The London Lounge

I bought some Cheaney Shacklton boots a few weeks ago, and I must say that I think they are upping their game considerably. A review of their styles on the web makes me worried for my wallet. The salesperson in the Jermyn Street shop was very helpful too.

My favourites at the moment are the sherry cask Glendronach 18yo and Glenfarclas 15 yo. I am also sampling Aberlour 12 y.o. I too am a fan of all things Ardbeg.

I have also invested in a bottle of Glenfarclas 40 yo for a 40 year reunion with some university pals in the Autumn. That should be epic!

My tub of SMN hard soap is running out! It has lasted just over a year.

Thank you for the suggestions Culverwood.

I eventually managed to get a copy of the large paper version of "The Golf Book of East Lothian" at a recent auction. Happily for much less than the £5,940 wanted by the firm selling one on Amazon!

Hello All,

I am wanting to visit the Florence area this year, and was wondering if anyone can recommend a hotel? I may also visit Lucca. I don't really want to spend more than £200 per night or so, and like older buildings with some character.

Thanks for any suggestions.

I have a lovely Aquascutum trench coat that I picked up at their factory shop in Hemel Hempstead 15 years ago. Reduced from £995 to £105 due to a cancelled overseas order. I wish I had bought two now.

I would suggest "Zorba the Greek" for an interesting discourse about whether it is better to live every day as if it were your last, or to live every day as if you would live forever. Churchill's "My Early Life" is a rip-roaring read, and helps the reader to understand his great strengths and partic...

I like to sail but don't manage very often. Usually on a friend's Dufour 36, out of Buckler's Hard on the Solent.

Did some sailing on a Hobiecat in the Carribean a few month's ago, but that doesn't really count!

I too love old books. I have just taken a copy of Corbett's "Francis Drake and the Tudor Navy" to my local book binder for a rebind. I try to find books I want to read with bindings I want to look at. If necessary I will find a book I want to read and turn it into a book that is also good to look at...

There are excellent wines from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chile, California, Washington State, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, England (white and sparkling). I am not convinced about Greece and Argentina but that is probably down to my lack of knowledge. I also know little about wines from...

I don't really like the v neck sweater and tie combination, but to each his own. I prefer the crew neck sweater which does not require a tie. Sometimes I wear them with a day cravat, although my girlfriend thinks it affected.

I agree - versatility is associated by how comfortable you feel wearing it.I think my favorite items are versatile because I want to wear them and will push the envelope if required.

I am not sure I agree with Hectorm. This is a style of coat I find very versatile - e.g. with cords or jeans in the pub, walking the dog, for work in a less formal atmosphere. I wear my less formal overcoats much more than my formal ones, which only get worn to things like lawyers conferences or fun...

Just bought some Cacharel Pour Homme - very good, nutmeg then woody, with a touch of vetiver. Originally made in the 1980's I believe. My other favorites are the original Polo and Agua Brava.