As many in Canada will attest, the taxes on pipe tobacco make it much more expensive here, (although, it seems to be on par with what I've seen in Europe. Not sure for Ireland or the UK). The legend here is Blatter & Blatter - a very small shop of pipe makers with quite a history, (since 1907). There are a few other shops around for tobacco. You can get UK tobaccos here - depends on availability. I picked up a tin of Squadron Leader at Blatter a while back, but it depends what comes in. There is another good tobacco shop as well -Pat et Robert, (yes - we are in a French speaking city!). Other options - Vasco Cigars & Cigare et compagnie. Like other Canadians, we do order online from the US - but there is always a chance of paying duty. Your friend can always message me in private for more information.