Introducing our latest member, Swaine

Established in 1750 as whip and saddlery makers, Swaine is the oldest name in British luxury goods, serving the British royal family, nobility and gentry for hundreds of years. Today, the House of Swaine has perfected its sophisticated, traditional designs, and has become a leading British brand which is now proud to offer quality Swaine leather goods, as well as Herbert Johnson headwear and Brigg umbrellas. Together, they form a triumvirate of heritage brands, all proud to produce pieces handcrafted in the UK, with a rich artisanal history behind them and a passion for quality shared at their core.

Learn a little more about our latest addition to the Walpole membership in our interview with Swaine's Director of Brand Development, Monty Lowry Corry...

Walpole: Tell us about the history of your brand…

The history of Swaine is inextricably linked to the story of Great Britain itself. As the UK’s oldest luxury brand, our journey mirrors the highs and lows of our nation's evolution. Founded in 1750 as a royal whipmaker to King George III, Swaine has survived — and thrived through — centuries of change. Our success is rooted in two uncompromising principles: an unwavering dedication to hand-crafted perfection in the heart of London, and a forward-thinking, entrepreneurial spirit. Over 275 years, we’ve proudly earned 105 royal warrants, but we value just as deeply the opportunity to serve today’s discerning global customers with the same quality, care, and courtesy as we do royalty.

What is your brand best known for?

Swaine is best known for being the oldest luxury brand in the UK and for our fully operational workshop in the heart of Mayfair. Here, our heritage leather goods are crafted from the very first stitch to the final buckle — a rare and enduring commitment to craftsmanship that we are immensely proud of.

What has been a significant achievement in your company’s timeline?

One of our defining achievements in history was adapting to the Industrial Revolution and the rise of the motorcar, which led many British artisans into decline. Under Edward Swaine Adeney, we swiftly expanded into travelling trunks, luggage, and umbrellas as demand for equestrian whips waned. Today, we continue to produce a select range of equestrian goods, preserving our heritage and craftsmanship.

Beyond our craftsmanship, our products have graced the silver screen, becoming icons in cinematic history. From the Whangee umbrella featured in Singin’ in the Rain to the attaché case carried by James Bond in From Russia with Love, our creations have been integral to some of the most memorable moments in film. Other notable appearances include Julie Andrews' Brigg parrot-head umbrella in Mary Poppins, Harrison Ford donning a Herbert Johnson poet hat in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and various characters wearing Herbert Johnson felt hats in Peaky Blinders.

Why do you love the brand?

I’m a patriot at heart. In a time when the celebration of British craftsmanship, history, and heritage feels increasingly under pressure, Swaine stands as a proud testament to all three. It embodies everything I admire about British luxury: timeless, meaningful, and exquisitely made. It deserves to be celebrated.

Why does your brand represent the very best in British luxury?

As the oldest luxury brand in Britain, with origins dating back even earlier than our formal founding in 1750, Swaine has consistently set the benchmark for British craftsmanship. We have pioneered and perfected the art of leatherwork, hat-making, and umbrella-making for generations. But beyond our heritage, we are committed to evolving — marrying traditional techniques with modern innovations in design and materials. This seamless blend of history and progress defines British luxury at its finest: enduring, relevant, and quietly extraordinary.

What attracted you to becoming a Walpole member?

Walpole stands apart. Its prestige is world-renowned, but what impressed us most is the depth of its engagement, the thoughtfulness of its programming, and the sincerity of its passion for British luxury. It is a community that shares our values — so for us, joining felt both natural and essential.

If you could collaborate with another Walpole member, which one would you choose?

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. We crafted some of the original luggage for their early motorcars, and were proud to count both Mr. Rolls and Mr. Royce as customers. It’s a relationship rooted in shared values — heritage, precision, and excellence — and one we would be honoured to continue and evolve.

Tell us about an exciting development or new launch for your brand in the coming months?

We have just opened our first store in Switzerland at the Montreux Palace hotel on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is an exciting first step into our bold and carefully considered international expansion. In addition, we are excited to serve our other European clientele at trunk shows in both Monaco and St Moritz in the coming months.