When I found out that a branch of Penhaligon's had opened in Manchester, I swooned so hard that I almost fell over. You see, Penhaligon's is one of those places that just exudes an aura of timeless glamour. Indeed, it does often feel that you're stepping back in time from the moment you walk through the door.
Penhaligon's specialise in simple perfumes - nothing too heavy, and usually scented with a floral top note. Indeed, if you're being uncharitable, you could describe it at a pinch as somewhere your Grandmother wouldn't be ashamed to buy her perfume from. But, if you know what you're looking for, a simple gift from here can really help you charm your way into a person's affections. I'm a massive fan of their "Love Potion No. 9" range. Scented with jasmine and bergamot, it's perfect for anyone looking for their own indefinable signature scent.
I'm also a sucker for good packaging, something which Penhaligon's has in spades. A lot of their bottles look like something you'd find on a 1950s debutante's dressing table which for me only serves to add to its unique charm.
Penhaligon's may come across as being a bit old fashioned to those not in the know, but that ony makes me love it more. Yes, it's a cliche, but they don't make perfumers like this any more read more