James Smith & Sons is London’s oldest umbrella shop, established in 1830 by James Smith on Foubert’s Place in Soho. The business moved to its current location at 53 New Oxford Street in 1857, where it remains today. The shop is renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, offering handmade umbrellas and walking sticks. Its Victorian-era storefront, part of the Grade II-listed Hazelwood House, has remained largely unchanged since the 1870s, making it a cultural landmark in Central London. Notable customers have included Winston Churchill and Queen Victoria
The building is crowned by a monumental glass dome, originally designed in the 19th century, which features frescoes depicting global trade routes.