Travel Diary: The Hambledon Gallery

Each time I'm in England, I love to spend a lazy day in Winchester walking the streets, enjoying the cathedral (Jane Austen's no less) and perusing the shops--all especially fine in the summer. I was reminded today, going through some old memorabilia, that, without a doubt, my favorite boutique is The Hambledon--such a wonderful collection of well-designed goods. Each time I'm there I buy myself a new Cath Kidston change purse--as a tradition and because I use mine so often (every day, I admit) that the beloved thing gets tatty after awhile (I still have the first one I ever bought from 10 years ago!). Now, I'm so glad to see, they have an online shop. Elderdowns, Kilner jars, hawthorn and almond scented perfumes...so British, so lovely.