James Smith & Sons

It is “the place to buy an umbrella” in London, or so I am told. It was a neat little shop. Surprisingly small. I enjoyed browsing and seeing their hand crafted handles and umbrellas. I actually needed an umbrella and purchased one of their more modest models that didn’t cost me £400. The gentleman working was either the most posh man I have ever met or puts on his acting hat every morning. Truly nice fellow with good knowledge and high service.

This was a one of a kind experience. With custom umbrellas being made on site, the business has been since 1830! The store itself is smaller. We were waited on like royalty! It was great!

While walking in London , I surprised by this shop .. it’s a well known family business in sticks and umbrellas… must to visit once a life … they are at this business since 1830 !

If you are ever in this part of London, make sure to pop in to James Smith & Sons. So much history, the friendliest staff and absolute gorgeous stock. All price ranges catered for, but you really want to have a good look at the exclusive items just to admire their artistry.

Incredible umbrella shopping! You get to custom your umbrella to your liking from the length, to the colour, the type of handle, tips…. Amazing! The owners are super knowledgeable, patient, very cheerful and friendly! They patiently answered all my questions, shows us what they have and explained to me what I never knew about selecting and buying an umbrella. ☂️🌂☔️ Even though I didn’t buy one of those English, smithy brolly, I selected one that truly suit my life style. Really grateful for the time spend there. So even if you are not buying, go in look around and check out one of the oldest umbrella makers in London! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

Best place in London to find walking sticks! Incredibly nice staff and very friendly service❤️ Highly recommend!

A wonderful and memorable shopping experience! We were looking to prepare a special gift for our friend's birthday. The staff were incredibly kind and went above and beyond to assist us, providing thoughtful and attentive service throughout. They helped us create a delightful surprise by adding beautiful packaging and even informed us about their follow-up services. The items we purchased are absolutely stunning, and we couldn't be happier with them. It was such a pleasure working with such caring and dedicated people. Thank you so much!

Timeless Elegance: my review of James Smith & Sons Umbrellas For years and years I’ve walked, driven past this amazing piece of British history, it just oozes class even from the outside, today I decided to finally walk into this beautiful shop and honestly the staff are first class, I really enjoyed spending my money in this place, old fashioned service even from young staff, from the moment I walked in, to the moment I left. Sadly I didn’t buy one of the classic Umbrellas but I bought a lovely automatic one to fit my rucksack. The young man that served me was amazing, you can see him in the photographs, he took his time to explain how to fold the Umbrella to store it and gave me many options, he showed me how to let it dry, I know it sounds silly but it just felt great. We work hard for our money and when you take pleasure in actually spending it is a nice feeling. I later spoke to another gentleman I think he might be one of the owners, he was great to talk to with a wealth of information. They also have a workshop downstairs where they make and repair “wow” fantastic to find a place like this still in existence in the centre of London. James Smith & Sons umbrellas embody the epitome of timeless elegance and superior craftsmanship. From the moment you lay eyes on one of their exquisite creations, you're captivated by the meticulous attention to detail and the heritage that permeates every stitch. Crafted in London since 1830, James Smith & Sons has established itself as a beacon of quality in the world of umbrellas. Each umbrella is a testament to centuries-old techniques passed down through generations, combined with modern innovations to ensure durability and functionality. One of the most striking features of James Smith & Sons umbrellas is their diverse range of styles, catering to every taste and occasion. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of a traditional black umbrella or the sophistication of a bespoke handle crafted from rare woods or fine metals, there's a design to suit every discerning individual. The quality of materials used in James Smith & Sons umbrellas is second to none. From the robust canopy fabric that withstands the elements with ease to the sturdy frame that offers unparalleled stability in windy conditions, every component is carefully selected to ensure longevity and performance. Beyond their functional prowess, James Smith & Sons umbrellas exude an air of refinement and prestige. Carrying one of these masterpieces is not just a shield from the rain; it's a statement of sophistication and an appreciation for the finer things in life. While James Smith & Sons umbrellas may come at a premium price, they are undoubtedly an investment worth making. With proper care, these umbrellas can last a lifetime, becoming cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. In conclusion, James Smith & Sons umbrellas are more than just accessories; they are symbols of elegance, craftsmanship, and enduring quality. If you're looking to elevate your rainy day attire and make a timeless statement, look no further than James Smith & Sons. Nearest underground station is Tottenham Court Road, busses 98, 55, and many more. If you get the time you can walk over to Museum street across the road for a coffee in the Camera museum or if you can bare the crowds pop into the British museum and make a full day out of it

