I’m back and exhilarated after another visit to the hugely successful Barnes Fragrance Fair. It took me four hours to get there, but it was worth it. Veganperfumegirl describes it as “Perfume Christmas” and I couldn’t put it better.

What is it? It’s a showcase for small and/or independent or niche creators to demonstrate and sell their fragrance creations, This year we had eau de parfums, scented jewellery, lotions, potions, candles, reed diffusers, scented parasols, and soap (Thank you Fiole for selling me my annual Nesti Dante multi pack).

In the background, there are workshops, talks, and panels that you can book for. I could see Sarah McCartney in her natural environment, hosting a workshop in a classroom. I caught up with Suzy Nightingale, of On The Scent Media, as well as On the Scent editor, Jo Fairley, who was selling the magazine itself, (don’t get many editors doing that!) and happily stopping for a chat and a selfie in a very busy by-the-entrance pitch.

Anyone can visit. You don’t have to be an industry insider or a blogger or a retailer. It’s open to anyone who likes perfume. You only book for talks or workshops. It was a beehive of activity and aromas. Friendly stewards are on hand to help out. If the crowds are blocking you from visiting a stall, come back in a few minutes, or go to the other end of Barnes Green and visit the other load of stalls there.

This year, a whimsical addition was a scented walk between the two buildings, complete with sniffing machines (see picture). Scented parasols were available- an innovation triggered by the weather forecast. Co-sponsor Yardley had a pitch by the door, and, yes I did stop and buy stuff – it’s SO affordable! This year there was also the added bonus of tea and refreshments. Much tea did flow. Some stallholders were on their feet and being their best social selves from 9am to 5pm. Exhausting!

Top tips

1. Take a pen and write the name of everything you smell on the scent strip.
2. Keep them in your handbag until you get home. Your handbag will smell great.
3. Take your birthday money. Temptation is everywhere.
4. Allow several hours and step outside for little breaks.
5. Wear what makes you happy, there’s no dress code.
6. It’s dog friendly, so don’t bring your cat.
7. Not really a day out for the kids, although sensible older teenagers might enjoy it. On the other hand, teenagers are expensive, so don’t bring them. I left mine at home.

I’m going to break down my visit into edible bites so you don’t go word blind. Watch this space.

How to get there

Barnes is south of the Thames, opposite Hammersmith. There is no tube, but there are two train stations and many bus stops.

The Barnes train goes regularly from Platform 20 in Waterloo. Do not do as I did and try and guess the way when you come out. I ended up asking eight strangers who didn’t live locally and was on my way to Roehampton on foot. Barnes Green, where the Fair is hosted, is not the same as Barnes Common. Turn right out of the station, walk through a woody lane and past parked cars (sounds dodgy, but wasn’t) and the trees give way to posh houses. You are nearly there and can easily reach Barnes Fragrance Fair from here.