The first Annick Goutal boutique in the UK has opened on Motcomb Street, a tucked-away retail enclave in glossy Knightsbridge.

Although it’s only ten minutes walk from Harvey Nichols, it’s a bit off the beaten track as far as the tourist trade is concerned. This makes for a quiet shopping experience, which can come as a relief after the bustle of the big Knightsbridge stores.

The boutique sells the full Goutal range, including toiletries, candles and the L’Orientalistes collection. Fragrances such as Sables, not always widely available, can be found here.

On the main floor, there’s a quiet space with seats and a hand-basin, so that you can test and remove the scents. Downstairs, there’s a lingerie room with a small jewellery range, and a display of fragrances in Baccarat bottles.

A spa/treatment room is expected to be ready later this month.

Best sellers: Les Nuits d’Hadrien and Petite Cherie.

Getting there: 20 Motcomb Street, London SW1W 8LB. Tel +44 (0) 207 823 2176.

The nearest tube station is Knightsbridge. Follow the Harvey Nichols signs to the exit, walk down Sloane Street and take the first left into Harriet Street, turn right to exit Lowndes Square, and Motcomb Street is first left. Annick Goutal is about twenty yards down on the left.

Nearby: There’s a Christian Louboutin shop on the corner; you have to make it past the shoes to get to the fumes!

— images & report filed by Nina.

See also: Perfume Shopping in London