John Lobb St. James
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Established in 1880 on St. James's Street, John Lobb stands as one of the world's most prestigious bespoke shoemakers. This legendary London institution crafts handmade shoes of exceptional quality, earning Royal Warrants and the patronage of royalty and discerning gentlemen for over 170 years. The shop itself is a testament to heritage, displaying framed photographs and distinctions throughout its quaint premises. Each pair is meticulously created to exact specifications, accommodating even the most challenging feet with custom lasts. While ready-to-wear options are available, the bespoke service represents the pinnacle of traditional shoemaking craft, using only the finest materials and construction techniques.
A brief summary to John Lobb St. James
- 9 St James's St, London, SW1A 1EF, GB
- +442079303664
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Exclusive
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book an appointment in advance for the bespoke service to ensure personalized attention from the craftsmen and to discuss your specific requirements and foot measurements.
- Allow several months for bespoke shoes to be completed after your fitting, as each pair is handcrafted to order with meticulous attention to detail.
- Visit the St. James's Street location rather than the Jermyn Street premises for the full heritage experience and access to the bespoke workshop.
- Invest in proper shoe trees and care products to maintain your John Lobb shoes and ensure they develop a beautiful patina over time.
- Explore the ready-to-wear collection if bespoke pricing is prohibitive; these shoes still offer exceptional quality and the renowned John Lobb fit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
John Lobb St. James location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about John Lobb St. James
A Legacy of Royal Patronage and Uncompromising Craftsmanship
John Lobb arrived in London in 1866 and established his first shop on Regent Street, followed by the current St. James's Street location in 1880. The brand's reputation for excellence quickly caught the attention of the royal family, earning a Royal Warrant in 1863 from the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII. This seal of approval cemented John Lobb's status as the bootmaker of choice for the aristocracy and discerning gentlemen. Today, the brand continues to serve royalty—Prince Charles and his sons William and Henry wear John Lobbs, as did Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana. The shop has also attracted celebrated figures including Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, and Laurence Olivier, earning the brand the affectionate title "Rembrandt of shoes."The Bespoke Experience: Precision Meets Tradition
The bespoke service at John Lobb represents the pinnacle of shoemaking craft. Each pair is meticulously handcrafted to the client's exact specifications and foot measurements, with no machinery involved in the creation process. A unique last is created for each client, ensuring a perfect fit that accommodates even the slightest asymmetries between feet. This personalized approach has made John Lobb renowned for its ability to create shoes that fit like a second skin, even for those with challenging feet. The process involves traditional welting techniques, hand-nailing of heels, and the use of premium oxford calf leather and other high-quality materials. The construction of these bespoke masterpieces is a testament to centuries of accumulated knowledge and skill, with each shoe bearing the hallmarks of individual craftsmanship rather than mass production.The Character of Rustic Elegance
John Lobb shoes are characterized by understated elegance and a stripped-down design sensibility that prioritizes durability and timelessness over contemporary flourishes. The aesthetic tends toward the classic and conservative, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation that aligns perfectly with the "old money" look favored by the brand's clientele. The finishing and detailing are defined by idiosyncrasies and quirks that give each pair character—a rustic but solid approach to construction that may appear less refined than some competitors, yet proves more durable over decades of wear. The shoes develop a rich patina over time that enhances their appeal, with many owners reporting decades of use with proper care and occasional resoling. This philosophy of substance over style means John Lobb shoes weather the years better than flashier rivals, making them a genuine investment in footwear that will outlast trends and fashions.The St. James's Street Premises
The shop itself is a destination worthy of pilgrimage for shoe enthusiasts and those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship. Located on St. James's Street near Buckingham Palace, the premises are quaint and atmospheric, with walls graced by framed photographs and distinctions documenting the brand's storied history. Glass cases display hundreds of shoes, showcasing the range of styles and the meticulous attention to detail that defines the brand. The location sits within the aristocratic "Clubland" of St. James's, a neighborhood perennially fashionable since the days of Henry VIII and a premier destination for high-end craft and bespoke design. The area is surprisingly central and accessible, with Green Park and St. James's Park nearby, and Piccadilly Circus just a short distance away. The shop's atmosphere invites visitors to step into a world where traditional craftsmanship remains paramount and quality is never compromised.Investment in Timeless Quality
When purchasing John Lobb shoes, particularly bespoke offerings, one is investing in a piece of sartorial history rather than merely buying footwear. Prices reflect not only the quality of materials and craftsmanship but also the brand's storied heritage and exclusivity. Bespoke pairs represent a significant financial commitment, with many costing thousands of pounds, yet they are built to last generations. The ready-to-wear collection, while less expensive than bespoke options, still commands premium pricing and offers excellent fit and quality construction. For those who value traditional craftsmanship, appreciate subtle luxury, and have the means to indulge, John Lobb shoes represent an unparalleled investment. The brand's longevity—over 170 years of continuous operation—speaks to the enduring appeal and quality of these shoes, making them a choice that transcends fashion and enters the realm of timeless elegance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Republic of Texas Plaque
0.0 km
A hidden brass plaque marking where the Republic of Texas once sought recognition from the British Crown.
