SHOPPING: Leicester (including Patisserie Valerie)

So because Rose needed a battery in her watch, we ended up going into Leicester the weekend before Christmas. But we were smart and got there early, and it was okay. Nothing terribly exciting to write about except for two things:

First of all, we went to Tarretts on Market Street to see if they had any Tudor Clair de Rose. They didn't, indeed it seems no one in the United Kingdom does... but they were very helpful and professional (unlike Goldsmiths) and told us that if it's in stock elsewhere it can be sourced in 7-10 days, but if not then it takes 4-6 weeks from Switzerland. It's a pity these guys don't do TAG Heuer as they were exactly how a high end jeweller should be.

The other thing of note was that we finally purchased a couple of cakes from Patisserie Valerie. It was almost inevitable that they would be a disappointment and indeed they were. We bought the Mixed Berry Mousse and the Chocolate Mousse and found both wanting.

Disappointing.

The chocolate mousse itself was okay, if a little bland, but the sponge at the bottom was shite and I didn't even bother with it after the first mouthful. The berry mousse was insipid and reminded me of Ski strawberry yoghurt only with less flavour. The best bit was the raspberry on top. Such a shame, a) because they look so nice, and b) because they cost £2.95 each (which I would gladly pay if they tasted nice).

Also spotted the rare and valuable 'Hugo Boss' Rolex Daytona (£375) and a hilarious 'Ben di Lisi' watch in Debenhams with fake chrono dials for £30. I mean really, just kill yourself.