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Archive for June 13th, 2009

June 13, 2009

As regular readers know I am a huge fan of London’s traditional barbers. I like their quiet competence, their solidity and peacefulness. A haircut should be a relaxing experience, there is nothing better than getting a haircut from a barber you can trust.

With that in mind I went for a haircut at Cathryn Dukes Barber Shop in Shepherd Market, Mayfair. This small but friendly barbers is tucked away on the north-eastern edge of Shepherd Market. It brings a little bit of manly style to a square which is otherwise filled with upscale eateries and jewellers, and the odd art gallery.

The barber shop sits at a slight angle to Shepherd Market, so is welcomingly quiet. This is a two chair setup, with Cathryn and her colleague Ade doing the barbering.

It soon became apparent that the shop has a very loyal clientele. Several customers came and went while I was there and Cathryn greeted all of them by their first name. I thought this was a great recommendation that this barber’s should have so many regular customers. It also made for a friendly relaxed salon.

While she cut my hair I asked Cathryn about her barbers. She is a trained men’s barber and has had the shop for ten years. This also made me feel comfortable, that she was good enough to establish a tradition that has lasted ten years.

 

Cathryn cut my hair and I was really pleased with the result. Her cutting is quick and very precise. I have a slight irregularity in the hair on my right temple where it tries to lift into a curl. Had it all my life. Some barbers in the past have tended to scalp it, whereas Cathryn cut it perfectly into shape.

I can see why all these chaps become regular customers. Relaxed and friendly, yet with a quiet dignity and competence all of its own, this is a really good London barbers. I recommend it, so do try it yourself.

Details

You can drop in and they will cut your hair without an appointment. Alternately you can ring them on the number below and make an appointment. This is a cash-only barbers, so no credit cards. Haircuts cost from £18.00.

Cathryn Jukes Barber Shop
14 Shepherd Market
London W1J 7QG

Tel: +44 (0) 20 7493 3231
Mob: 07870 651556