On Friday the 14th of October 2022, Battersea Power Station opened its doors to the public for the first time after undergoing extensive renovations.
The very building which once produced the energy that enabled people to eat, drink, shop, and play in the City, now provides the venue for a new generation to do the same.
Battersea Power Station
I visited Battersea Power Station on Saturday the 15th to see what it was like and experience some of the opening weekend activities. I went in with an open mind and left with the belief that Battersea Power Station is a glorified shopping mall in London. When I first entered Battersea Power Station I was shocked by how dark it was inside. Immediately I felt like I was inside a Barry’s workout class where it is dark except for some neon lights. The shopping space is open and airy; however, it seemed to carry everyones’ voices throughout the entire mall. The opening weekend’s public workout classes and drum performances made Battersea Power Station extremely loud and overwhelming. Many of the shops on the second floor were still ‘coming soon.’ I was disappointed in the collection of stores as they are very common stores you can find all over London. I would not recommend going to Battersea Power Station just for the shopping as there are much nicer shopping areas in London where you can find the exact same brand names.
With that being said, the new flagship Zara store in the Battersea Power Station development is 100% worth the visit. My favourite Zara in London used to be the one next to St. Paul’s Cathedral, but this new Zara has taken the number one spot. The flagship store has two floors and sells women’s, men’s, children’s, and home products. There are separate little rooms dedicated to shoes and accessories, lingerie, and athleisure. The store is bright and has huge mirrors and windows that bring in natural light. Walking around the store is a very pleasant experience and if I am ever in the mood to shop at Zara, I would consider travelling out of my way to go to this location.
So, will I visit Battersea Power Station again? Answer: No. If you are a tourist wanting to go shopping in London I would recommend sticking to classic shopping destinations like Oxford Street and Regent’s Street where you will find the exact same stores that are in Battersea Power Station. If you are looking for a more relaxing shopping experience with cute boutiques, I recommend going to Marylebone or Notting Hill. However, if you are looking for the best Zara in London, I recommend travelling to the newest flagship location. Battersea Power Station and Zara can be accessed via the Northern Line. Battersea Power Station is dog friendly.
XO, Alicia
