1st October 2019
A walking tour with a renowned stylist is the best way to see the streets of London highlighting quintessential English brands and fashion houses, exclusive ateliers and introducing specialist boutiques, private clothing collectors and royal favourites. Maybe stop off in the café of an iconic British fashion brand, enjoy an Aga toasted teacake and other British delicacies.
If you are looking for a unique venue, entertain a special group in a prestigious private club room belonging to a renowned Savile Row tailors. Take a tour of one of the most famous London department stores; visit the VIP shopping areas and learn of the fascinating history behind the famous façade.
Embark on an urban adventure exploring street art and graffiti culture with a local expert before exploring the Mary Quant exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum. For design aficionado’s an ‘Art Afternoon Tea’ is a must. Inspired by the life and work of internationally acclaimed British sculptor, Antony Gormley, enjoy pastry incarnations of his famous sculptures, One Apple, Body and Fruit, Full Bowl and Matrix II. See his latest landmark exhibition with the full-size sculptures at the Royal Academy until early December.
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Explore the history of tartan and its enduring appeal from clan origins to a bespoke kilt experience. It was Chanel who brought Tartan to the fore in the fashion world inspired by the colours of the Scottish countryside and legendary fashion designer Alexander McQueen used tartan to great effect to symbolise Highland life and it’s turbulent past.
Araminta Campbell, designer of Dream Escape’s own tweed has many credits to her name including designing the house tartan and tweed of The Fife Arms in Braemar. Attended by Dream Escape owners, Holly and David, The Fife Arms was officially re-opened early this year by HRH Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The hotel itself is an art and design masterpiece. As well as interior soft furnishing’s in Araminta’s beautiful tweed, it contains over 14,000 antiques and artworks – highlights of which include a watercolour of a stag’s head painted by HM Queen Victoria.
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Experience a private visit to the weaving mill and workshop at Magee’s of Donegal. Famed for its handwoven tweed this is a great point to begin an exploration of The Wild Atlantic Way. Perhaps visit a renowned Jewellery workshop and admire the one-off pieces and custom designs created for The Game of Thrones series including Joffrey’s Crown.
In Dublin, combine a stay at the Westbury Hotel with a discovery of local Irish artisans and designers. Start with a visit to the only female Irish glove-maker and her exquisite designs. Step into the world of a unique perfumier, a nose who has worked with and knows the best in the business. This home to rare and special scents is a truly fascinating experience. Visit a family run Irish cashmere business with roots in county Kildare. Enjoy the luxurious fabric and experience a brand rich with Irish culture and heritage with a strong passion for Irish design and quality.
Check out our art and design inspired itineraries below;