Walpole: Tell us about the history of your brand…
Christopher Sleigh: Sleigh's has a rich history that dates back to 1889, when we began as a bicycle shop in Edinburgh. Over the decades, we've undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from our roots in transportation to becoming a premier curator of bespoke luxury journeys. This transition reflects our enduring commitment to innovation and our ability to anticipate and meet the changing needs of our clientele. Today, we dedicate ourselves to connecting discerning travellers with the unique cultures and landscapes across the UK and Ireland, crafting exceptional experiences that honour our heritage of quality and service.
What is your brand best known for?
Sleigh's is best known for crafting personalised luxury journeys that immerse HNW-individuals in the heart of the UK and Ireland. Our experiences are designed to blend adventure, culture and wellness, allowing clients to explore hidden gems and engage with local traditions authentically.
What has been a significant achievement in your company's timeline?
A significant achievement in our family business is receiving a Royal Warrant of Her Late Majesty the Queen for chauffeur driven services, which we have proudly held for over 48 years. This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and delivering seamless luxury. It reflects our dedication to creating exceptional experiences, upholding the highest standards of quality, and reinforcing our legacy of trust and distinction in British luxury.
Why do you love the brand?
We love Sleigh's because it embodies a philosophy of meaningful connection. Each journey we curate is not just about travel, it’s about creating lasting memories and fostering relationships with the places we visit. Our commitment to authenticity ensures that every experience reflects the true essence of British and Irish culture.
Why does your brand represent the very best in British luxury?
Sleigh's represents the pinnacle of British luxury through our unwavering dedication to quality, personalisation, and sustainability. We believe that true luxury lies in experiences that enrich lives and foster genuine connections with people and places. Our curated journeys celebrate the diverse beauty of the UK and Ireland while prioritising ethical practices.
What attracted you to becoming a Walpole member?
We were drawn to Walpole because it embodies excellence in British luxury. Joining this esteemed community allows us to collaborate with like-minded brands that share our commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. We look forward to contributing to the collective narrative of British luxury while learning from our fellow members.
If you could collaborate with another Walpole member, which one would you choose?
Collaborating with Simpsons' Wine Estate offers an exciting opportunity for Sleigh’s to develop immersive experiences that celebrate our shared commitment to authenticity and craftsmanship. We envision creating experiences that celebrate the rich heritage of English sparkling wine allowing guests to engage with both brands in meaningful ways.
By focusing on the unique landscapes and local cultures surrounding Simpsons' Wine Estate, we could design events and experiences that integrate wine tastings with elements of adventure, such as guided vineyard tours or culinary workshops featuring local produce. These experiences would not only highlight the intricacies of winemaking but also foster connections between guests and the artisans behind each product.
Through storytelling, hands-on activities, and a deep appreciation for the land, we aim to provide visitors with lasting memories that encapsulate the essence of British luxury—where every moment is an invitation to explore, learn, and indulge in the beauty of our craft.
Tell us about an exciting development or new launch for your brand in the coming months?
Sleigh's is delighted to announce our innovative 'Earned Luxury: An Immersive Experience in Every Moment' concept, which is set to launch in the coming months. This new approach to luxury travel is rooted in creating authentic, deeply engaging experiences across Scotland, Ireland and England.
Our 'Earned Luxury' concept redefines opulence by focusing on immersive cultural encounters, adventure and genuine connections with local communities. We've carefully analysed travel trends and guest feedback to craft journeys that go beyond traditional sightseeing. Each curated experience is designed to ground travellers in the essence of their destination, creating lasting memories and a profound sense of place. Our expert team combines extensive local knowledge with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every aspect of the journey from accommodations to guides aligns with our guests' individual preferences.
By embracing this philosophy, Sleigh's is setting a new standard in experiential travel. We're excited to offer our clients the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and discover the true richness of Scotland, Ireland and England through authentic, transformative experiences.
> Visit Sleigh's UK and Ireland member profile
> Contact Barry Wallace, Brand & Strategy Manager, Sleigh's