Pickering Pl
0.0 km
Discover Pickering Place, London's smallest square, a hidden Georgian courtyard steeped in duels, diplomacy, and timeless charm.
St. James's Palace
0.1 km
Discover the Tudor grandeur and royal ceremonies at London’s oldest palace, the enduring heart of British monarchy.
Beau Brummell Statue
0.2 km
The dandy who revolutionised menswear and defined Regency elegance in bronze.
St James's Square
0.3 km
London’s oldest garden square, where Georgian elegance meets centuries of power, politics, and high society in the heart of Westminster.
King George VI & Queen Elizabeth,The Queen Mother Memorial
0.3 km
A dignified London memorial honoring King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, through iconic bronze statues and historic symbolism.
3 Carlton House Terrace
0.4 km
Elegant Grade I listed townhouse in London’s historic Carlton House Terrace, blending royal heritage with refined Georgian architecture.
Burlington House
0.4 km
A grand 17th-century mansion on Piccadilly, now home to the Royal Academy of Arts and Britain’s leading learned societies, blending Palladian elegance with centuries of art and science.
Guards Crimean War Memorial
0.4 km
A poignant bronze tribute in central London honoring the valor and sacrifice of ordinary soldiers in the Crimean War.
Equestrian statue of Edward Ⅶ
0.4 km
Majestic bronze tribute to King Edward VII in the heart of London’s historic Waterloo Place, blending regal artistry with imperial heritage.
3 Savile Row
0.5 km
Historic Georgian townhouse in London, famed as The Beatles’ Apple Corps HQ and site of their legendary 1969 rooftop concert.
225 Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
At the luminous heart of London’s West End, 225 Piccadilly Circus dazzles with history, iconic lights, and vibrant urban energy.
Eros (Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain)
0.5 km
Iconic London landmark honoring Victorian philanthropy with the world’s first aluminium statue, set amidst Piccadilly Circus’s vibrant theatre district.
Piccadilly Circus
0.5 km
Piccadilly Circus pulses with iconic neon lights, historic monuments, and vibrant street life at the heart of London’s West End.
Buckingham Palace
0.6 km
Experience the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, a historical landmark in the heart of London.
Unmissable attractions to see
Berry Bros. & Rudd Wine Shop
0.1 km
Discover the rich heritage and exquisite selection of wines at Berry Bros. & Rudd, London's historic wine shop and event venue.
Christie's London
0.1 km
Christie's London, at 8 King Street, is a historic and prestigious auction house renowned for its world-class art and luxury sales since 1766.
The Queen's Chapel
0.1 km
Discover the elegant 17th-century Palladian chapel beside St. James’s Palace, steeped in royal history and architectural refinement.
Spencer House
0.2 km
Step into Spencer House, a stunning 18th-century London mansion showcasing neoclassical elegance, aristocratic history, and exquisite interiors.
Clarence House
0.2 km
Explore Clarence House, the historic London residence of King Charles III, showcasing royal heritage, exquisite art, and elegant Regency architecture.
Masons Yard
0.2 km
Discover Mason's Yard, a historic London square blending rich artistic heritage with cutting-edge contemporary galleries in the heart of St James's.
White Cube Mason's Yard
0.2 km
Premier contemporary art gallery in St James's, free admission, architectural landmark housing international exhibitions.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Lancaster House
0.2 km
Lancaster House: London’s neoclassical masterpiece blending royal history, political heritage, and elegant government hospitality near Buckingham Palace.
Fortnum & Mason
0.3 km
Three centuries of British luxury, tradition, and culinary excellence on Piccadilly
Paxton & Whitfield Ltd
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage of British cheese at Paxton & Whitfield, London's historic cheese shop on Jermyn Street, featuring exceptional selections and gourmet delights.
