Imagine creating a scent that's uniquely yours—a personal fragrance that captures your style, memories, and personality. In a city as vibrant as London, the opportunity to step into the shoes of a perfumer has never been more accessible. Whether you're seeking a creative afternoon out, a truly memorable gift, or simply a new way to express yourself, designing your own fragrance is an unforgettable experience. This guide is your definitive resource to discover the finest workshops and ateliers where you can make your own fragrance in London.
We've curated a list of the city's premier perfume-making destinations, from beginner-friendly blending sessions to luxurious bespoke consultations. For each experience, we provide practical details on what to expect, pricing, duration, and ideal occasions, helping you select the perfect fit. You'll find direct links and essential booking information to streamline your planning. Beyond just the creative process, understanding how to care for your new creation is key; you can even discover insider tips on how to make your perfume last longer to ensure your signature scent endures. Let's explore the perfect place for you to blend, bottle, and take home a scent that is entirely your own.
1. Design Your Own Fragrance at The Perfume Studio – London
For those seeking a comprehensive, expertly guided, and truly personalised perfume-making experience in London, The Perfume Studio workshop stands out as a premier choice. Bookable through the experiential gifting platform Guess What I Did, this session is meticulously organised to blend creative discovery with a touch of luxury, making it an ideal activity for special occasions, a thoughtful gift, or simply a sophisticated day out. It offers a structured yet creative environment where participants can craft a signature scent from scratch with professional support every step of the way.
What sets this experience apart is its perfect balance of expert curation and individual creativity. Rather than overwhelming beginners with hundreds of raw ingredients, The Perfume Studio provides a carefully selected palette of 21 exquisite fragrance blends. These blends, categorised by scent families like floral, citrus, woody, and oriental, act as high-quality building blocks, ensuring that every combination results in a harmonious and wearable perfume. A trained perfumer guides you through the process, helping you identify your preferences and skillfully combine top, middle, and base notes into a balanced composition. This makes it one of the most accessible yet rewarding ways to make your own fragrance in London.
Key Features and The Workshop Experience
The journey begins with a glass of bubbly to set a relaxed and celebratory tone. The perfume consultant then introduces the core principles of fragrance architecture, explaining how different notes interact and evolve over time on the skin. You’ll have ample time to sample each of the 21 blends, noting your favourites and experimenting with different combinations on scent strips.
- Expert-Led Process: You are never left to guess. A consultant actively helps you refine your formula, offering advice on proportions and balance to ensure your final creation is exactly what you envisioned.
- Personalised Creation: The final product is a 20ml atomiser of your unique Eau de Parfum, which you get to name and bottle yourself. This tangible takeaway serves as a lasting reminder of the day.
- Formula Registration: One of the most significant advantages is that your unique scent formula is registered and saved. This allows you to reorder your signature fragrance in larger sizes directly from The Perfume Studio, turning a one-off experience into a personal luxury you can enjoy long-term.
This workshop is a fantastic option for a memorable day out and ranks highly among unusual gift experiences in London, offering a unique blend of creativity and indulgence.
Practical Information
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Central London (specific venue details provided upon booking) |
| Duration | Approximately 2 hours |
| What's Included | Glass of bubbly, expert consultation, all materials, and a 20ml custom-scented atomiser to take home |
| Booking | Easily booked online via Guess What I Did as a gift voucher or for a specific date |
Pros:
- Approachable for All: The curated blend system makes it easy for complete beginners to create a sophisticated scent.
- Social and Celebratory: The inclusion of bubbly and a relaxed group setting makes it perfect for hen parties, birthdays, or couples' activities.
- Lasting Value: The ability to reorder your scent transforms the experience from a simple workshop into the creation of a true signature fragrance.
Cons:
- Bottle Size: The 20ml atomiser is smaller than standard retail perfumes, though it is perfect for travel or a handbag.
- Location Specific: As a London-based workshop, it requires travel for those living outside the city.
Learn more and book your experience at The Perfume Studio via Guess What I Did.
2. Experimental Perfume Club
For those seeking a modern, lab-like experience to make your own fragrance in London, the Experimental Perfume Club (EPC) in Covent Garden offers a sophisticated and hands-on approach. This B-Corp certified, cruelty-free brand positions itself as an open-source perfumery, giving you direct access to high-quality ingredients and expert guidance in a chic, minimalist setting. Their core philosophy is about de-mystifying perfumery and empowering you to become the creator.
