halimeh New York is one of the world’s leading diamond traders, having unearthed one of the rarest stones in existence: the Ocean Blue diamond. The Knightsbridge outpost is a destination for discerning buyers in search of unique, ethically sourced jewellery – anyone would be incredibly lucky to have one of Samer’s creations under their tree this Christmas. Looking for the perfect present for the man in your life? Knightsbridge Watches and Theodore’s Collection on Brompton Road both offer a wide range of certified luxury pre-owned Swiss timepieces, including brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Patek Philippe, Breitling, Panerai and more. Buying a luxury watch secondhand is not only more sustainable, it’s an excellent way to own a prestige brand without the hefty price tag.

Whether you’re looking for pure pampering or high-end health services, there are lots of fabulous, independently-owned choices available. Although located on the fourth floor of Harvey Nichols, Flavia Morellato has forged a name all of her own as a leading lymphatic therapist. Her treatments are said to improve circulation, digestion and metabolic rate, as well as boost the immune system – ideal for all the overindulging that December brings. Once you’ve kicked your body into gear, head to Serene by Dr Safa. Serenity is not something most people associate with a visit to the dentist, but Dr Safa has created a sanctuary in the heart of Knightsbridge that specialises in cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics. Lastly, drop into independent chemists such as Hayatt Pharmacy, Prince Pharmacy and Knightsbridge Pharmacy for almost everything else. These high-end pharmacies are one-stop shops for all things wellbeing, with the latter offering luxurious facials and even vaccination, healthcare and blood testing clinics.