Great and friendly service and a fantastic selection of unique and well made umbrellas. This is a must go to shop for umbrellas.

Came to London with the purpose of buying a folding cane at this specific store after reading about its history and quality products of canes and umbrellas. Arrived earlier than its opening hours of 10:30 and they allowed us in. I already had in mind what to buy and I just needed a few questions answered. The young guy who assisted me was very helpful. Super glad that the plaid design I wanted was available. It looked more beautiful in person. He made sure that all my needs were met. Though I wanted to buy a folding umbrella, I didn't only because I might not have enough room for my carry-on luggage. The designs look unique and pretty. The folding umbrellas may have less than 8 ribs so unsure if it'll be sturdy enough to resist wind. More selections at the store than in their website. They do ship abroad.

We went looking for a tassel for my husband's walking stick, like the one in George Washington's statue, and found a corded wrist strap. Fascinating shop!

What is the one thing you always need on a trip to London? (Other than your own stash of vegetables) An umbrella. And if you want the best, you need to come to this famous institution. They have almost endless patterns and styles and some of the best built, highest quality umbrellas around. When Rihanna wrote her song, she was probably thinking about this place. If the quality isn't enough, the sales experience is as good as the wares. Still set up in traditional Victorian fashion, the staff is top notch and the service unmatched. It's an environment you actually want to shop in. Additionally, you'll never realize how many different things one can consider while buying an umbrella until you shop here under the tutelage of their masters. You'll have a hard time leaving with only one!

LOVED this place. The associates there were so nice and lovely to talk to. I ended up buying a birdcage umbrella for 20 pounds. And I LOVE it. I just bought it today so I'm hoping it's great quality and lasts forever! Either way, it's so stinking cute. I can't wait to use it!!!

Ok so I didn't buy an umbrella myself, I wasn't in the market for one but I knew I wanted to visit this place the minute I saw it online. My friend and I made our way over from a different part of town and were so excited to see all the beautiful umbrellas. She ended up purchasing the perfect red London umbrella. The gentleman who helped her was so knowledgable and gave great tips on how to keep the umbrella in the best condition. They are serious here and it shows by the great craftsmanship!

At a time when the high streets are turning into chain-dominated clones of one another, coming across this shop is such a refreshing experience that it made me want to shout for joy. I wasn't looking for an umbrella but happened to spot it while walking to Tottenham Court Road. The words 'Established 1830' were enough to draw me in and wow! You can't help but gawp at the array and craftsmanship of the umbrellas, canes, maces and swordsticks. They do carry a range of differently priced products from the everyday use umbrella to the ceremonial 'swagger stick'. You can almost picture Victorian gents with some of the more elaborate umbrellas Fascinating place

I love this store. I love old specialty shops. The salespeople are true professionals. My wife bought me a beautiful umbrella with a wooden parrot knob, and we got some birdcage umbrellas for our nieces. I wondered out loud if I would have issues at the airport, and a salesman leaned in, and asked where I lived. I said New Jersey, and he packed them up and shipped them for the price of the VAT. So no cost. My umbrella came in 3 days. I love my umbrella, and the shopping experience in the store was a 10/10.