The experience feels less like a traditional class and more like a creative session in a perfumer's laboratory. You'll work with their exclusive "Essential" perfume blends, which act as building blocks, allowing you to layer top, middle, and base notes to construct a truly personal Eau de Parfum. The instructional staff are highly knowledgeable, guiding you through the fragrance families and helping you refine your formula.
What Makes It Stand Out?
The EPC's key differentiator is its seamless integration between the in-person workshop and at-home creation. Once you've designed your signature scent, EPC saves your unique formula. This allows you to easily re-order your personalised fragrance online anytime, with worldwide shipping available, ensuring you never have to be without your creation. This is a significant advantage over one-off experiences, turning your workshop creation into a lasting part of your personal style.
Key Offerings and Practical Details
| Experience/Product | Price | Duration/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Person Blending | £145 | 45 minutes | A focused, guided session for individuals or couples. |
| Luxe Blending | From £195 | 90 minutes | A private, in-depth experience ideal for special occasions. |
| At-Home Creation Set | £100 | N/A | DIY enthusiasts who prefer to blend at their own pace. |
| Re-ordering Formula | Varies | 50ml EDP | Anyone who loved their creation and wants a refill. |
Booking and Availability:
Due to small session sizes, popular slots, especially for the premium experiences, can book out in advance, so planning is recommended. Note that the shorter "Discovery" sessions are not available on weekends. Their sleek, user-friendly website makes booking straightforward, and gift vouchers are available, making it a popular choice for presents. You can often find their unique workshops featured among other unique and quirky things to do in London, highlighting its appeal for those seeking a memorable activity.
Website: https://experimentalperfumeclub.com
3. Floris London
For those seeking the pinnacle of heritage and luxury to make your own fragrance in London, Floris London offers an unparalleled bespoke service. Located at their historic 89 Jermyn Street boutique, this is not a casual workshop but a deep dive into the art of classical perfumery with one of Britain's oldest and most revered fragrance houses. Established in 1730, Floris provides a truly personal consultation, connecting you with centuries of olfactory expertise.
The experience is an intimate appointment with a dedicated in-house perfumer. You will explore a curated selection of rare and exquisite fragrance bases, guided by the perfumer to identify the notes and accords that resonate with your personal story and style. The process is meticulous and collaborative, resulting in a unique Eau de Parfum that is exclusively yours.
What Makes It Stand Out?
The sheer heritage and prestige of Floris set it apart. Your final formula is not just a personal creation; it becomes part of the brand's legacy. Each unique scent is hand-poured in their Jermyn Street store and recorded by hand in the same customer ledgers that hold the formulas for historical figures like Winston Churchill. This archival process means you can re-order your signature scent for a lifetime, making it a true personal heirloom.
Key Offerings and Practical Details
| Experience/Product | Price | Duration/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bespoke Customisation | £750 (for one) | 2 hours | A one-on-one session to create a unique scent. |
| Customisation for Two | £1,250 | 2 hours | An exclusive experience for couples or friends. |
| Full Perfume Design | £6,000 | Multiple Consultations | The ultimate in perfumery, creating a scent from scratch. |
| Formula Re-order | Varies | 100ml EDP | Replenishing your archived signature fragrance. |
Booking and Availability:
This is an exclusive, appointment-only service, so advance booking is essential, especially for the multi-consultation design experience. Given the high-end nature of the service, it is ideal for milestone celebrations, significant anniversaries, or as an ultimate luxury gift. Gift certificates are available and make for an exceptional present for any fragrance connoisseur.
Website: https://www.florislondon.com/pages/bespoke
4. The Perfume Studio
For those looking for an accessible and widely available entry point to make your own fragrance in London, The Perfume Studio offers a well-established experience. With a flagship studio in the capital and a presence across the UK, they have made perfume design a popular and approachable activity. Their model focuses on guiding participants through a curated selection of 21 fragrance blends, helping you discover your scent preferences and combine them into a harmonious perfume.
The experience is structured and guided, making it ideal for beginners or those who prefer a clear framework rather than a free-form lab session. You'll learn about different fragrance notes and how they interact before blending your favourites into a unique composition. A key part of their process is naming and registering your final blend, adding a personal touch and making it feel truly yours.
