Second home syndrome: what to pack for winter in the countryside

When November arrives, the long hot summer nights enjoyed at home or on holiday fade away from our memory. October is the transition phase, but as soon as the flurry of Christmas gifting emails roll in with bonfire night invitations, we're ready to plan for a British winter excursion or two - to relieve ourselves from the daily grind - at least for a short while. So whether you’re cavorting in the Cotswolds or seeking solace in the South Downs, finding a haven in Hampstead Heath or riding in Hyde Park, this is the country-ready attire you need to know about.

Photography by Gerardo Jaconelli; styling by Lauren Mcletchie.

Car Journey

We all know the best part about escaping to a country home is the garage space. Whether you’re getting back under the hood of a vintage Aston Martin DB5 or letting a Café Racer loose on the open road, take it up a notch with our driving gear edit. We can't get enough of Motoluxe's decadent Teddy coats too, originally designed to keep motorists warm when automobiles were open-top.

Churchill in a Teddy coat, (1954) Image courtesy of Mason & Sons.

Underneath wear a warm and lightweight wool vest from Connolly. Accessorize accordingly with a pair of exotic and elegant driving gloves from Parisan-based firm Maison Bédouin.

Maison Bédouin driving gloves

Arrival

You might not be as ‘on-show’ as you are in the city, but that’s no excuse to let standards slip. Leave your suited separates with your tailor for an MOT, and soften up your daily uniform with a super-supple suede bomber jacket from Manchester-based outerwear specialists Private White V.C. Scope to be styled a hundred different ways, pack soft-collared shirts and luxurious knitwear pieces.

Alexander Kraft Monte Carlo rollneck sweater air wool beige

Walk

From Hampstead Heath to Hyde Park, The Rake’s team have been making the most of London’s green spaces this year. The transition from desk to city to park means you need a multitasking wardrobe that won’t let you down, so layer up and loosen up – we’ve got you covered with versatile and cosy flannel trousers from Kit Blake and luxurious rollneck sweaters from MP Massimo Piombo. A pair of Urban Commando boots from Gaziano & Girling will ensure stability on your feet on the greasy footpaths.