Other branches of Penhaligon's in London:
Mayfair, Mayfair, The CityPenhaligon's reviews
The scents I've smelt are lovely but, like most perfume shops, Penhaligon's are really tight on their sample service - even when buying from them! Wake up Penhaligon's and other specialist perfume shops, it can't be that hard. The more samples you give to paying customers, the more sales/loyal customers you are likely to achieve in future. I'd have thought that was common sense and good retailing...??
by Iwantexcellentservice! (2 reviews), 06 Jul 2009
by Iwantexcellentservice! (2 reviews), 06 Jul 2009
Just been in to grab the last of the sales, and I tell you what, I have never seen such well-presented staff in my life. Was greeted with a warm smile and 'hello', given a few minutes to have a look around and then, as soon as I needed help, a lovely boy by the name of James came and explained in great detail what I was smelling.
I do believe that the comment below was them on an off day, because I got VAT of 15%. I believe that if you are nice to the staff, the staff are nice back. Please go and try this once-in-a-lifetime shopping experience. And if you want a little treat and have time on your hands, book yourself in to have a fragrance profiling done - it's free and it's worth it.
by jcburns, 14 Jan 2009
I do believe that the comment below was them on an off day, because I got VAT of 15%. I believe that if you are nice to the staff, the staff are nice back. Please go and try this once-in-a-lifetime shopping experience. And if you want a little treat and have time on your hands, book yourself in to have a fragrance profiling done - it's free and it's worth it.
by jcburns, 14 Jan 2009
BEWARE: Penhaligon's, quite a large company now, is using the VAT reduction as an excuse to line their own pockets instead of passing along the benefits to its customers. Ask for the VAT reduction - expect some sneering from snooty staff, but insist. The VAT reduction was for us, not for shops to maintain high prices and pocket the difference. What a rude shock.
by savvyshopper7, 20 Dec 2008
by savvyshopper7, 20 Dec 2008
Every time I'm in London I don't miss a visit to the Covent Garden shop. I like the Victorian atmosphere, the great service, and of course the fragrances. I usually end up spending enough to qualify for a free scent library. Even if you can't afford to buy their products, ask for some samples.
by dank, 24 May 2008
by dank, 24 May 2008
Lovely Dickensian atmosphere - old spice chests and apothecary's cabinets - and very attentive service. Like turning back the clock 130 years.
by Andy234, 09 Jan 2008
by Andy234, 09 Jan 2008
Staff were persistent - I'd prefer to be left to browse the store by myself. Also, having just checked the website I have to say it is appalling! Very basic format, presentation dull and, having just telephoned a store to enquire after something I've seen on the site, I learn it is out of date as well (the item I am after was discontinued 4months ago, despite being shown as available online). Come on, just because you're a long-established company with historic roots doesn't mean you can skimp on the modern details! Take a leaf from the Jo Malone or Space NK websites.
by vashti, 20 Apr 2007
by vashti, 20 Apr 2007
I love this shop. Everything is always beautifully gift-wrapped. Their online shop is wonderful too.
by SuzyCosta (2 reviews), 18 Feb 2006
by SuzyCosta (2 reviews), 18 Feb 2006
I've only visited their Brook Street branch (just off New Bond Street). Level of service was excellent. You can buy scent libraries, which is a great way to try out all their fragrances. Highly recommended.
by Anonymous, 06 Dec 2005
by Anonymous, 06 Dec 2005
Have we missed a great perfume shop in London? Let us know.
