A Watkinson

For over a 100 years (since 1904), Watkinsons name has been synonymous with Footwear Retailing in York. Now in its Fourth Generation we are proud to be an independent, family run British Establishment whose ethos is quality, service, value for money and attention to detail.

The story akin to the Elf and the Shoe Maker goes like this; Albert Watkinson (Master Bootmaker) cycled to York from Suffolk visited Castle Howard, liked it and decided to settle in York. He opened a small retail and repair shop in Gillygate but quickly out grew this premises and moved to the original Shoe Shop - No 2 Bootham. Since then Watkinsons have traded from various sites within the city, purchasing properties alongside retailing shoes.

Our identity is a Victorian style arcaded shop window, together with our black and gold corporate colours and scroll emblem consisting of Albert Watkinsons original signature.