When everyday life becomes a chore, there’s nothing better than getting away from it all on a long and leisurely weekend in the country. The air is fresher, the grass is greener, and you can make time for enjoying the slower pace of life. The question is, how does the modern gent pack for the occasion? We sat down with fashion, travel and lifestyle blogger Ben Heath for his expert advice on the perfect country weekend — from packing to parting ways — as we explored the rich and rural grounds of Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa. Here’s Ben Heath’s travel guide of the luxury countryside hotel.
Making the Most of a Country Escape
It’s the sense of freedom, the colour of the grass and trees, and the fresh air that make the countryside the best place to be. On leisurely weekends away I like to take my dog for a walk and really stretch my legs, but if the heavens aren’t playing ball, my favourite thing is to cosy up with my wife by the fireplace in the library with a good book, a dram of whisky and a couple of games of chess.
Taking part in the falconry was remarkable. As someone with a very well-trained dog, it was fascinating to see how these birds can be commanded and controlled with simply a titbit of food. The astounding beauty of nature makes falconry such a unique thing to do whilst in the countryside – it certainly isn’t something you can just do on a whim in the city!
Dressing for the Occasion
To take part in this activity, I embraced the seasons and went for the Barbour Summer Print 2 Short Sleeved shirt and Barbour Neuston Twill shorts to achieve that classic spring look. Luckily, I did bring the Barbour Fjord sweater for added warmth, as the temperature did drop. I loved the print on the shirt which feels like a different direction for Barbour and it’s a lovely added touch. Classic checks will always have a place in my heart but it’s good to vary the look sometimes.
I adore being around horses. You tend to forget just how grand these animals can be and some of them were huge. I’ve been horse-riding a handful of times in my younger days and although I’ve never had an official riding lesson, I somehow managed to survive a lesson in polo. One of the things I appreciated the most during the riding was putting the phone away and just taking in my surroundings.
Dressing for the Occasion
The Barbour Country Check 8 tailored shirt is an absolute Barbour classic; hard-wearing for those more hands-on activities. I also loved the Barbour Neuston Twill Chinos and the Barbour Essential Casual jacket for the added warmth – it can get chilly in the stables.
There is something about the fresh, British countryside air that’s not to be taken for granted. I find when it comes to walks and having a wander, the best are the ones that are unplanned. Take the dog and simply set out; find some green space and meander with no sense of time or direction – until you get a bit lost and need to look it up, of course!
Dressing for the Occasion
I layered up for a springtime stroll with the Barbour Country Check 8 tailored shirt and Barbour Neuston Twill chinos. The Barbour Essential Causal jacket on top was a great lightweight piece to shield me from any unwanted wind and rain.
The main thing is to pack sensibly when escaping to the country. Layers are so important in British spring and summer as the weather isn’t always on your side. You can’t go wrong with a couple of high-quality shirts and packing a blazer or jumper for the evenings. Finally, don’t neglect the importance of smart shoes; loafers should serve you well in the warmer months.
For travelling, my ideal outfit would include the Barbour Country Check 8 tailored shirt as it's so versatile. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, with a blazer or jumper being the ideal top layer. On the bottom I would always go for chinos as they’re comfortable yet smart.
Unwinding in the Countryside with the Barbour Way of Life
The Barbour Way of Life is doing everything with a smile on your face. It’s engrossing yourself in the British countryside and embracing the activities associated with it – while being dressed well, of course. The heritage of Barbour is hugely important too. In the age of fast fashion and global trends, I love to support British brands that uphold the same values of timeless quality and style as myself.
Discover more of the Shirt Department SS20 collection here.
