Words Lauren McCowan

Mark Twain once wrote: ‘What one experiences in a barber’s shop the first time he enters one is what he always experiences in barbers’ shops afterwards till the end of his days’. The understanding between a man and his barber is a unique bond. There aren’t many people a man visits regularly, confides in and trusts enough to alter his physical appearance, albeit sometimes bolstered by a dram of the finest of whiskies. There has been such a resurgence of barber shops and the art of the ‘gentleman’s experience’ that we decided to search the world over to bring you the best of the best. Whiskey list included. Let’s begin in London.

For the modern, discerning gent, Pankhurst in London is the stuff of legends. Part speakeasy, part gentleman’s club and the brainchild of Brent Pankhurst- this barbering institution houses some of London’s best barbers. Pankhurst’s dedicated team will cut your hair impeccably, whilst you are seated in bespoke, hand upholstered chairs by Bentley. You can converse in the Johnnie Walker whiskey lounge with the crème de la crème of advertising, finance, art, acting and music- discuss business and inspiration while looking like a bastion of style.
A haven of masculinity on Carnaby St- you will walk out of Pankhurst looking like Bentley custom made you as well. For our international gents who can’t jet to London for a shave and fade- you can have your own piece of Pankhurst with their razor set.

Ted Baker discovered the secrets of Turkish grooming on a worldly travel trip through the backstreets of Istanbul. The Ottoman lounge is for gents who like things trim and proper and know that taking care of one’s appearance should never simply stop at his attire. This basement grooming room is for men who want to feel relaxed about their vanity while keeping their inner lad intact. Enjoy a beer while sampling the traditional grooming methods of a Turkish hamam combined with contemporary finishes that will stay with you long after your services are over. It’s the details that set this place apart and we recommend trying the ‘Cut a Dash with Ted’ service for your first experience here- along with a stylish haircut, a modern lad can also experience an invigorating hot and cold towel shave, manicure, ear flaming, threading and a massage. Pampering this good is addictive- make sure to try the coffee as well.

For the refined chap committed to the pursuit of male indulgence, look no further than Alfred Dunhill, Bourdon House. The former London residence of the Duke of Westminister, Bourdon House represents the epitome of luxury and the sartorialist experience. Alfred Dunhill’s emporium presents a unique global concept that offers everything from tailoring to the renowned ‘Cigar Keep’ (which houses Winston Churchill’s cigars) to The Spa and Barber at Alfred Dunhill. An intimate but unpretentious experience- every service at this barber is exquisitely well done but surprisingly reasonably priced. Run by Jay Ananya, this discreet studio and spa room offers contemporary styles as well as all the classics. Enjoy a Spicy Bloody Mary from the Cellar Bar, delivered right to your barber’s chair. Top of the line service so popular you need to book well in advance for a one on one service experience that will transport you. Be sure to wander through The Discovery Room- a curation of incredible products interspersed with museum pieces from the brand’s archives.

Another pearl in the crown of good grooming in London is Murdock, self-proclaimed ‘grooming specialists for gentleman of good taste.’ Murdock has created an offering of classic services along with a signature collection of cologne, grooming and skincare- to make your day a little bit fancier. Created by Irishman-about-London Brendan Murdock- he and his team have dreamed up a grooming experience inspired by the grand heritage of St James’ barbershops but tailored to style-conscious men. This curation of barbers can offer you everything from traditional wet shaves, full-service haircuts, how to shave tutorials and express facials. They can even shine your shoes. Magnificent really. To get amongst the culture of Murdocks- try their The Elliot Shavette Razor starter box– the perfect box to get straight to the point for a smoother, better shave. Get that velvety face feeling to go with your fresh new do. And yes- they serve your favourite tipple also.
For your first experience, try Murdock Soho in their own words: ‘An exquisite enclave for gentleman in London’s vibrant, bohemian village. Complete with its own bar to sip on a whisky or coffee while you wait.’

By Oliver Grand