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130-year-old scent emporium with royal warrants.

For a sweet-smelling, sensory overload, Penhaligon’s has to be the place to go. From the original Hammam Bouquet to the Winston Churchill’s favourite - the Blenheim Bouquet - these delicate scents are quintessentially English, sold in the traditional style one would expect from a holder of two royal warrants. Established in the 1870s by William Henry Penhaligon, the store’s perfumes and pomades quickly became a favourite with the aristocracy and have continued to attract high profile attention to this day. The shopping experience here is open, relaxed and informal, despite the shop’s reputation for exclusivity. Make sure you ask for advice if you’re not sure what to choose – the staff are more than happy to share the Penhaligon smells’ secret with you. If you’re unsure – you can opt for their “scent library” product which allows you to try every fragrance. Quercus and Bluebell are two of the better known flower perfumes, which are expensive but worth it. Soaps, candles and shaving equipment are also on offer. The gift-wrapping here is as exceptional, as you would expect, making it the perfect place to seek out a special gift. Admittedly, these products don’t come cheap, but 130 years of history, royal patronage and unmatched quality don’t come cheap.

Best for:
Perfumes and pomades, royal smells and scents.

Did you know?
Prince Charles awarded the shop another royal warrant in 1988.