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The ultimate vintage vault of umbrellas has been weathering London’s storms since the early 19th century, when the first Mr. Smith founded the renowned James Smith and Sons (Umbrellas) in London’s West End. The umbrellas were made in a small workshop in the back, then sold in front.
The regal stamp of approval came early. Queen Victoria was so smitten by their umbrella prowess that she offered the shop her royal seal of approval in 1838. Many years later, Winston Churchill and several other dignitaries modeled their strong frame and used them often.
Mastering the art of blocking rain in London yields superb business, and with their family-run success came several upgrades and relocations: the shop briefly had a home in Saville Place that was too narrow to open an umbrella inside. Those snug quarters were knocked down, so they reopened near Piccadilly Circus. They may have opened a few too many brelly inside that one, as that shop was decimated in a bombing raid during WWII.
This pearly white shop on New Oxford Street, for the most part, has not been changed since opening and has proudly maintained its Victorian shop front design. It remains one of Central London’s landmarks and a common, very convenient reference point for black cab drivers, travelers lacking a map, and locals who may have had one too many ales.
As for the inside, James Smith & Sons have exhausted all possible renditions of a ‘brolly: from adjusting their curved handles according to grip preference and style; to fashioning secret compartments for a stash of candy, mood enhancers, or documents; to even crafting bespoke umbrellas for four-legged companions.
And for those who thought an umbrella was just an umbrella, think again—better yet, venture a visit and pick your parasol. A healthy stock of styles will be presented, including The London, The City, The Slim, The Fit-Up, The (marvelously named) Solid Stick, The Birdcage, The Pencil, The Walking Length…and that’s before you even arrive at their distinguished selection of walking sticks.
While you’re perusing, inside or on the sidewalk, you’ll find sundry proverbs and witticisms about rain, sun, and all things meteorological—so there’s always something dry to smirk about at James Smith & Sons.