James Smith & Sons is THE umbrella, stick and whip manufacturers in London. Coming here is a step back in time to an era when dandies and flaneurs roamed the streets. It's been going for over 175 years and the Victorian interior looks like it may well be the original. The vast array of beautiful hand made pieces available here are for people who like to enjoy the finer things and life are willing to pay for them. Prices range anywhere from £25 to well over £150 (some umbrellas are even over £200). Although I like to browse and watch the old man sat stitching umbrella canvases together I've never actually bought anything. I'd probably only leave it on the tube the next day, but for the experience I definitely suggest coming to take a look at the beautiful ladies parasols, finely carved wooden handles and polished old fashioned mens canes. But, if you need really do need a little something to go with the suit you just had made on Savile Row, here's the perfect place to find it.

A massive selection of umbrellas and canes!!!!! A short 10 min walk from Covent Gardens. All types and prices!! They were very helpful, quick to trim the cane to length, helpful with claiming the VAT back. I would recommend this store to anyone.

Having walked in front of this shop many times, I finally caved into my curiosity and stepped into a world that belongs to 150 years ago. James Smith & Sons is a specialist umbrella, cane and whip shop that is reminiscent of the 1800's. It has a huge selection of beautifully hand-crafted wooden umbrellas. If you close your eyes and get a whiff of imagination you might even be able to picture a young Charles Dickens or Lewis Carroll strolling out of the store with a fancy duck-headed black umbrella. The collections are stunning and everybody loves a good old, successful family business. I have never bought anything here, probably due to the fact that I am a serial brolly-loser and the prices are over my budget, but I believe this place is worthy of a look and could provide a friendly grandfather with the perfect gift.

Expert service and excellent advice in the field of umbrellas. Still a solution for every budget. As they do repairs, this company will stand by your side throughout the course of your life and under all weather conditions. If you like to buy umbrellas in a way you would buy magic wands at Garrick Ollivanders this is the store of your choice.

James Smith and Sons is an umbrella and walking stick wonderland! I visited the shop in search of a new umbrella and was amazed by the selection. As the name suggests, this family owned business is reminiscent of the days of old when ladies and gentlemen use to take daily strolls in the park. Be sure to checkout the animal head handle umbrellas for ladies, along with the rams and stag horn crooks. Even if you are not yet in the market for a walking stick or you've just bought a new umbrella, it's worth a look. Chances are you've never seen such an elaborate selection in your life!

I have bought five umbrellas from James Smith's over the past four years. The first one was their own brand and after that were mostly from Knirps. I think this shop is one of the very few retailers that stock Knirps umbrellas. I sometimes find the retail staff at James Smith & Sons quite abrupt or taciturn in their manner.

You need to check this place out, even if you don't plan on purchasing anything. There are hundreds of beautiful umbrellas and canes to choose from. I ended up with a beautiful, polished malacca wood full size umbrella. I opted for the sterling silver band because it dresses up the piece that much more. They measured it so that it would fit me as well; the staff if friendly and helpful. I will probably end up buying another one from them on my next visit to London.

Walk in the door & you step into another century (see my picture) A time of hats & spats & politesse. Where Oscar with his bon mots eloquence & Gilbert & Sullivan's music hall entertainment held sway. Fantabulous shop with the classiest brollies & sticks ever seen outside Piccadilly! I love the staff

If you need an umbrella, go here! Really it's that simple. You would be hard-pressed to find a larger selection of umbrellas and walking canes anywhere in London (and perhaps anywhere in the UK or quite frankly anywhere in the world). The James Smith & Sons shop is a gem of a store, cramming in nearly 200 years of umbrella making into one small shop near Oxford Street. The sales staff are extremely helpful and explained to me the difference between several models. Apparently there is more to the cost than the type of wood in the handle and the size of the umbrella. Who knew, really. This is not the place to go for a cheap 5 pound model, prices start in the 20s and can easily eclipse 100 pounds if you get a duck shaped handle made from exotic wood or a vintage model. I of course purchased a fine gentleman's umbrella, custom made by James Smith & Sons. When rolled up it is quite slim yet when open it is large and sturdy enough to keep me dry on those all too many rainy days. It has a few unique features such as a custom button and gold ring that keeps the umbrella tightly wrapped and looking quite gentleman-y.

