There’s no denying that a good beard and tidy barnet are all the rage these days, (cue Mad Men references). And I should probably also point out that yes, I am NOT a man and I wouldn’t be gracing my presence in any of these establishments myself, but I do know plenty of lads who seem to care more about their hair than my female friends do. So I very kindly put together this nice wee listicle of the top 10 barbers in London so you can be confident that you’ll exit one of these with a dazzling do. Here they are:
10. Ruffians
Originally from Edinburgh, these guys have come down to London to conquer the competitive barber scene. You’ll find them in their stunning outlet in Covent Garden. They even have their own brand in men’s products meaning you’ll find it hard to leave without treating yourself. They aint cheap, but premium service never is remember.
9. Ted’s Grooming Rooms
11 Duke St, Marylebone, London W1U
Part of the Ted Baker brand, Ted’s Grooming Rooms don’t disappoint. Get a chilled beer on arrival, sit back and relax while you get your hair styled. They’re hot shave specialists and known for their impeccable service. They’ve 8 outlets across the city to include this one as well as their By Appointment Only Lounge, but a little birdie told me the Duke St outlet topped their list.
8. Spa & Barber At Alfred Dunhill
2 Davies Street, London W1K 3DJ
This grand Georgian house is home to Dunhill department stores and their popular barber. Enter the doors and you suddenly feel like you are part of a private gentlemen’s club. And it doesn’t stop there, they offer everything from manicures to massages. This place is so popular in fact that you will probably have to book an appointment a few weeks in advance. Conveniently there is a full bar service to avail of during your appointment.
7. The Refinery
60 Brook Street, London W1K 5DU
Situated in Mayfair, like Alfred Dunhill’s, The Refinery also has a full spa. They are also known for housing Britain’s best wet shaver Parsa Rad – so if you’re looking for a good shave you’re in good hands. Head in here, unwind and leave the rest up to the experts. There’s also another outlet in Harrods.
6. Truefitt & Hill
71 St James’s St, St. James’s, London SW1A
If you’re looking for five star service and you like to treat yourself then Truefitt & Hill is the only place to head to. And you must request a straight raser shave when you’re here – they’ve been perfecting it for over 200 years. They’ve their own brand in shaving products too which make super presents. Truefitt & Hill is apparently one of the oldest barbers in the world and their world class service proves that.
5. Huckle The Barber
Enter Huckle The Barber, situated in the trendy Shoreditch and be handed a chilled craft beer. Chris Ward the owner is known for his no-nonsense approach to running his place with all the pleasantries of a traditional barber shop. Chris has built his business on super service and Howling Hops. Huckle The Barber is definitely for hipsters in need of fixing their beards and barnets.
4. Gentlemen’s Tonic
31 Bruton Pl, Mayfair, London W1J
With five outlets worldwide, it’s clear these guys are in a league of their own when it comes to modern grooming. Each alcove has its own LED TV that screens sports so you can catch up with the latest while you get groomed. It’s tucked away on Bruton Place so if you like to be discreet about getting spa treatments you’ll get all the privacy you need here.
3. Joe & Co.
22 Peter Street, London W1F 0AG
Joe Mills is behind this super establishment. Joe & Co. are famous for their informal setting, making it an ideal barbers to pop into if you’re not a regular customer and just visiting London for business or pleasure. Their fridge is always fully stocked with chilled beers and soft drinks. They’ve literally everything on offer here in this contemporary outlet without the fussiness. They’re really active across all social channels so you can get a feel for their service without even stepping foot inside!
2. Sharps
9 Windmill St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 2JF
It was a nearly a tight draw for the top position on this list. Sharps an American grooming brand that have several outlets in the UK and are probably one of the most affordable barbers on the list. 9 Windmill St is a barber – coffee shop combo and they serve up a mean coffee. Probably the perfect place to meet up with a couple of the lads to catch up and get groomed together, quite like what the ladies do in nail and hair salons.
1. Murdock
Murdock are kings of the barber shops in London – they have 6 outlets that all come highly recommended. Walking in, you’d think you were stepping into the set of Sweeney Todd but don’t let that deter you – you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who seem to know exactly what you want without saying a word. Their service is world-class and their products some of the most lusted after in terms of luxury men’s grooming brands. You’ll be sure to leave feeling your upmost dapper.