James Lock & Co., Historic hat shop in St James's, England
James Lock & Co. is a millinery in St James's Street, Westminster, that has operated from the same address since its foundation. The workshop preserves its original layout with wooden display cabinets, a narrow sales room, and a rear area dedicated to production.
The millinery was founded in 1676 and has served aristocratic and civilian clients from London for centuries. The premises survived the Great Fire and remained in operation through political and social changes.
The shop holds royal warrants from the British monarchy and has crafted hats for notable figures including Admiral Lord Nelson and Winston Churchill.
Visitors can view the display cabinets freely and arrange a fitting if desired. The staff explains materials and advises on fit using traditional methods with measuring tapes and wooden molds.
The workshop still uses the same techniques as in the 17th century and shapes each hat by hand on individual wooden blocks. Some blocks still carry the names of clients from past generations.
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