Move over Selfridge's, John Lewis has history too. In May, John Lewis reveals its 150 year story in a new exhibition celebrating the landmark anniversary of the brand whose workers are also co-owners of the company.
Head up to the third floor of the flagship store at 300 Oxford Street for the exhibition, Stories of a Shopkeeper. It sets the scene on a Victorian street, allowing visitors to enter the exhibition through a draper's shop, the original incarnation of the brand in 1864. The exhibition contains artefacts such as the original book in which the first day's takings were recorded, a hat worn by Queen Mary, and items recovered from the store's bombing in 1940.
For those feeling a little braver, the store will also open its roof to the public for the first time with a roof garden designed by Royal Horticultural Society National Young Designer of the Year, Tony Woods. We're promised events such as film screenings, pop-up restaurants and World Cup parties throughout the summer. Keep an eye on this page for further information.
For real die-hard fans of the brand, a range of specially commissioned 150th anniversary merchandise will be available at the pop-up shop in the Oxford Street store from 3 May.
Stories of a Shopkeeper opens 3 May for seven weeks. Free, just turn up. Public Roof Gardens are free, but booking may be required for some events.
