A couple of years ago, Vans took the UK by force, but with so few stores stocking these State-side gems, finding a pair, in your size and requested colour, seemed to be an impossible task.

That's all about to change as tomorrow, Vans opens its first UK store in Kingly Court, Carnaby Street's new 3-storey retail complex.

Besides crowd pleasers like Vans and Puma, Kingly Court will be home to independent retailers with names like Bitchinslacks and Harriet's Muse.

And with the swish new members bar The Kingly Club, Banksy graffiti art and Hakkasan's new concept "Chowbar" (opening early next year), it's even worth braving the hellish souvenir strip to get to this pot of gold.

Vans European flagship store opens Saturday December 6
Kingly Court, 47 Carnaby St, W1
Celebrations with skate and BMX half-pipe demos from 9am-5pm

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