In America it is impossible to find a good umbrella. After watching yet another $5 plastic umbrella shred itself to pieces in a storm, I decided to do something about it. I decided that the combination of English common sense, utilitarian design and plenty of rain should offer the optimal combination to produce a good umbrella. A subsequent Internet search led to James Smith & Sons. My desire for said brolly culminated in a stop-over in London on the way home from a data center installation. Of course, I did plenty of other things while I was in London, including almost purchasing an autographed 2nd edition of "The Hobbit", but the umbrella was what started it all. I arrived at the store in the middle of a downpour and was amazed at the number of people who came into the shop to buy an umbrella. The shop is a step into the past, and is a history lesson all by itself. They offer a vast range of umbrellas, from small to extra large, cheap to breathtakingly expensive, and they come with a guarantee of quality. I was able to chat with a lady restitching a faulty rib on an umbrella and learned quite a bit about their care, construction and design. For fun, I got to try out a hotel doorman's custom umbrella with additional ribs and width. You could go parachuting with the thing. My umbrella (with wooden mallard head handle) is home in the US now, having run the gauntlet of repeated airport security inspections, scans and questions (its box was the exact dimension of a rifle). It shows no sign of wear or loosening of the stitches. Should anything happen to it, I was assured that I could bring it back to the shop for repair, a promise that I intend to make good on.

If you need an umbrella, go here. Totally great to be helped to find a hand made British brolly sold to you by men who have sold umbrellas for their entire lives (or at least it seems like they have done this their entire lives). Not all of us can afford to get a hand-made Aston-Martin, or a personally tailored suit...but maybe we can treat ourselves to the best umbrella ever from a real British maker...

I bought a small umbrella here that I used for a number of years, but the institution that is James Smith & Sons doesn't only sell umbrellas. I picked up a few beautiful black wood boxes that made perfect gifts for friends back home. The staff is wonderful and they don't frown on browsing. It's quite near the British Museum and worth a visit even if you aren't in the market for an umbrella.

I'm not a great fan of umbrellas- they always seems to get in the way when yoare trying to rush ahead on a narrow pavement. Or the wind seems to turn them inside out making them useless as a rain protector. Or you get stabbed in the eye/ arm/ shoulder by someone juggling theor umbrella nad talking on their mobile (yes, that has happened to me!) Despite my dislike of umbrellas- the British weather means that I always have a small tucked away in my bag. James Smith & Sons is a London landmark that I have often walked past but never been inside. My cousin visited last month and said he wanted to go to London's #oldest umbrella shop' as he'd heard about the huge collection. I though it was a bit of an odd request but two days later we popped in. With huge shopping centres and department stores London has a decreasing number of specialist shops. It was like stepping back into time as we pushed past the front door of this umbrella mecca. There's everything from the city gent's black umbrella to quirky chidren's umbrellas and alsoa range of walking sticks and canes. Even if you don't buy anything it's a great place to browse.

Yes, they are the umbrella shop of central London, but while resting of their history and craft they forgot to adapt to today's shopping experience. I was not greeted by a rude, actually a VERY rude with attitude customer service sales associate and just walked out after 5 minutes. Old inventory is nice but the younger shopper requires classy and modern with helpful service (Smith&Sons haven't realized their clientele from the mid 1800's are 6' under). Browse the window like a museum and shop else where.

I bought a cane here and they shipped it to the United States for me. The cane is beautiful and extremely well constructed.