What Makes It Stand Out?
The Perfume Studio's main advantage is its exceptional value and accessibility. It's one of the most affordable guided perfume-making experiences in London, often available through curated platforms like Guess What I Did, making it a fantastic choice for a first-time taster session or a thoughtful present. The ability to have your unique fragrance formula named and registered means you can easily re-order your creation later, preserving the memory of the experience. Their nationwide presence also means you can often find their workshops beyond the capital.
Key Offerings and Practical Details
| Experience/Product | Price | Duration/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fragrance Design | From £49 | Approx. 90 mins | First-timers and gift experience day participants. |
| Private Consultation | From £675 | Varies | Couples or individuals seeking a premium, dedicated session. |
| At-Home Ultimate Set | Approx. £99 | N/A | Those who prefer a comprehensive DIY kit to use at home. |
| Formula Re-order | Varies | Varies | Returning customers wanting a refill of their registered scent. |
Booking and Availability:
Booking can be done directly or via trusted experience day platforms, which often provide excellent value. The London studio is located at 10–12 Bache’s St, N1 6DL. While the sessions are led by trained fragrance "stylists" rather than classically trained perfumers, they are skilled at guiding you through the blending process. Be mindful that shipping fees may apply for some product re-orders.
Website: https://theperfumestudio.com
5. Virgin Experience Days
For those looking for flexibility, variety, and the convenience of a gift-ready package, some experience day platforms serve as a marketplace for multiple providers that let you make your own fragrance in London. Instead of offering a single in-house workshop, these platforms aggregate different experiences, from natural perfumery sessions in Shoreditch to more classic blending workshops across the city. This can be a useful way to browse and compare various styles and price points in one place.
These platforms are often designed for gifting, offering instant e-vouchers with long validity periods, which is ideal for last-minute presents or when you want the recipient to choose their own date. You can also find experiences bundled with other activities like afternoon tea or cocktails, transforming a simple workshop into a full day out. The process involves purchasing a voucher and then contacting the specific provider to book a suitable date.
What Makes It Stand Out?
The primary advantage of these platforms is their flexibility and consumer-friendly voucher system. The long validity (typically 12 months) and free exchange policy remove the pressure of booking a specific date immediately. If the recipient decides a perfume workshop isn't for them, they can often swap it for another experience. This choice, combined with frequent promotions and the ability to find options from different small businesses, makes it a reliable and versatile choice for gift-givers.
Key Offerings and Practical Details
| Experience/Product | Price | Duration/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Perfume Workshop | From £55 pp | Varies by provider | Individuals seeking an eco-conscious, botanical approach. |
| Private Group Workshop | From £450 | Varies (e.g., up to 10) | Corporate events, hen parties, or special group outings. |
| Bundled Experiences | Varies | Varies | Turning the workshop into a full day out with dining or drinks. |
| E-Voucher Gifting | Varies | 12-month validity | Flexible and last-minute gift-giving. |
Booking and Availability:
Booking is a two-step process: you first purchase the voucher and then contact the third-party provider to schedule your session. Because the experiences are run by different companies, the quality, style, and availability can vary significantly, so it’s crucial to read the details of each specific listing carefully. These options are often highlighted among the best experience gifts in London for their sheer variety and user-friendly gifting options.
Website: https://www.virginexperiencedays.co.uk/perfume/london
6. Buyagift
For those seeking a straightforward and often budget-friendly way to make your own fragrance in London, gift experience platforms frequently feature perfume-making workshops. These sites act as resellers for experiences, most commonly from providers like The Perfume Studio, packaging them as convenient, giftable vouchers. This makes them an excellent port of call for last-minute presents or for those looking to snag a promotional deal on a popular creative activity.
The platform simplifies the purchasing process, allowing you to buy an experience voucher now and book a specific date later. You can browse different tiers of workshops, often labelled 'Gold' or 'Platinum', which typically vary in the range of fragrance notes available or the inclusion of extras like a glass of prosecco. The process is less about a specific venue's brand and more about the convenience of a pre-packaged, easily redeemable gift.
What Makes It Stand Out?
The primary advantage is the focus on value and convenience for gift-giving. Such sites almost always have discounts or special offers running, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to access a perfume design experience. The instant e-voucher delivery, long validity period (usually 12 months), and flexible exchange policy remove the pressure of committing to a date immediately, which is ideal for gifting. You are purchasing a flexible token for an experience rather than a fixed appointment.
