Arding & Hobbs

Arding & Hobbs is a grand Edwardian building on Lavender Hill featuring a striking central glass dome and ornate stone work across its seven floors. Modern retailers now occupy the interior spaces while the exterior preserves the original architectural grandeur of the early department store.

The store was established in 1876 as a retail destination in South London. A fire destroyed the original structure in 1909, which led to the construction of the current building in 1910 designed by architect James Gibson.

The building has shaped the local character of Clapham for generations as a gathering place for shopping and socializing. It remains a focal point in the neighborhood where people come for everyday retail needs and to move through the area.

The building sits right next to Clapham Junction Station, making it straightforward to reach by public transport. Multiple retail outlets and workspace areas occupy the interior, giving visitors different reasons to explore the building.

The building appeared in the 1981 film Nighthawks and a 1994 episode of the television series Mr. Bean, making it recognizable to audiences beyond South London. These film appearances connected it to British popular culture in unexpected ways.

Location: London Borough of Wandsworth

GPS coordinates: 51.46348,-0.16738

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06