London: Tea Time in Wonderland

I don’t know why, I always imagine Sherlock Holmes walking out of this shop. The refinement, the quaintness, the meticulousity of each detail.

In the 19th century, umbrellas and canes completed the perfect gentleman’s uniform – most elegant and practical final touch. James Smith opens his store in 1830 on Fourbet street: he makes and repairs brollies of all kinds. His son takes over in1867 and opens up at this location.

Time has literally stopped. Both the façade and internal fittings are original and Grade II listed. So picturesque! Varnished wood, walking sticks with delicate sculpted handles, serious umbrellas or laced sunshades, aligned by theme or colour. Did Mary Poppins get hers here?

Only concession to the modern era, the fabric used is now nylon. The umbrellas are still mainly made on site, in the basement. I was lucky on several visits to see one of the crafters sitting near the counter with a brolly frame in his hand. Fascinating work, almost touching in this lovely old fashioned background…

Their motto is a pure gem of British humour:

Outside every silver lining is a big black cloud...

James Smith & Sons
Hazelwood House
53 New Oxford Street
London WC1A 1BL

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