Ben Fogle's Shopping Secrets: From Everest Snow to Vintage Jackets
Ever wondered what everyday items celebrities splurge on, where they source their groceries, or what basics they happily scrimp on? In an exclusive interview, renowned adventurer, broadcaster, and bestselling author Ben Fogle opens up about his personal shopping habits, offering a fascinating glimpse into his life beyond the extreme exploits.
A Passion for Vintage and Reclaimed Treasures
Fogle, who has climbed Everest and crossed Antarctica, reveals a softer side when it comes to shopping. His most recent treat was some vintage wood cladding from an old barn, purchased from English Salvage, a reclamation yard he frequents for salvage pieces to adorn his office walls. This love for history extends to his favourite bricks-and-mortar shop, Baileys in Wales, which he describes as "a dangerous shop to visit" due to its irresistible array of vintage and new decorative items. His greatest vintage find is an old shop counter from a French grocer, now proudly displayed in his home office, embodying the history he cherishes.
Personal Touches and Treasured Gifts
When it comes to gifts, Fogle shares heartfelt stories. He received a beautiful painting of his late labrador, Inca, from his wife Marina, created by artists Olly and Suzi and adorned with Inca's muddy paw prints—a treasured item. In return, he gave his children unique presents: little bottles filled with water from melted snow collected at the summit of Mount Everest, engraved with his ascent date. These personal touches highlight his sentimental approach to shopping, blending adventure with family memories.
Everyday Purchases and Regrets
For daily needs, Fogle's household relies on online grocery deliveries topped up with fresh produce from local sources like Bosley Patch farm shop in Henley. His gadget of choice is a portable espresso machine, the OutIn, for strong morning coffee, though he prefers an AeroPress or Bialetti moka maker at home. However, not all purchases are successful. He regrets a costly garden makeover at his first London flat, where a gardener transformed the space into what he calls "the Somme", ripping up grass and planting unappealing bushes.
Shopping Habits and Splurges
Fogle's shopping style is eclectic. He frequents online stores like Marrkt for secondhand outdoor jackets and has saved searches for rare Grenfell woodworks on eBay. His repeat purchase is Marvis toothpaste, a taste he's loyal to despite its higher cost. With £20, he'd buy a bottle of Portuguese vinho verde; with £200, a vintage jacket from Jojo's General Store in Sheffield. His biggest splurge is on antiques, particularly folk art and model boats, a passion inherited from his parents. Interestingly, he admits to not scrimping on anything, leaving household budgeting to his wife, whom he calls the world's best scrimper.
This interview showcases Ben Fogle's unique blend of adventure and homely comforts, revealing how his shopping choices reflect his values of conservation, storytelling, and living life to the fullest.
