Secret Tunnel and Being Fired for a Selfie: Former Harrods Employee Reveals the Secrets of the Legendary Department Store

2 December 2024

Harrods is not just a department store in London, it's a symbol of luxury and sophistication that attracts both tourists and celebrities from all over the world. Here, you can find premium products, enjoy delicious food in the stunning food halls and restaurants, and buy premium British souvenirs. However, behind the glitz and glamour, there are secrets that ordinary shoppers have no idea about. Recently, a former Harrods employee named Maggie Ann (@maggieanne.n), who worked at the department store for two years as a makeup artist and jewelry designer, revealed some of these secrets in TikTok videos.

Secret VIP Tunnel and Penthouse

One of Maggie Ann's most interesting revelations was the story about the existence of a secret tunnel for VIP guests. This tunnel is used by celebrities and royals to sneak in and out of the store without attracting public attention. According to Maggie, only five of the entire staff know where exactly the entrances to this tunnel are. In 2020, The Sun reported plans for a £300 million luxury hotel in the Kensington and Chelsea area, which would be connected to Harrods by this secret underground passage.

But that's not all. It turns out that Harrods has a secret penthouse where royals and select clients like Drake and Beyoncé can try on their favorite items in a private setting. In addition, there is a helipad on the roof of the department store, emphasizing the high level of service for the most special guests.

Special Rules for Staff

As Maggie explained, Harrods employees are specially trained on how to properly behave around celebrities. If an employee recognizes a celebrity, they should never show that they recognize them. Moreover, asking for a selfie with a famous person can lead to immediate dismissal, and security will not allow such a photo shoot to take place at all. Maggie mentioned that she has often seen foreign royal family members walking around the store surrounded by up to 15 bodyguards.

Cash Payments and Security

Another interesting rule at Harrods is related to cash. If a customer tries to pay more than £2,000 in cash, cashiers may tell them that the cash register is broken and they need to wait for a technician. In fact, this is just a trick that allows security to check the authenticity of the banknotes. Harrods believes that such large amounts of cash may be of dubious origin.

Even More Fascinating Facts

In her other videos, Maggie shares even more intriguing details. For example, she says that the staff cafeteria has its own Starbucks and Subway and also mentions perfumes that cost up to £250,000 per bottle.

Harrods has always been and remains a place with a luxurious yet mysterious atmosphere. Thanks to Maggie Ann's revelations, we now know that behind the glittering windows of this legendary department store there are fascinating stories that make it even more enticing.

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