In London, a city often associated with cloudy skies and constant rain, the James Smith & Sons shop has become a tourist attraction due to its long tradition. With nearly two hundred years of experience in the sector, the shop maintains its focus on umbrellas, which are its main item of sale, along with canes. In addition to the product, it charms visitors with a time-travel atmosphere, as it occupies the same address since the mid-19th century, preserving its façade and interior in an almost intact Victorian style.
Although the stereotype suggests that London is extremely rainy, meteorological data indicates that the city's annual precipitation is comparable to that of other European capitals without this reputation. However, the occurrence of days with some rain, even if light, makes the umbrellas from James Smith & Sons useful in the English capital for several generations.
The foundation occurred in 1830 by James Smith, whose name remains in the business. Initially, the establishment operated as a workshop with its own umbrella production, a common practice at the time. The business gained momentum two decades later when members of the Smith family pioneered the incorporation of metal frame technology, which gave greater resistance and functionality to their products.
The company's success led to a move in 1857 to the imposing building that still serves as the shop's headquarters. At that time, James Smith's sons were already managing the business, and the addition of '& Sons' was made to the name. This building, which has retained much of its internal and external characteristics since then, has been listed as a historical heritage site, offering a glimpse into typical Victorian London architecture, furniture, and commerce.
James Smith & Sons is located in the building known as Hazelwood House, at number 53 New Oxford Street, near the British Museum and close to the Tottenham Court Road/Holborn metro station. To walk there, it is recommended to walk along Oxford Street to the intersection with Tottenham Court Road, at which point the original street becomes called 'New'.
Opening hours are Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 5:30 pm, closed on Sundays and holidays. On Wednesdays, opening is at 10:30 am, and on Saturdays, closing is fifteen minutes earlier. More details can be found on the official website.
The umbrellas from James Smith & Sons are recognized for their high quality, a feat attested by the store's two centuries of history, both in public and in reviews. However, the product is considered expensive; just like in the 19th century, the house's exclusive umbrellas and canes continue to be handcrafted in a workshop located in the basement of the shop.
Besides product excellence, a notable differentiator is the carved handles, available in various designs according to customer preference. Ancestral knowledge of umbrella details also ensures a lifetime repair service: if any item develops a defect after several years, the house's specialists are available to resolve the issue.
It is important to note that purchasing a characteristic product from the shop may involve a high cost, which may not be advantageous for passing tourists who do not plan to return to use the technical assistance. The positive advantage is that visiting the location is free, making it a pleasant option for a different outing in London, regardless of the weather.