John Lewis

Its bloody huge.
Especially for a little town like Welwyn.
Truly the perfect department store, they have pretty much everything and the staff (somehow) have the navigational knowledge of a london cab driver.
Staff are friendly and helpful and will literally walk/​talk you around the entire store if necessary. Can be a little pricey, especially for things I regard as basic, but really good quality products almost without exception.
The selection of product seems a little randomly selected, lots of bits and pieces you think nobody could ever need/​want. In particular the furniture section seems to be much more ornamental than actually of use, but if you’re into brick-​a-​brack– pretty good, but probably cheaper to head to a charity shop.
In terms of electronics, make sure you do your research first. There’s no testing of product and sometimes you can end up talked into buying something you had no intention or need for.
Overall, fantastic department store, huge variety of product and lovely helpful staff.

JOhn Lewis is a great store, there’s no doubt about that. The one in Welwyn Garden City stocks pretty much all the usual stuff — clothing, cosmetics, electronics, homeware, haberdashery, appliances, oh I could keep going for a long time.
I went to the store at he weekend to buy some things for my new home — bins, pillows, cutlery storage, towels… and I am happy to say they had virtually everything on the list (although some was on the pricey side and I bought elsewhere). It wasn’t easy to find everything — the kitchen department is a bit haphazard, but if you hunt you’ll eventually find what you’re after.
The main problem with the store in Welwyn Garden City is the building. There are three floors and it’s a maze. Different areas are in separate small rooms so it’s very difficult to find what you’re looking for. I feel like a floor plan or more signs would be really helpful because it would be very easy to get lost.
The website suggests there’s store parking (for a fee), but even if you can’t find that there are many options nearby.

Great service. Good electronics section, haberdashery section is excellent. Everything is top quality really! :) Beaded Delights By Stef