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Photograph: Jess Hand
Photograph: Jess Hand

The most bewitching places to go in London

Leave the fake broomstick at home. We're getting real about the city's witchy scene

Contributor: Rhian Daly
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You might not think it when you’re running late for work and fighting for the tiniest spot on the Tube, but London can be pretty magical. We don’t mean because of its scenic skyline, top food scene or wealth of opportunities, but in the real witchy definition of magic.

Look close enough and you’ll find shops, events and communities all dedicated to the art of everything spells and occult. There are 21st-century witches working their magic all over the city and dispelling the notion that witchcraft is all broomsticks and black cats. They’re more than ready to help you get in touch with your witchy side, so visit one of these hotspots and unlock your Wicca potential.

Recommended: Find spooky atmosphere galore at London's most haunted pubs.

Magic shops, classes and workshops in London

1. Treadwell's

Ever since its opening in 2013, Treadwell's bookshop has been the hotspot among spiritualists and witchcraft practitioners alike. Its shelves hold a bewitching selection of works on Wicca, esoteric studies and much more. The books are carefully curated, both old, quirky and new works; all of which are chosen with the experienced occultist, the curious academic or the young student in mind. Treadwell's is stop number one on your witchy education. Once you’ve stocked up on reading material, check out its upcoming events, which range from performances, workshops and walking tours, or get your tarot read and see what’s in your stars.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

Broomsticks, who? No, no, no, witches don't actually use those things. This cosy magical shop in east London sells all the right witchy accessories, including candles, potions and spell rings for both the budding and experienced witch. Owned by witch Semra Haksever, who creates bespoke spells for her customers as well as hosting private ritual sessions, Mama Moon has its own coven for witches to share the cosmic vibes.

Go along for moon rituals and manifesting workshops. You can even get Haksever to create a custom spell for you to help you move forward in different areas of your life.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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This one is for the budding baby witches looking to build up their collection of mystic accessories and tools, and get fully equipped for entering the world of witchcraft. This new-age shop offers astrology books, crystals, tarot cards and personal horoscopes. Fed up of jumping through internet hoops whenever you want to consult your birth chart? Here, you can get a print of your own personal chart to keep handy.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

Known for selling some of the best crystals in east London, She’s Lost Control is a shopping experience for the awakened generation. The store is the hub for a thriving community of people practising a sacred yet sustainable lifestyle. So, get yourself down to Broadway Market and find your higher purpose.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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The tiny Viktor Wynd Museum displays everything that has glittered and caught the eye of its founder, from rare priceless marvels of the natural and scientific worlds, from occultist paintings to two-headed kittens. Its events programme is well worth a peek for magical goings on of all kinds, including poppet-making workshops for anyone in need of a protective charm, and palm readings accompanied by chocolate absinthe

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

Since 1673 Chelsea Physic Garden has occupied four acres of land on the edge of the Thames after it was established to grow medicinal plants by the apothecaries. These days, the gardens have a real mystic vibe. As one of London’s oldest botanic gardens and a herbal witches’ paradise, it contains a unique living collection of around 5,000 different edible, unusual and medicinal plants that have changed the world. Bring a notebook (or your notes app) – you'll find plenty of inspiration for your next potion here. 

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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You don't need your bumbag or ridiculous wellies for this kind of festival. Maybe pack your favourite healing crystal, instead? As one of the largest esoteric markets in the UK, Witchfest sells an array of mystic treats for the modern witch. But most of all, the talks and workshops centred around Wiccan, paganism and all things occult are a budding witch's paradise. Head to Croydon and indulge your dark side.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer

This bookshop has a reputation for offering one of the world’s largest selections of spiritual and esoteric literature. With titles on Eastern philosophy and Western esoterica, as well as a wide range of materials on mind, body on spirit, the shop also stocks statues, crystals, tarot decks and talismans to assist your practice or spiritual journey. You can also get tarot readings in store or hear directly from authors themselves at one of the shop’s regular talks.

Ellie Muir
Contributing writer
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