The Best Of British Brands

June 1, 2022

In celebration of the Queens Platinum Jubilee, we are showcasing the best of British brands that we stock here at The Sporting Lodge.

Britain has produced some of the greatest – and most well-known – brands in the world. The following brands all have a heritage-heavy feel to their garments which are synonymous with the English countryside, guaranteed to last & will keep you kitted-out in great gear for the not-always-great British weather.

BARBOUR
PURDEY
SUNSPEL
WESTLEY RICHARDS

Man Wearing Barbour Country Clothing Standing With Dog Next to Land Rover

BARBOUR

Unrivalled in every sense of the word, there’s no doubt that Barbour deserves its place on this list. Not only does the British fashion brand have a heritage-heavy great story behind it, it is also one of the best in the game for functional and beautiful outerwear guaranteed to last for years to come.

Man Holding Cocked Discharged Purdey Shotgun

PURDEY

Purdey is a brand synonymous with the English countryside; one whose heritage is at the forefront of everything that it does and produces. Purdey has been going strong since 1814 and continues to be one of the most sought-after British brands there is, keeping you well kitted-out in great gear in the not-so-great British weather.

Man Wearing a Sunspel T-Shirt Sitting in a Field of Wild Flowers

SUNSPEL

Founded in 1860, Sunspel is an innovative British brand with a contemporary edge. Taking inspiration from Britain’s rich heritage of specialist manufacturers, Sunspel produce a range of essentials so versatile, effortless and wear-forever. Using only the highest quality fabrics they have spent decades perfecting the feel of the cotton for their ever famous t-shirts.

Collection of Westley Richards Travel Bags and a Pair of Shoes

WESTLEY RICHARDS

Seated in the heart of England’s second city, Birmingham, as they have been since the 1812, Westley Richards Boasts unmistakable English style, unbeatable British quality and exclusive European classics. Their country collection brings the finest tweeds, leather, cotton, canvas and wool together to craft traditional shooting and travel kit which is smart enough for any occasion yet rugged enough for every eventuality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do British brands thrive in wet weather?

British brands excel in damp conditions by using traditional techniques developed over centuries. They use waxed cotton and test their products against harsh gales in Yorkshire and the Pennines, ensuring gear stays dry and dependable even in 50 mph winds.

How did wartime shape British brand grit?

During WWII, resource shortages forced British makers to innovate with limited materials. Midlands tailors stitched RAF overcoats with double-sewn seams in the 1940s, forging a legacy of robust, practical country wear that still defines British manufacturing today.

What’s the secret to British leather quality?

British leather is cured in Devon tanneries using oak bark—a method from the 1600s. Extended soaking in Dart river pits produces thick, supple leather ideal for boots and bags that easily shrug off mud.

Why do royals back British brand prestige?

Royal support for British brands dates back to the 1760s under George III. Buckingham Palace seamstresses test tweeds during Exmoor hunts to ensure that country gear meets the high standards demanded by the crown.

How do British brands blend old and new?

British brands combine century-old looms with modern nano-tech fibres. In Lancashire mills and Cumbria, spinners use AI to dye wool with precision, preserving traditional cuts while producing tougher, more resilient fabrics.

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