Prestat Chocolates
0.3 km
Discover London’s oldest royal chocolate shop, where century-old truffle traditions meet theatrical elegance in Piccadilly’s charming Princes Arcade.
Burlington Arcade
0.3 km
Step into Burlington Arcade, a historic 1819 luxury shopping gallery in London, where Regency charm meets exclusive boutiques and timeless traditions.
Hatchards - Piccadilly
0.3 km
Explore Hatchards, London's oldest bookshop since 1797, a historic literary haven with royal warrants and timeless charm on Piccadilly.
Pall Mall
0.3 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Essential places to dine
Golden Lion
0.1 km
Historic 1690s pub in St James's offering classic British fare, rich heritage, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere near Buckingham Palace.
Great British Restaurant
0.1 km
Elegant British dining in the heart of St James’s, blending traditional flavors with modern sophistication in a tranquil hotel setting.
Seven Park Place by William Drabble
0.1 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Mayfair offering refined British-French cuisine by Chef William Drabble in an elegant Art Deco setting.
Quaglino's
0.2 km
Glamorous basement brasserie with live music, cocktails, and theatrical dining in St. James's.
HIDE
0.4 km
Discover refined Modern European cuisine with panoramic Green Park views at HIDE, a Michelin-starred gem blending innovation and elegance in Mayfair.
Wild Honey St James
0.5 km
Michelin-starred French-influenced cooking in a Grade II-listed banking hall, where refined technique meets understated elegance.
Ormer Mayfair Restaurant
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British dining in an elegant 1930s-style Mayfair setting, offering inventive tasting menus and impeccable service.
Kricket Soho
0.6 km
Discover bold, modern Indian small plates in a lively Soho setting with an open kitchen and vibrant basement dining.
NOPI
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors in Soho at NOPI, Ottolenghi’s innovative restaurant known for shareable, seasonal dishes.
Mele e Pere
0.7 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors and a rich vermouth selection in the cozy, candlelit basement of Soho’s Mele e Pere.
Bantof
0.7 km
Discover Bantof, Soho’s intimate hotspot blending Michelin-starred modern European cuisine, inventive cocktails, and vibrant art in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Blacklock Soho
0.7 km
A vibrant Soho basement chophouse serving exceptional grass-fed steaks and chops in a lively, rustic setting with unbeatable value.
Evelyn's Table
0.7 km
Discover Evelyn's Table, a Michelin-starred, intimate dining counter in Soho offering inventive British cuisine with French and Japanese flair.
Bob Bob Ricard Soho
0.7 km
Experience glamorous British & French dining in Soho with iconic booths and a unique ‘Press for Champagne’ button at every table.
Kingly Court
0.7 km
Discover a world of flavors in London’s vibrant Kingly Court, where global cuisine meets Soho’s lively spirit.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
John Lobb St. James
0.0 km
Where 170 years of royal patronage meets handcrafted perfection in every stitch.
Turnbull & Asser Jermyn Street
0.2 km
Discover Turnbull & Asser on Jermyn Street, the quintessential British shirtmaker blending heritage craftsmanship with timeless elegance since 1885.
Floris London
0.3 km
Experience nearly three centuries of British fragrance heritage at Floris London’s historic boutique on iconic Jermyn Street.
Shepherd Market
0.6 km
A Georgian village hidden in Mayfair's heart, where independent shops, art galleries and historic pubs preserve timeless London charm.
Glorious London Gift & Souvenir
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts that embody the spirit of London at Glorious London Gift & Souvenir, a must-visit shopping destination.
CLOSET CASE SOHO LONDON
0.7 km
Discover avant-garde menswear from global designers in Soho's vibrant heart – unique finds for the bold dresser at Closet Case.
Bond St
0.7 km
London's most exclusive luxury shopping street, where three centuries of elegance meet contemporary high fashion.
The LEGO® Store Leicester Square
0.7 km
Explore the world’s largest LEGO® Store in Leicester Square, London—two floors of interactive fun, iconic models, and endless creativity.
LONGCHAMP
0.7 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
M&M'S London
0.7 km
Experience the colorful world of M&M'S London, where candy dreams come true with personalized treats and vibrant merchandise.
The Queen's Shop
0.7 km
Exclusive royal gifts and British heritage souvenirs steps from Buckingham Palace, blending luxury, tradition, and timeless elegance in a charming London boutique.