I do not think I have given anyplace five stars before, but this place deserves it. A store dedicated to umbrellas; who knew? I am an avid outdoorsman, and I use my umbrella all the time. Whether it is raining or blazing hot, an umbrella is a great thing to keep handy. I am used to catching grief for my umbrella, especially when it is sunny, but that is because I am a Scoutmaster and work with people of that certain age who love to hoot and howl about some old geezer standing in the sun under an umbrella. But... after standing in line outside at the dining hall for about 15 minutes in 90 degree plus, and 90% humidity, I get MANY offers to hold my umbrella from the same guys who thought it was oh so funny-looking just a few minutes before. Anyway - this store is everything umbrellas, but they also have great hand-carved walking sticks as well. And as I understand it, at one point they sold sword-sticks too. Now my U.K. friend tells me that they were illegal to have on the street, but they were not illegal to sell. So, they would sell you one, and then it was your problem to figure out how to get it home. They no longer sell sword-sticks, sadly, but they sell everything else umbrella-related. They are pricy, but hey - they are on High Street in London - duh. I bought a Knirps - which is an German automatic umbrella. Push the button on the handle and the umbrella deploys - ho hum you say, and I would agree. But... push the button again, and it folds up. How about that sports fans? Oh - and one more thing. They say their umbrellas are really tough. Their sales slogan was, "you kan't knacker a Knirps". My friend bought one, and after a few years of faithful service it did break. He took it back to James Smith & Sons and told them, "My Knirps is knackered". To which the spry sales person replied, "Well let's get you a knother". Knother - get it - rimes with Knirps... Haha. (Cricket - cricket). Okay - I'm done now.

This Umbrella shop has been open since 1830 and is still family run. Nifty. It's great, like you're settig into the world of My Fair Lady, couldn't help but stop and go in when I walked past. Apart from umbrellas, you can buy walking sticks, seatsticks, wristloops, etc. So basically, if you already have an umbrella and don't need a fancy walking stick, then there's not a lot here for you. But that's ok, just ace to look around...

A London landmark "the umbrella shop. You know THE umbrella shop", as there's surely only one, which makes it an excellent place to meet or great direction post. It also sells some really beautiful custom made umbrellas with all sorts of weird and wonderful handles, think Mary Poppins. I also bought a really cool children's umbrella here once, fluorescent pink with flashing lights on the end of each of the spokes. I couldn't fit it in my handbag so I lost it pretty quickly but it was a joy when it was still in my possession. They also sell the sturdiest make of compact umbrella if you want something practical and a bit less fancy. Most of all though, this type of specialist shop is a historical rarity that you should visit in case it goes.

Brolly heaven! They have everything from walking sticks to collapsing umbrellas. Even better, you can buy a custom umbrella here measured to order. The staff could not be more friendly and helpful! Really great shop and lots of fun largely because the staff was so warm and knowledgeable! My wife and I left with two wonderful umbrellas after a careful discussion with the staff about their pro's and con's! Can't say enough good things about their staff!

This store was quite charming. It has been open and family-run since 1820, and the umbrellas are very nice. For a typical English umbrella, the prices range from about 60 to 200+ pounds. They also have some unique handles of animal heads. There was one in particular that I really liked; it was a duck's head, which was reminiscent of a Burberry umbrella ($1000+). They also carry modern retractable umbrellas, which are some other brand and cheaper, and walking sticks. If you have a lady friend, I highly recommend one of their women's umbrellas. They are absolutely elegant and gorgeous. I ended up buying two to take back with me to the States for gifts. I would have bought one for myself as well if they didn't cost so much, but I already have two umbrellas! If you're anywhere near central in London, I highly recommend this shop. It's not a far walk from the Westminster Underground stop.

I heard about the store (Brene Brown mentioned it in her book Dare to Lead) and had to see it for myself. The store was lovely, it's like stepping back in time. Their staff knew about the products they made and sold. I broke down and bought a James Smith and Sons made umbrella that I'll treasure for a long time. The staff knew each material that went into making the umbrella. My husband sat and watched staff interact with customers and explained length of walking sticks. They'd measure and cut it to the right length for you! We had a blast.

