Barbour jacket showcased by a man leaning against a Land Rover with his dog. Durable and stylish outdoor wear ideal for countryside adventures and rugged terrains.

What Makes Our Great British Brands So Special?

May 2, 2024

s St George’s day arrives, it’s time we celebrate our truly inspirational great British brands. From heritage icons such as Barbour, through to sustainably conscious newbies Paramo, to timeless designed wardrobe essentials of Sunspel. These British brands have been leading the way for over 200 years and continue to craft excellent pieces, season by season.

Barbour

Born in the South Shields in 1984, Barbour is now a 5th generation family owned business that espouses the unique values of the British Countryside and brings the qualities of wit, grit and glamour to its beautifully functional pieces. Staying true to being British made, Barbour still manufacture and repair some of their classic wax jackets in their factory in Simonside, South Shields.

Paramo

Páramo waterproof jacket worn by a man standing on a beach. Premium outdoor gear designed for wet and windy conditions, perfect for coastal and countryside adventures.

The newest member of the Great British brands on The Sporting Lodge, Paramo is the inception of Nick Brown, the founder of renowned waterproofing manufacturer Nikwax. Paramo combines intelligent design and functional details to provide optimum weather protection and high comfort in the harshest conditions.

Sunspel

British luxury since 1860, Sunspel have been crafting elevated wardrobe essentials from the world's finest natural materials. Based in their factory in Long Eaton for over 80 years, they have passed down knowledge, skills and expertise through generations.

Purdey

Established in 1814, Purdey is synonymous with the British Crown, having received three Royal Warrants, Purdey has served the Royal Family since 1838. Purdey is now based in Felgate Mews, Hammersmith where they still produce all their guns.

Westley Richards

Originally supplying arms to the British Army in the 1800s, Westley Richards now produces high-quality leather goods, handmade in their workshop in Birmingham using the same traditional techniques they have used for over 200 years.

Brady Bags

Crafting premium quality bags for over 150 years, Brady Bags is renowned for their timeless designs, expert craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials. With every bag produced by hand in their factory in Walsall, there are no shortcuts to making a Brady Bag.

Tricker’s

Founded in 1892, Tricker’s is the oldest shoemaker in Britain. Still owned by the founding family, Tricker’s footwear is produced entirely in their factory in Northampton still following the traditional techniques. Receiving a Royal Warrant in 1989, Tricker’s still make shoes for HM King Charles II to this day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Barbour jackets stand out among British outdoor clothing?

Barbour jackets are renowned for their durable waxed cotton fabric, British craftsmanship, and functional countryside designs. Manufactured in South Shields, their jackets blend practicality with heritage style, offering waterproofing, warmth, and repair services that extend their life for decades. Barbour’s jackets have become a symbol of British outdoor living.

How does Paramo clothing differ from other outdoor brands?

Paramo uses unique directional fabrics that actively move moisture away from the body, offering superior comfort compared to traditional waterproof membranes. Their commitment to sustainable production and social responsibility, particularly their Colombian Fair Trade manufacturing initiative, sets them apart from mainstream outdoor brands focused solely on technical features.

Why is Sunspel considered a leader in British luxury basics?

Sunspel pioneered the development of the modern T-shirt and continues to create refined essentials using premium materials like Sea Island Cotton. Based in Long Eaton, Sunspel’s factory produces garments that balance elegance with everyday wearability. Their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation secures their position as a leader in understated British style.

What is Purdey best known for besides luxury clothing?

Purdey is most famous for their hand-crafted sporting guns, which have served the Royal Family and British aristocracy since the early 19th century. Their clothing line extends this tradition of excellence, offering tweed jackets, outerwear, and accessories that merge traditional field wear with contemporary tailoring and technical improvements.

Are Tricker’s boots still handmade in the UK?

Yes, Tricker’s boots are still handmade at their original Northampton factory using techniques passed down since 1829. Each pair is Goodyear welted for durability and built to last a lifetime with proper care. Tricker’s continues to uphold its reputation as the oldest established shoemaker in Britain, creating footwear loved by countryside enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.

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