Kingly Ct
0.7 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.7 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Machine-A
0.8 km
Small but influential Soho boutique showcasing curated avant‑garde and emerging fashion with gallery‑like presentation.
Cool Britania
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Below
0.4 km
Discover Below at HIDE, a hidden Mayfair cocktail bar offering expertly crafted seasonal drinks and rare spirits beneath a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Thin White Duke
0.7 km
Discover Soho’s intimate cocktail bar inspired by David Bowie, blending bespoke drinks, award-winning dim sum, and creative recording studios.
Disrepute - Soho
0.7 km
Descend into Soho's glamorous underworld at Disrepute, where 1960s scandal meets masterful cocktails in velvet-clad vaults—Soho's seductive late-night escape.
All Bar One Leicester Square
0.7 km
Stylish wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Leicester Square, perfect for socializing, dining, and private events in central London.
Duke of Argyll
0.7 km
Step into the Duke of Argyll for authentic Victorian pub charm, affordable ales, and a warm Soho atmosphere in central London.
Cahoots London
0.7 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
Adam & Eve
0.7 km
Classic Westminster pub pouring real ales and hearty grub amid historic streets—a cozy haven near Parliament and the Abbey for authentic London pints.
Two Chairmen
0.7 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty pies, fresh ales, and classic British cheer just steps from St. James's Park and Parliament.
Hampshire Restaurant and Bar
0.8 km
Intimate bar and restaurant serving vibrant Mexican and Peruvian cuisine in the heart of Leicester Square’s iconic theatre district.
Old Shades
0.8 km
Historic Whitehall pub pouring cask ales and pub classics since 1898, steps from Trafalgar Square—a true taste of London tradition.
Duke Of Wellington
0.8 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Village Soho
0.8 km
A lively, inclusive gay bar in Soho with energetic dance floors, go-go dancers, karaoke nights, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere.
Opium Cocktail Bar - Soho
0.8 km
Discover a hidden Soho speakeasy blending 1920s Shanghai charm with inventive cocktails and exquisite dim sum in London’s Chinatown.
Blue Boar Pub
0.8 km
Traditional Westminster pub serving hearty British classics in a cozy, historic setting near Abbey and Parliament—perfect for ales, roasts, and relaxed evenings.
The Spy Bar
0.8 km
Step into London’s secret subterranean bar where espionage history meets masterful cocktails and exclusive, no-photos privacy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scotch of St James
0.2 km
Legendary Mayfair speakeasy where 60s rock stars jammed and today's elite dance till dawn in velvet-clad intimacy.
Tabu London
0.3 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
The Cuckoo Club
0.4 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
0.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tiger Tiger London
0.6 km
Experience London’s iconic Haymarket nightclub with six vibrant rooms, lively DJs, and a dynamic party atmosphere just moments from Piccadilly Circus.
TSQ Club
0.6 km
Dive into Trafalgar Square's nightlife pulse at TSQ Club, where eclectic beats, dazzling lights, and craft cocktails fuel unforgettable weekend nights in London's heart.
Luxe Club
0.6 km
Experience London's vibrant nightlife at Luxe Club, a central hotspot for music, dancing, and late-night entertainment.
The Windmill Soho | Restaurant, Cabaret & Nightclub in Soho, London
0.7 km
Soho's legendary cabaret den revived: burlesque bites, theatrical feasts, and all-night beats in a historic hotspot of hedonism.
The Penthouse London
0.8 km
A compact, rooftop nightclub above Leicester Square — reached by a side lift, built for late‑night private parties and skyline glimpses.
Sophisticats Soho
0.8 km
An intimate, late‑night Soho gentlemen’s club on Brewer Street offering staged performances, VIP seating and an upmarket, discreet atmosphere.
Versity Camp Nightclub
0.8 km
Dive into Soho's beating heart at Versity Camp Nightclub, where thumping bass, inventive cocktails, and an electric crowd fuel unforgettable nights until dawn.
The Box Soho
0.8 km
A clandestine Soho cabaret where decadent staging, provocative shows and high‑end cocktails collide in an intense late‑night theatre.
Zoo Bar & Club
0.9 km
Dive into Leicester Square's edgy nightlife hub: two floors of R&B beats, sports screens, and wild energy until 3am at Zoo Bar & Club.
Sunset night club
0.9 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
St Moritz Club
1.0 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Boutique
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Minimalist Designs
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Business Friendly