What an absolute treat as an American to walk into an umbrella and walking stick "store". History, knowledge, an overwhelming selection and a staff worth their weight in gold! Our helped Jason was a delight. He patiently walked us through countless options before we could decide! Our purchases will be cherished for many years and the walking stick will no doubt be pasted on to the next generation it is so special. HIGHLY recommended when in London for an experience back in time with the loveliest of staff to help you. PS prices range from very reasonable to very expensive so its really up to your needs, tastes and budget. Enjoy!

Unbelievably horrible service! Came in with full intention of buying an umbrella, having researched online. But the employee I spoke to was insulting, superior and rude - he told me I wasn't "ready" for a high quality umbrella and advised me to buy a cheap mini one. I don't know what about me made him talk to me like this but I've never experienced service like it - completely flabbergasted. The umbrellas are lovely but don't go in store unless you'd like to be insulted.

This is the most gorgeous shop for umbrellas; they have an amazing range of high quality brollies, but also canes and walking sticks. Beautiful Victorian shop, I think it has been around since the middle of the last century. Well worth a visit.

If you imagine a Victoria shoppe in your head, this is what it will look like. It's old, dark, and wonderfully cluttered with umbrellas and walking sticks. Stand outside and soak it in for a while, first: the exterior looks great. If you want to take your umbrella more seriously than a £4.99 plastic one from a petrol station, come here. You can get as cheap or expensive as you like. I went here when I first arrived in the UK in 2001 and bought a lovely wood-handled full-sized umbrella. I paid something like £70 for it. But I still have it today, it's still solid, and it still works great. There are hundreds of carved walking sticks, too. If you know someone who has that particular affectation this would be a great place to find a gift for them.

I was looking for an original and lovely umbrella in London. I discovered James Smith & Sons through the internet and felt quite confident with the nice reviews. The shop is very nice, old fashion, with varied and exciting choices of umbrellas. A very nice atmosphere! At first, I wanted to test the store and therefore decided to start by one of their cheaper model, which costs £20.... . For me, if I was happy with it, I would invest more and buy a more expensive one. I love umbrellas and do like to have one fitting with each outfit. I had a look in the store and was already thinking of one.... The person who sold me the umbrella told me that this umbrella was a good quality and I would not be disappointed. He told me that if any issues occurred then I should bring it in for repair. This was exactly what I wanted to hear. Unfortunately, my umbrella broke after a week. I used it only once actually. I came back to the store to get it repaired or for an exchange. I didn't really mind. But the manager told me that was impossible that this was due to a problem of manufacturing - implying then I was lying to him about what happened. Moreover, he affirmed me that the person who sold it to me would have noticed this problem at the time he sold it to me. He never thought that the seller might missed this problem when he sold it to me! I think this kind of behaviour is totally unprofessional, and don't like at all a person telling me that I am lying. I am not a child and I am able to take responsibilities of my actions, and this umbrella broke not because of me!!! To summarise, as most of the stores, this one is perfect because indeed -compared to the other stores in London, here you do have a lot of choices and very nice umbrellas, but wish you don't have any problem with it. They will not help you at all and find a way to avoid their own responsibility. That is why I would rate cautionary this store 2/5, not more.

I thought I'd stumbled through a time portal when I entered James Smith & Sons. It's an amazing shop. One of the clerks enlightened me to the fact that a sheleighly is a weapon, not a walking stick. Who knew?

It's funny how in the UK despite all the rain, most people are happy to spend £200 on a pair of sunglasses but make do with a rubbish £5 umbrella from the newsagent! If like me, however, you appreciate the engineering that goes into a good quality umbrella, this is the place for you. It's a great store if you're looking for an umbrella or walking stick. Full of character with very friendly staff, and of course the best collection of umbrellas in London!

