At heart I am a bit of a ruralist, when it comes to relaxing, the idea of living in a little cottage by the sea, or laying by a little stream in the woods really appeals to me. Unfortunately moments like that don't really seem to happen nowadays, so my usual solace can be found in a book. Something that can really make me feel connected to the english countryside, to the calming greenery or the wild moors, (something such as Jane Eyre or Withering Heights). Books are perfect for escaping and for seeking adventure, but what if I could also find something that made me feel this way in my other comfort, fragrances? Well thanks to Gorilla Perfumes, it looks like now I can.

Flower's Barrow is a Gorilla Perfume released as part of their volume 2 collection. It is inspired by the Flower's Barrow iron age hillfort in Dorset, taken over by the Romans when they invaded. This perfume tells the story of a momentous moment in British history, but for me it also composes a metaphor for a true British romance novel that plays out to many different endings in my head.

The appearance of this perfume perfectly captures the story this scent tells. The imagery sets the scene of a building/home at the top of a large hill, hidden in a mound of wild flowers and cut off by the bay. This place is hidden, it protects itself from strangers that stumble upon it and only want to use it for its beauty and power, but it desperately longs to be loved by somebody who can set it at peace.

The fragrance at first is like home made berry jam, but underneath hides a layer that is floral, herbal and fresh. It is created with a blend of balancing Geranium Oil, soothing Roman Chamomile Oil, restorative Rose Absolute and protective Blackcurrant Absolute. Looking at these fruity and uplifting ingredients, at first I thought this would be a scent that would only call to celebrate summer with me, but upon smelling it for myself I could also sympathise with a perfume that is adaptable to provide comfort and warmth in the winter.

When first applied to the skin, like a new romance, the scent fills you with excitement and anticipation of whats to come. The blackcurrant aroma stands out with a bitter-sweet reaction that sparks an immediate interest. As the relationship grows the fragrance comfortably settles, balancing out with the rose and geranium oil, into a more floral and herbal aroma, like a soothing hug from someone who knows you completely. This perfume is rich and powerful, just one spray on your preferred pulse point enabled this scent to emanate throughout the day. It lasts upon the skin for hours after application and has many layers, the more you wear it, the more you come to know the secrets this fragrance is keeping close to its heart.

Flower's Barrow is a beautiful scent, that has multiple layers of aromas and emotions. I have never smelt a fragrance that can break my heart and bring me bliss all at the same time. It has all the strength of mother earth and the vulnerability of an innocent child. The atmosphere it creates is electric and I feel excited and beautiful. It create a whimsical feeling that will have you dreaming up your own dramatic stories. This perfume is definitely one for the daydreamers among us.

Thank you for reading my post, this perfume really touches my heart and is firmly holding a place in my favourites. It can be purchased online, at the Gorilla Perfumes store in Islington or at Lush Oxford Street. It is available in a 10ml and 30ml bottle in liquid form. If you love the scent as much as I do, you can also purchase the Flower's Barrow Bath Oil at Lush Oxford Street. Do let me know if you have tried this fragrance and what you think?


Helpful Ingredients

• Geranium Oil is used for its toning and balancing properties. It is antiseptic and astringent which helps even out colour and oiliness. 

• Rose Absolute is used for its soothing and moisturising qualities. It is used in aromatherapy to uplift the mood and restore balance.

• Blackcurrant Absolute is rich in many nutrients and has high anti-inflammatory qualities. It is very popular for its medical properties. 

• Roman Chamomile Oil is one of the gentlest essential oils, aromatherapist use it to treat bruises, allergies, stress and depression. It Soothes the mind, body, emotions and skin.