Barbour jacket showcased by a man leaning against a Land Rover with his dog.

What Makes Our Great British Brands So Special?

May 2, 2024

As St George’s Day arrives, it is a great time to celebrate our most inspirational British brands. From established icons like Barbour to the sustainable focus of Paramo, these names represent the best of British manufacturing. These companies have led the way for over 200 years, continuing to create high-quality pieces every season.

Barbour

Barbour jacket and flat cap worn by a man standing next to a Land Rover. High-quality, stylish outdoor clothing perfect for countryside and outdoor activities.

Founded in South Shields in 1894, Barbour is a family-owned business in its fifth generation. The brand reflects the values of the British countryside, combining durability with a practical style. To remain true to its heritage, the company still manufactures and repairs classic Barbour wax jackets at its Simonside factory.

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 addition to the British brands at The Sporting Lodge is Paramo. This brand was started by Nick Brown, who also founded the waterproofing specialist Nikwax. Choosing Paramo waterproof outdoor gear ensures you have intelligent designs that offer complete protection and comfort in the harshest weather conditions.

Sunspel

Sunspel menswear featuring a man in a stylish jacket by the water. Luxury British clothing brand established in 1860, known for timeless and high-quality fashion.

Sunspel has provided British luxury since 1860, using the finest natural materials to create high-quality wardrobe staples. The brand has operated from its Long Eaton factory for more than 80 years. By choosing Sunspel British-made clothing, you are supporting a legacy of skills passed down through generations.

Purdey

Purdey men's outdoor clothing, featuring two men in stylish jackets and shirts. Premium British brand known for high-quality hunting and countryside apparel.

Established in 1814, Purdey is closely linked with the British Crown and has held three Royal Warrants. The company has served the Royal Family since 1838. Today, Purdey luxury country clothing remains a symbol of quality, while their workshop in Hammersmith still produces all their world-renowned guns.

Westley Richards

Westley Richards outdoor clothing, featuring a man in a rugged jacket next to a Land Rover. Premium British brand established in 1812, known for high-quality hunting and outdoor gear.

Westley Richards originally supplied arms to the British Army during the 1800s. Today, they are famous for producing Westley Richards leather goods. Each piece is handmade in their Birmingham workshop, using traditional techniques perfected over two centuries.

Brady Bags

Brady Bags classic canvas and leather bag showcased in front of a traditional cottage. Renowned for durable and stylish bags, perfect for outdoor and everyday use.

Brady Bags has been making premium bags in the UK for over 150 years. They are known for expert craftsmanship and sturdy materials. Every item in the handcrafted Brady canvas bags collection is made by hand in their Walsall factory, ensuring no shortcuts are taken during production.

Tricker’s

Tricker's handcrafted leather boots with rugged soles, perfect for outdoor wear. Premium British footwear brand known for quality and durability since 1829.

Founded in 1829, Tricker’s is the oldest shoemaker in Britain. Still owned by the founding family, the footwear is made entirely in their Northampton factory. When you buy British-made Tricker’s shoes, you are wearing a brand that has held a Royal Warrant since 1989 and continues to make footwear for HM King Charles III.

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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