The Ilkley Shoe Company: Half a century of craftsmanship, built from the workshop up
Long before The Ilkley Shoe Company became a destination for premium British footwear, it earned its reputation repairing and restoring people’s footwear.
With more than 50 years of experience restoring well-made shoes, the team has developed an intimate understanding of traditional shoemaking. From replacing full leather soles to fitting hard-wearing Dainite soles, they have repaired thousands of cherished pairs, giving customers' favourite shoes a new lease of life. That hands-on expertise remains at the heart of the business today, with customers still able to send photographs of their footwear for an expert assessment and repair quote.
From repair bench to retail
After decades spent caring for fine footwear, the business took its next step in 2011 by opening a retail store. Rather than simply selling shoes, The Ilkley Shoe Company chose to stock the very brands it had come to admire through years of meticulous repair work.
Whether you’re looking for a fine pair of brogues, a stylish dress shoe or well-crafted and comfortable trainer, then this is the place.
Its collection began with renowned Northampton shoemakers including Loake, Barker, Cheaney and Tricker's – names synonymous with British craftsmanship and generations of shoemaking heritage. The range later expanded to include Jeffery West, a brand known for combining traditional construction with contemporary styling, bold colours and distinctive designs across shoes, boots and exceptionally comfortable trainers.
The company has since broadened its offering for women, introducing collections from top names including Fly London and the Italian brand Bagatt, alongside Blowfish vegan sandals.
Shop the sale
The summer sale is now on offering up to 50% off across the store covering some shoes, especially last in line items.
Paul Craggs, store owner, said: “We have been here for nearly 20 years. In that time we have doubled the space in the store and offer three times the number of products that we did.
“We look forward to carrying on welcoming happy customers through our doors.”
Expanding into leather goods
As demand grew for premium leather accessories, The Ilkley Shoe Company found itself exploring another area of craftsmanship: leather jackets.
It stocks quality leatherwear including European brands Oakwood and Trapper. Crafted from soft nappa leather and available in styles ranging from lightweight summer pieces to insulated winter jackets, the range reflects the same emphasis on quality, durability and timeless design that has defined the company's footwear selection.
And to complete the look there is a selection of leather gloves for men and women, leather hand bags and holdalls ideal for a stylish weekend away, wallets, notebooks and more.
Accessories
The store also stocks a range of accessories to keep your leather shoes, jackets and bags in tip-top condition. From suede brushes to waterproof sprays, the shop not only stocks quality products but can give you the best advice and guidance thanks to their expertise.
Today, whether repairing a treasured pair of shoes or helping customers invest in their next pair – or a beautifully crafted leather jacket – The Ilkley Shoe Company continues to build its reputation on experience, authenticity and a genuine appreciation for fine craftsmanship.
Quality products and customer service
Decades of providing people with the perfect fit and restoring and repairing their treasured footwear means a lot to the Paul and his staff. Customer service here is second-to-none and they always strive to ensure that every customer walks out of the shop in style – with the perfect pair of shoes for their feet and their fancy!
Check out the website here or call into the shop on The Grove Promenade, Ilkley. Shoes can be sent to Ilkley Shoe Company for repair and can be bought online and sent out across the UK.