Love, love, love this store. When I'm passing through this part of Bloomsbury I can think of nothing better than looking in the windows or having a browse to kill time. Now, I haven't actually bought anything here, mind. I'm still not of the notion that it's not wasteful to spend more than £9.99 on a brolly, In fact, I tend to have a more fluid approach to the ownership of said items - easy come, easy go. BUT that doesn't stop me from coveting the wooden-handled dainty, printed with Monet masterpieces varieties they stock here. I also dig looking at the walking sticks with turned handles, silver tips, engravings etc. I long to hang around one day in there waiting for a man to come in and buy one of these walking sticks. Then I would finally know what kind of man does. Anyway, they seem to have a really big range from reasonabla to high-end - and even though I'm nearly fainting with the notion that Tim paid £70 for that brolly, yes - he still has it and it's lovely.

I purchased an umbrella from James Smith & Sons 20+ years ago. Several pin holes developed in the canopy along with scratches and indentations in the handle. I shipped my umbrella with a letter of instruction outlining my repair needs (canopy and handle). In addition, I asked for a Letter of Replacement Value be provided on company letterhead for insurance purposes. I received an email confirming receipt of the umbrella, repair costs, and approximate timeline. I replied with my approval for the repairs, reiterated the damaged handle, and my request for the replacement value letter. After a few weeks I was informed (by email) the umbrella was ready and provided payment information. I received the umbrella (by mail) and found the canopy replaced, a replacement value hand scribbled on a 3"x5" store receipt, and handle still in disrepair. I sent an email outlining my dissatisfaction with the so called Replacement Value Letter and the still damaged handle. After waiting almost a week without receiving a response, I wrote a letter and mailed it directly to James Smith & Sons (attention manager). Finally, after another couple weeks I received an email confirming receipt of my letter. I responded to the email repeating my dissatisfaction's. After waiting another week without further communication from James Smith & Sons, I sent a follow-up email. I finally received a response with a new store receipt outlining the replacement value (typed instead of hand written). Although the replacement value is still on a 3"x5" store receipt, not letterhead stationary, it is better than what was originally provided. The handle is still damaged with no responsibility or effort by James Smith & Sons to resolve or remedy the still needed repair. I am sure James Smith & Sons was at one time a reputable company. Customer satisfaction seems to no longer be an area of importance (unless you are a local) for their customers. Buyer beware if you are a foreigner. I assume James Smith & Sons views foreigners as non-repeat customers and doesn't need to treat us to the level of expectation that they repute to offer.

Picture it: pouring rain in London and no umbrella. We stopped and and 2 dapper gents showed us around and suggested a few umbrellas. We settled on a £22 Cath Kidston for our daughter. Pricey, but the staff are very congenial and knowledgeable.

I visited the store in August 2016, and purchased 3 umbrellas. One was a wooden shaft umbrella for 320 pounds, another was a city umbrella for 225 pounds, and the third was a Knirps folding umbrella which seemed very handy. The merchandise was beautiful, and the shop was all I expected. I found the staff helpful and informative. My only disappointment is that the beautiful umbrellas I purchased don't carry any label identifying them as James Smith and Sons merchandise.

Great place to get a souvenir from London. It is really hard to find an original and unique store while traveling. This store is both. For those traveling to London I suggest visiting this store for a cool experience and a great souvenir to take back home. If I ever go back to London, I will definitely get another james smith and sons umbrella.

