Boots

Whilst the products and layout at this Boots leave much to be desired, the pharmacy deserves some props. The chap who helped me not only filled my prescription in under five minutes, he also explained in detail how I could get it for free next time by going through the NHS (socialised medicine for the win!)
When I’m in the market for cotton wool buds, hair grips or dry shampoo, this won’t be my first stop but I’ve no complaints with the pharmacy.

Whoever does the product display design at Boots needs a stern talking-​to… immediately.
Call me crazy, but I typically expect to find my hair styling products in the… wait for it… hair products aisle. (gasp) Shock and awe, right?! Apparently that’s only –generally– true. As it turns out, hair products –are– displayed in the hair products aisle… except for the random one-​off branded items which will be on a dedicated shelving unit off to the side. So if you don’t realise there’s a whole separate set of shelves just for your [Garnier, Vidal Sassoon, insert random other major brand here], you’re SOL.
Similarly, you’ll find most of the deodorant in the men’s grooming aisle. Y’know, all of the absurdly smelling ones like Axe or Tag. If you’re as compulsive about your brand preferences as I am, you’ll be glad to know that Boots actually stocks items like Old Spice. It’s just on the other side of the shelves from where you’d expect them… you know… away from all of the other deodorants.
And then don’t –even– get me started about how one would go about purchasing a neti pot from Boots. Let’s just say that it involves a special request and a week-​long lead time. When I need some nasal irrigation, I tend to prefer not to wait a week for my sinus relief. I know, I know. You’re meant to give up on the concept of instant gratification by age six, but I’m a big kid at heart, okay?
If I’d never experienced the way a proper pharmacy –should– be stocked and organised in a reasonable/​consumer-​friendly way, I wouldn’t be as irked. Unfortunately, I’ve actually been to ones that know what they’re doing…

A small branch of Boots the Chemist close to Holborn Circus, a few minutes’ walk down from Chancery Lane tube station.
It seems mostly to focus on the pharmacy side, which is available during all opening hours (note the branch is closed on Saturdays). Aside from that, there is a slightly abridged selection of toiletries and cosmetics as well as some sandwiches, drinks and snacks. Friendly, helpful staff.