Key Offerings and Practical Details
| Experience/Product | Price | Duration/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design Your Own Perfume | From £49.99 | 1-2 hours | Gift-givers and deal-seekers looking for a classic workshop. |
| Platinum Experience | From £69.99 | 1-2 hours | Those wanting a slightly more premium session with more options. |
| At-Home Blending Kit | From £39.99 | N/A | A DIY gift for someone to create their scent at home. |
| Couples' Experience | Varies | 1-2 hours | A shared activity for partners or friends, often with discounts. |
Booking and Availability:
After purchasing a voucher, you must follow the instructions to redeem it directly with the experience provider (e.g., The Perfume Studio). This means availability is determined by the provider's schedule, and popular weekend slots can fill up quickly. It is crucial to check the booking process and potential locations before you buy. The large volume of user reviews on these sites for each experience can also be a valuable tool for gauging quality and setting expectations.
Website: https://www.buyagift.co.uk
7. 4160Tuesdays
For the true fragrance enthusiast looking to go beyond a simple blending session, 4160Tuesdays offers an authentic deep dive into the craft. Run by independent artisan perfumer Sarah McCartney, this is where you go to make your own fragrance in London within the walls of a working studio. The experience is less of a polished high-street class and more of an immersive, hands-on apprenticeship, perfect for those who are genuinely curious about the art and science of perfumery.
Located in West London, these small-group workshops provide direct access to an extensive palette of modern, safe perfumery materials. You'll learn the fundamentals of fragrance structure and composition directly from a practising perfumer, gaining insights that are often reserved for industry insiders. The focus is on craft, creativity, and understanding the materials you're working with.
What Makes It Stand Out?
The key differentiator for 4160Tuesdays is its authenticity and educational depth. This isn't a simplified experience; it's a genuine introduction to the perfumer's craft. The small group sizes ensure you receive personal, hands-on attention and guidance. Furthermore, the brand supports continued learning through multi-day "schools," online courses, and materials kits, allowing you to continue your scent creation journey long after the workshop ends. Your formula can also be re-ordered, solidifying the link between the workshop and your personal scent identity.
Key Offerings and Practical Details
| Experience/Product | Price | Duration/Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Day Workshop | From £200 | Full Day | Aspiring perfumers and serious hobbyists seeking in-depth knowledge. |
| Multi-Day 'Schools' | Varies | 3-5 Days | Those wanting to take their skills to the next level. |
| Scenthusiasm Course | Varies | Online | At-home learners wanting a structured, guided curriculum. |
| Materials/Practice Kits | Varies | N/A | Graduates of the workshop who want to continue blending at home. |
Booking and Availability:
As a small, independent studio, workshop dates are limited and can book up months in advance, so forward planning is essential. The intimate nature of the workshops means capacity is small. Be aware that the studio is located upstairs, which may be a consideration for accessibility. Booking is handled directly through their website, which also provides a wealth of information for fragrance lovers.
Website: https://www.4160tuesdays.com
Top 7 DIY Fragrance Experiences in London
| Experience | Implementation / Complexity 🔄 | Resource Requirements (cost & time) ⚡ | Expected Outcome / Quality ⭐📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Design Your Own Fragrance at The Perfume Studio – London | Guided, hands‑on workshop (moderate complexity; beginner-friendly) 🔄 | Moderate time (session), travel to central London; includes 20ml atomiser ⚡ | High personalisation for a small keepsake; formula archived for reorders ⭐📊 | Celebrations, couples, experiential gifts | Expert facilitation; bespoke scent; repeatable reorders |
| Experimental Perfume Club | Instructional lab boutique with staged options (medium complexity; more technical guidance) 🔄 | Mid–high cost (from ~£145); 45–90 min or luxe private sessions; worldwide shipping ⚡ | Full‑size EDP or 50ml options for premium packages; strong quality control ⭐📊 | Visitors seeking a high‑quality in‑store experience or international buyers | Reorder path; B‑Corp/cruelty‑free stance; skilled staff |
| Floris London | High complexity bespoke service (in‑house perfumer; multi‑consultation possible) 🔄 | High cost (from £750; bespoke packages to £6,000); multi‑hour or multi‑session commitment ⚡ | Extremely high‑end, archival bespoke formulas and luxury finish ⭐📊 | Milestone gifts, luxury bespoke commissions | Heritage house; dedicated perfumer; formula archiving; premium presentation |
