My London: Sam McKnight
The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Where is home?
North-west London. I’ve lived in that area for nearly 20 years — it’s my hood. I love the wide streets, the quietness. It feels like I’m in the country.
First thing you do when you get back to London?
Make a cup of tea (I’m a Decaf PG Tips man, no sugar) and go out into the garden. I’m a very keen gardener when I have time, and have hundreds of dahlias and a huge fruit and vegetable patch.
Most memorable meal?
I’m not a big restaurant-goer but I love a good bacon sandwich (no sauce, butter on white toast) at the Worker’s Cafe on Upper Street. There used to be so many amazing traditional cafés in London but sadly they’re all disappearing.
Favourite club?
Tramp. I had my birthday party there last year. People were swinging from the chandeliers. Kate Moss DJed and sang ‘Happy Birthday’.
What are you up to now?
I’m gearing up for the launch of Hair By Sam McKnight, my signature haircare and styling range. I’m launching with four styling sprays that give women modern, cool-girl hair.
If you could buy any building in London which would it be?
The old County Hall by Westminster Bridge. It has
the best terrace in London and the most amazing sunsets. Then, for a better view, I’d knock down the London Eye and move it somewhere else.
Last album you bought?
It was a Julie London compilation. I’ll listen to it in Ibiza by the pool.
Ever had a run-in with a policeman?
My car got stolen last year outside my front door. The police in Kilburn were amazing and the police at Tilbury docks found it a week later in a container destined for the Congo.
Who do you call for fun?
Kate knows where all the best parties are. I have her on speed dial.
Favourite shops?
Church Street Market for fruit and veg and Alfies Antiques. I love its 1930s ceramic jugs. Oh, and Fred Perry in Seven Dials for T-shirts and Brent jackets — my uniform.
Where do you go to let your hair down?
Sadly I have no hair to let down, but I have a studio in west London full of wigs where I go to get my hair on, as you can see on Instagram (@sammcknight1).
Who is your hero?
Read More
I was fortunate to spend seven years with Princess Diana. She took me to Mother Teresa’s hospice in Calcutta and a limb-fitting hospital on the Afghan border. It was really harrowing, but Diana was a natural carer and not fazed by it at all.
What would you do as Mayor for the day?
I’d stop giving permission for all those high-rises ruining the skyline. Move them to Canary Wharf where they belong! And I would do something about the cycle lanes — the city traffic doesn’t flow properly.
Hair By Sam McKnight launches at Liberty in June (libertylondon.com)
