Lock & Co. Hatters – London’s Oldest Hat Shop
Step into the world’s oldest hat shop, where Nelson’s bicorne and the bowler hat were born, and British sartorial history lives on in every stitch.
Step into Lock & Co. Hatters at 6 St James’s Street, London’s oldest hat shop, established in 1676. This Grade II* listed family-run business has crafted headwear for Lord Nelson, Winston Churchill, and royalty. Famous for creating the bowler hat and supplying iconic bicorne hats, it remains a bastion of British sartorial tradition. Inside, discover centuries of craftsmanship, royal warrants, and a heritage room filled with historic hats and crown linings. A visit here is a journey through fashion, history, and timeless style.
A brief summary to Lock & Co. Hatters
- 6 St James's St, London, SW1A 1EF, GB
- +442079308874
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Luxury
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit mid-week to avoid the busiest shopping hours and enjoy a more relaxed experience browsing the collection.
- Ask to see the heritage room if it’s accessible; it offers a fascinating glimpse into the shop’s history and famous clients.
- If you’re considering a hat purchase, allow time for a proper fitting – the hatters use traditional methods to ensure the perfect fit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Lock & Co. Hatters location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lock & Co. Hatters
Britain’s Oldest Hat Shop
Nestled at 6 St James’s Street, Lock & Co. Hatters proudly holds the title of the world’s oldest hat shop, founded in 1676. What began as a milliner’s shop has evolved into a legendary institution, serving generations of London’s elite and global figures. The shop has remained in the same location since 1765, its elegant 18th-century frontage concealing a treasure trove of hat-making history. As a Grade II* listed building, it is not only a working shop but also a protected piece of London’s architectural and commercial heritage. Inside, the atmosphere is one of quiet refinement: polished wood, glass cases of exquisite hats, and the faint scent of fine felt and leather. This is not a museum, but a living workshop where skilled hatters still measure heads with traditional conformateurs and hand-finish each hat with meticulous care. The green front door at No. 6 has welcomed everyone from naval heroes to prime ministers, and today it opens to anyone seeking a piece of enduring British style.Icons Worn and Created Here
The shop’s legacy is written in the hats that have left its doors. Admiral Lord Nelson famously wore a Lock & Co. bicorne into the Battle of Trafalgar, a hat that became an enduring symbol of naval command. In 1849, the company created the Coke hat for gamekeeper Edward Coke – a low, sturdy dome designed to withstand low branches. Commissioned from London hat-makers William and Thomas Bowler, this design became the world-famous bowler hat, later adopted by Charlie Chaplin and countless others as a quintessential British icon. Winston Churchill made Lock & Co. hats part of his personal brand, regularly wearing their Cambridge and Homburg styles. The shop’s heritage room preserves hats made for films like *The Darkest Hour*, as well as historic records such as the Coronation Crown Ledger, which documents the purchase of purple velvet and ermine to reline the St Edward’s and Imperial State Crowns for Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. These details connect the shop not just to fashion, but to pivotal moments in British history.A Living Heritage of Craft
Lock & Co. is more than a retailer; it is a custodian of centuries-old hat-making skills. Each hat is carefully hand-prepared in the London shop, with attention to fit, fabric, and finish. The conformateur, a traditional head-measuring device, ensures a perfect fit for top hats, bowlers, and panamas alike. The shop works with the finest felts, tweeds, cashmere, and cloths sourced from around the world, blending traditional techniques with modern design. The business has been family-run for generations, with the Lock family and later the Lock & Stephenson family maintaining continuity since the 18th century. Today, the seventh generation continues to uphold the principles of quality, service, and craftsmanship established by James Lock. Two royal warrants – one from the Duke of Edinburgh and a renewed warrant from King Charles III – attest to the enduring trust placed in Lock & Co. by the British royal household.What to See and Experience
Visitors are invited to step inside and browse a curated collection of men’s and women’s hats, from classic top hats and bowlers to modern caps and panamas. The shop’s interior is a blend of historic charm and contemporary elegance, with displays that celebrate both the craft and the famous wearers. The heritage room offers a glimpse into the shop’s storied past, with historic hats, film props, and archival materials that bring three and a half centuries of hat-making to life. Whether you are looking to purchase a hat, admire the craftsmanship, or simply soak in the atmosphere of one of London’s oldest shops, Lock & Co. offers a unique experience. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate, happy to discuss hat styles, fit, and history. It is a place where tradition meets personal service, and where every hat carries a sense of legacy and care.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
0.2 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
0.3 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.
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.
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.
Buckingham Palace
0.5 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
0.0 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.
Lancaster House
0.2 km
Lancaster House: London’s neoclassical masterpiece blending royal history, political heritage, and elegant government hospitality near Buckingham Palace.
Piccadilly Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Piccadilly Arcade, a refined Edwardian shopping haven blending heritage tailoring, unique boutiques, and timeless London charm.
Charles De Gaulle Statue
0.3 km
A dignified tribute in London’s Carlton Gardens honoring Charles de Gaulle’s leadership of Free France during WWII.
Pall Mall
0.3 km
Pall Mall: London’s historic street of royal games, elegant clubs, and pioneering urban charm.
Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk
0.3 km
A serene 7-mile circular walk through London's Royal Parks, honoring Princess Diana’s life, legacy, and connection to iconic royal landmarks.
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.
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
0.2 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.
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.
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.
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
0.8 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.
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.
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.
LONGCHAMP
0.7 km
Discover French luxury and craftsmanship at Longchamp’s elegant Bond Street boutique in London’s exclusive Mayfair district.
Hard Rock London Rock Shop
0.8 km
Discover exclusive rock ’n’ roll merchandise and iconic memorabilia at London’s legendary Hard Rock Rock Shop on Old Park Lane.
Kingly Ct
0.8 km
A vibrant three-storey courtyard in Soho offering eclectic global dining and unique shops in a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Cool Britania
0.8 km
Discover authentic British souvenirs and capture timeless memories at Cool Britannia, Leicester Square’s premier gift and photography shop.
Crest of London Ltd
0.8 km
Discover authentic London souvenirs and local crafts at Crest of London Ltd, your premier gift shop in historic Whitehall.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cahoots London
0.8 km
Step into a 1940s London underground tube station and enjoy creative cocktails in a vibrant, theatrical vintage setting.
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.
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.
Duke Of Wellington
0.8 km
A lively Soho pub blending traditional British charm with modern nightlife energy on Wardour Street.
Westminster Arms
0.8 km
Historic Westminster pub with parliamentary division bell, Shepherd Neame ales, and cozy alcoves steps from Abbey and Parliament—timeless British charm in political heart.
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.
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
0.5 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.
Heaven
1.0 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Boutique
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
