The Office for National Statistics released its retail sales data for the U.K. on Thursday. Retail sales in the U.K. increased 1.9% in September, exceeding expectations for a 0.3% gain, after a 0.4% decline in August. August's figure was revised down from a 0.2% increase.

The Rugby World Cup in England and Wales supported the retail sales in September.

Food prices climbed 2.3% in September. It was the highest gain since April 2014.

"Falling in-store prices and promotions around the Rugby World Cup are likely to be the main factors why the quantity bought in the retail sector increased in September at the fastest monthly rate seen since December 2013," ONS statistician Kate Davies said.

On a yearly basis, retail sales in the U.K. climbed 6.5% in September, beating forecasts of 4.8% increase, after a 3.5% rise in August. August's figure was revised down from a 3.7% gain.