The selection of umbrellas is excitingly varied, and the traditional decour and politeness (depending on staff) certainly creates an inviting atmosphere. The umbrellas vary in price from £30 to £200+ and I had my heart set on a bespoke model. Therefore, I decided to test the store, with their cheaper models beforehand - going on the basis that if they are sold within the same lineage (from that store) then they should insist upon quality throughout. I was advised by a gruff staff member, that this (£30 umbrella) was not a throw away, but was a 'keeper', therefore if any issues occurred then I should bring it in for repair. This was exactly what I wanted to hear, after all one can easily purchase a decent full length umbrella elsewhere for £10. I was very happy with my purchase, one could tell that it exuded something a bit special (slim profile, good balance, sturdy canvas) and fortunately for me, I had a few rainy days to test it out. However, within 2 weeks, I noticed the canvas starting to unravel at the top. I returned this later on, explaining that it had unravelled - expecting it to be a quick repair, but was told that I might as well buy another one since repair is £30 - so much for spending more on an investment. Stupidly, I decided to do buy again, after a chat with a more polite member of staff. This time, I ensured that I let the umbrella fully dry whilst open, each time it was used. It may be due to that fastidious approach, or perhaps it was of better stock, but this time the umbrella showed signs of unravelling after a few months. I have decided against spending £200+ on the bespoke umbrellas at this store. I abhor the disposable consumerism that is currently celebrated, thus am willing to spend more on an investment which will work out cheaper (and more enjoyable) in the long run - with few, if any, cheap repairs needed. Unfortunately, too many businesses, especially in this country, profit from their heritage whilst their contemporary offers leave a lot to be desired. £30 is a lot for a simple repair, especially if it due to a design fault. It is a shame that such little attention was paid to the details especially when they could have so easily been resolved (canvas too tight and/or not enough stitching.) Had they addressed this, then they would have easily won my confidence in the company and by now I would have hopefully established a good relationship with them. Unfortunately, I really do not know of any viable alternatives, other than overpriced designer brands, to offer both bespoke and off-the-shelf umbrellas. So unless I find one, I shall continue to use my second purchase from this shop, until the canvas comes apart to the extent that it is easily noticable, or problematic. I know that repeating ones mistakes is a sure sign of madness; however, the actual products are actually well made overall, and the stock and dedication to the solitary item means that I am seduced! It is such a glaring shame that it is just the details which bring the quality and reputation of this store (and its products) down in the same way that a pea-sized hole in the hull of a tanker could do the same thing. If I had the skills to repair the faulty seam myself, my £30 purchase would be bullet-proof, and this shop would be 5/5 stars, but with a disclaimer. As it stands, I have decided that I shall be purchasing a 'final' umbrella from this store, I will spend up to £50 on it, just to check whether the differentiation in price affects the considerations (or materials.) Should this be a genuine 'keeper', then I will gladly recommend the products (£50+) to all, and purchase 4 bespoke umbrellas from the shop. However, if the same issue occurs, despite my previous feedback to store staff, then I shall cease the patronage of this shop, as it would signify 3 strikes against a shoddy firm who aim to profiteer from unwitting tourists with specious claims of quality derived from history. Until then, my rating remains a cautionary 2/5.

A top class umbrella shop designed in the spirit of the Victorian age. They offer a wide selection that would most definitely suit the taste of even the most pretentious clients. And the best part is that every individual umbrella has its own character and feeling so you might need to spend a while picking the one that feels right for you. But don't worry the staff is extremely knowledgeable and will help you pick the one that completes you. I would warmly recommend this shop to anyone who takes his umbrellas very seriously and would never settle for a £5 plastic one.

definitely overpriced for umbrellas, but they are high quality and a classic family-owned stored in UK. great for souvenirs as you can only buy them in London. they have a online site but do not sell.

Very disappointing. I took my Burberry umbrella in for repair after it got turned inside-out in the recent winds, and they said that they only repaired their own. And there they are, four or five smartly dressed young men surrounded by millions of umbrellas. Ridiculous.

Wonderful store, fabulous stock. But OHHHH NOOOO, don't try to send a gift from the store. They didn't send out my gift for two weeks. When I checked back at the store after 13 days, they showed me the gift wrapped for sending, still sitting in the store with a promise it would be sent that day. It would be another day till it would actually sent out. When I sent a request for an explanation to the sales email address, I received this response; "Thank you for your interest in James Smith and Sons (Umbrellas), Ltd. Please note that due to the volume of electronic messages we receive, we can only respond to sales enquiries." This level of customer service is simply unacceptable.