A Spot of Food Shopping

Fortnum and Mason
If you want to buy upmarket food at upmarket prices, then Fortnum and Mason is the place to go.

Everything about the shop is exquisitely presented, from the vibrant window displays to the dazzling array of delicacies from all over the world. Some of it is worth buying simply for the packaging!

So when I had some time to kill before a meeting, I went to Fortnum and Mason to browse among the weird (chocolate covered ants anyone?) and wonderful (hand made truffles to die for) delights on offer.

Everything about Fortnum's feels civilised. Yes, of course you're paying for the privilege, but the politeness and impeccable manners of the smartly uniformed staff make it feel worth the price. It's not just shopping, it's an experience.

So what did I buy? Nothing especially fancy. Some Scottish oatcakes for my lovely Scottish neighbour, Ken (whom I knew would appreciate the posh Fortnum and Mason's tin) plus more oatcakes for my husband Joe (also Scottish).

I even picked up a bargain - some stylishly packaged after-dinner chocolates which were reduced by 75%.

In total, my visit to Fortnum and Mason cost me under £10.

But the enjoyment I had was priceless.