Old Fashion Writing Instruement .............. The Fountain Pen.

I am returning to using a fountain pen in 2011, I have decided to take this course of action for two reasons, firstly I own a Waterman Fountain Pen (Lewis Waterman patented the first practical fountain pen in 1884) and secondly because it just seems a crime to leave such a lovely writing instruments laying idle.

I have a tendency to write in either Violet (as you can tell) or South Sea Blue and buy my ink from Penfriends Burlington Arcade London, when I go to visit family in Essex it is one of the places I try to find time to enjoy, an amazing shopping experience, a true step back in time

Burlington Arcade was Britain’s very first shopping Arcade, opened in 1819 to great acclaim and now recognised as an historic and architectural masterpiece. The longest covered shopping street in England and possibly the most beautiful, this oasis of calm is one of London’s hidden treasures packed with luxurious accessories – renowned throughout the world for its individuality and craftsmanship.

The Arcade epitomises impeccable service, specialist knowledge and elegant surroundings. From the classic to the contemporary, a huge variety of the finest goods are on offer whether searching for a gift, treating yourself or simply window shopping - softest cashmere to sparkling antiques, vintage watches, connoisseur writing materials, fine fragrance and top quality leather goods. Shop with the world’s most feted celebrities in the Burlington Arcade, a welcome retreat from the swirling bustle and noise of London’s streets.