Sh! is a sex shop truly worth shouting about. When it opened in 1992, Sh! was the first ever ‘women only’ erotic boutique, designed to give ladies a welcoming, safe place to shop for intimate items and get sound sexual advice. Recently, they’ve relaxed their rules: the ground floor is still reserved solely for lasses and couples, but the basement is now open to everybody, of all genders and persuasions. And everybody really should visit.
Sip a complimentary brewed served by owner Renee – who was named the UK’s Best Store Manager in the 2014 Erotic Trade Awards – and flick through the comprehensive offering of sex manuals and erotic novels, or explore the huge range of toys; they’re displayed out of their boxes on tables and shelves so you can try before you buy (although Sh! recommend holding vibrators against the tip of your nose rather than your down-belows to gauge how strongly they oscillate). In particular, the store’s wide selection of strap-ons is spot on, as is their carefully curated collection of playthings for beginners –Sh! can help you find the perfect unintimidating entry-level item, no matter what orifice you’d like it to enter.
The store was given a smart make-over in late 2014; you can now shop for something that’ll have your clit bouncing off the walls beneath a massive Kilmt displayed upon the ceiling. They’ve also introduced more of their fantastic evening workshops and talks; look out for presentations on female ejaculation, and scientists discussing their research into sexual matters. Attendees often enjoy a hefty discount on anything they purchase after classes, too.
Sh! is number 76 in our list of the 100 best shops in London.