The Hambledon, Winchester

Hidden away next to Winchester Cathedral is a little gem of a shop called The Hambledon.

It's a haven of domestic beauty - and every corner of it looks like something found on Pinterest, in Vogue or a really fashionable home magazine.

I end up in The Hambledon every time I go to Winchester. I find myself poring over their kitchenware, wishing for a little place to call my own which could be filled with the beautiful products they have on display. Delicate glass bottles and vases, gorgeous pie bowls and quaint decanters sit on simple yet stylish shelves. Books detailing the wonders of shopping in Paris, cycling in Amsterdam and culinary delights made easy. Little postcards to send your loved ones and pretty but fake flowers (which you would never know were fake until closer inspection) to give your home the sense of everlasting Spring.

Their beauty range is also to die for - lotions and potions from all sorts of high-end brands sit waiting to be tested, and candles of all scents finely perfume the air. They even have a small area dedicated to children's parties, stocked high with pretty paper straws, cute plates and bunting and cheeky little gifts ready to be placed in goody bags. I'm pretty sure they aren't just a favourite with little ones!

I visited Winchester with a friend last weekend and introduced her to The Hambledon. We found a few favourites, and I even fell oddly in love with a candle which seemed to be specifically for men - it smelt like a very clean (and very attractive) gentleman's skin...and I had to try hard not to buy it and take it home! It sounds strange but it really was lovely...

I just wanted to buy everything, but I will be honest; it's not overly cheap. You will find some little gems in here which you could pick up for under ten pounds, or within your budget, but the really gorgeous stuff is a little more expensive due to the true quality of it all.  Especially the clothing! It certainly is a treat for the eyes and is perfect for finding the perfect wedding present or special gift. Let me tell you, it's especially amazing at Christmas, as you can imagine!

This post was not sponsored, before you ask or start pointing your fingers. I just wanted to share The Hambledon with you. Not just because it makes for some very pretty photographs (I had to stop myself from spamming my Instagram account after I left!) but it's definitely somewhere that should be shouted about. I'm a firm believer in letting people know about something you like!

It's also a little insight into my trip to Winchester - I had a lovely day and had so much fun catching up with my friend. It's such a beautiful little city and I can't wait for summer picnics on the grass in front of the cathedral.

They do have a website and, joy of joys, you can buy online! So even if you live a hundred miles away, you can still have a little bit of The Hambledon in your home.The site is stunning too, and I wager you'll be trawling through the photos and goodies for a while. It's definitely a good way to wind down in the office last thing on a Friday! You can find The Hambledon online HERE.

I'm already planning my next visit and they trinkets I will be buying. I have my eye on a little glass vase...or two...

Jo

xxx