| The Perfume Studio | Accessible workshop model (low–medium complexity; variable depth depending on facilitator) 🔄 | Low–moderate cost (from ~£49 for workshops); nationwide dates and at‑home kits ⚡ | Good entry‑level bespoke blends; registered formula for follow‑ups ⭐📊 | First‑time participants, group activities, voucher gifts | Value options; wide availability; named/registered blends |
| Virgin Experience Days | Marketplace booking (low complexity to purchase; variable delivery complexity to redeem) 🔄 | Wide price range; instant e‑vouchers; must schedule with provider; flexible validity ⚡ | Outcome varies by selected provider—quality dependent on underlying experience 📊 | Last‑minute gifts, corporate vouchers, bundled experiences | Instant vouchers; broad provider choice; frequent promotions |
| Buyagift | Voucher platform (low complexity to buy; redemption depends on provider) 🔄 | Often discounted prices; instant e‑vouchers; limited date availability at peak times ⚡ | Result depends on the underlying supplier (often The Perfume Studio) 📊 | Deal seekers, last‑minute presents, budget gifts | Frequent discounts; large review base; easy e‑voucher delivery |
| 4160Tuesdays | Craft‑focused workshops and courses (medium–high complexity; deep technical teaching) 🔄 | Higher cost for full workshops (~£200) or multi‑day courses; limited dates ⚡ | Strong craft learning outcomes; skilled indie perfumer guidance; formula support ⭐📊 | Enthusiasts, aspiring perfumers, learners seeking depth | Small groups; deep instruction; continued learning/community support |
Your Journey to a Signature Scent Starts Here
London's vibrant landscape offers an extraordinary array of opportunities to step into the world of a perfumer. From the historic ateliers of St James's to the modern, experimental labs in creative hubs, the journey to make your own fragrance in London is as diverse and unique as the scent you will ultimately create. We've explored a curated selection of experiences, each offering a distinct path to bottling your personal story, memories, and aspirations.
The key takeaway is that fragrance creation is no longer an exclusive art form reserved for master "noses". It is an accessible, engaging, and deeply personal activity perfect for anyone with a curious spirit. Whether you are seeking a light-hearted afternoon with friends, a truly memorable date, or a sophisticated hen party activity, there is a workshop perfectly tailored to your needs. The experiences we have detailed, such as the comprehensive Design Your Own Fragrance workshop, provide a structured yet creative environment to explore the building blocks of scent.
Choosing Your Olfactory Adventure
Selecting the right experience comes down to a few key considerations. To help you decide, ask yourself the following questions:
- Who is this for? Are you planning a solo deep dive into perfumery, a romantic outing for two, or a fun group event? Experiences like the one offered via Guess What I Did are fantastic for gifting and small groups, providing a complete and beautifully presented package.
- What is my goal? Do you simply want to have fun and leave with a lovely, wearable fragrance, or are you hoping to gain a deeper technical understanding of scent composition and raw materials? An introductory workshop will focus on the former, while a more intensive masterclass will satisfy the latter.
- How much time do I have? Workshops can range from a swift 90-minute session to a half-day immersive course. Consider your schedule and desired level of engagement when making your choice.
Once you have clarity on these points, you can confidently book the experience that aligns with your vision. Remember, the ultimate goal is not just the perfume itself, but the memorable process of its creation. The scent you design will forever be a tangible reminder of a unique day spent exploring your own creativity in the heart of London.
While our guide focuses on guided workshops, the world of scent is vast. For those whose curiosity has been sparked and wish to continue their journey at home, you can explore various DIY recipes for home crafting to further develop your skills. This can be a wonderful way to experiment with essential oils and scent combinations between professional workshops.
Your signature scent is out there, waiting to be composed. It’s a liquid expression of your individuality, a personal emblem that announces you to the world without a single word. The tools, guidance, and expertise are all available right here in London. All that's left is for you to take that first, fragrant step.
Ready to craft your unique scent story? Guess What I Did curates unforgettable experiences, including premier workshops to make your own fragrance in London, making it the perfect destination for finding and gifting a day you'll always remember. Explore our handpicked activities and book your creative journey today at Guess What I Did.