A round up of the Newness in store this January

January - a chance to fill the shop with newness! 

We have introduced 2 new collections of Ortigia Toiletries in addition to Zagara and Sandalo which we showcased in the run up to Christmas.   We have added the exotic Fico d’India range, inspired by the cactus of the same name with amazing orange flowers which grows wild across Sicily. The perfume boast a wonderfully powdery fig and cedar fragrance that comes straight from the Mediterranean.  The other range is Melograno (Pomegranate) in a rich red/pink packaging with a scent inspired from the exotic fruit.   It is very rich, dry, dusty and slightly bitter.  

We love the Italian Ortigia brand using natural products indigenous to Sicily and inspired by the aesthetics, colours and scents of Italy’s most tropical region and we're delighted the products have been such a hit.  All the products are made from natural perfume and ingredients: olive oil, vegetable glycerine, and organic colours, and are paraben-free. The luxurious range is presented in signature decorative packaging also inspired by Sicilian images and colours.

Newness also from One Hundred Stars Kimonos, Gowns and Scarves in 2 new colourways of their striking stork design and a brand new collaboration with Kew Royal Botanic Gardens.  Beautiful Passion Flower and Magnolia Designs which  have been created from one of the world's foremost archives of rare and historically significant artwork held at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. 

Together with some quirky new fish vases and striking new Frida shot glasses and coasters and an interactive glow T shirt for kids.  We're full again of great ideas for 2019.

'Archway my Way' by Jen Pedler

Jen Pedler 'Queen of Archway' and dear friend of map gift shop is back leading a series of guided walks titled 'Archway my Way'  and the next walk is on Saturday 16th February at 2pm tickets available here. Jen has set up a 10% discount code for our customers and Archway Card Holders. The code is archfeb19. Entering this code when booking will discount the ticket price for both standard and concession by 10%. 

"I’ve lived in Archway for over thirty years. Let me show you my manor!" 

Archway's regeneration is nearly complete; its brutalist tower has been clad and turned into flats, the controversial gyratory system has finally gone and is now the amazing new piblic space - Navigator Square.

left.  archway tower in full brutalist glory, centre.  archway tower shrouded during cladding, right. archway tower of today.

On this walk you will, see the place where Dick Whittington famously turned again.  Learn why a bridge was built where there should have been a tunnel.  Hear why priests disguised themselves to buy a pub.  Stand on a point that's at the same level as the top of the dome of St Paul's & get fabulous panoramic views from some of the highest points in London.

Left.  map gift shop in 1904 and 2014 right top Whittington's cat right centre. views from Archway Bridge, right bottom Archway Bridge (also known as suicide bridge)

And what's more..... if you fancy a bit of retail therapy, this is possibly the only guided walk that exits through the gift shop! 


This circular walk starts at Archway tube station (meet in the ticket hall) and lasts about two hours - you can book tickets through Eventbrite!  We'll post more information about future dates soon!