Why To Wear Watkinsons

For over 116 years Watkinsons has provided the nation with some of the finest footwear in Europe. Now in its fourth generation, we are one of the only independent shoe retailers in the United Kingdom. With our extensive range of ladies, men’s and childrens shoes there is something for everyone. Our Victorian- style shop in York, the brass shoe sign and the rocking horse for children are an established part of Yorkshire’s history. We have a family ethos and work to promote some of Europe’s most fashionable designs whilst supporting a local economy. Shopping at Watkinsons will enable you to walk out the door with feet that no one else has….

Who are we?

Albert Watkinson cycled to York from Suffolk to visit the countryside and opened a retail and repair shop. He outgrew his premises and quickly became one of York’s most prestigious shoe shops. The shop has been passed down by generations and has gone from strength to strength. Throughout the 60’s and 70’s, Bill Preece steered Watkinsons through challenging times. Jeffrey Preece is the fourth generation currently running Watkinsons. Today, in Goodramgate we stock over 14,000 pairs of shoes from Continental manufacturers and travel globally to ensure that we are finding the best possible shoes.

Reasons to Shop at Watkinsons

A Personalised Shopping Experience

Our employees are personally invested in the shoes they are selling and will go the extra mile for customers. Providing a bespoke fitting service, ensuring that a shoe is comfortable and stylish are some of the qualities our employees bring to every customer. Customer service is paramount at Watkinsons. Our employees have a passion for shoes alongside many years of shoe expertise and are trained in all shoe fields. Our childrens shoe service and appointments are extremely popular amongst parents!

Supporting Local Business

By supporting independent businesses like Watkinsons, you are also supporting the local economy and providing jobs. Small businesses are the largest employers nationally and strive to provide the best products possible!

Individual Styles

Our bespoke range of footwear is personally selected from manufacturers across American and Europe. We travel globally to ensure that we are selecting the most fashionable economical and sustainable footwear from all corners of the globe. Tucked away in York are some of the most influential shoes and trends. From classical style to Bohemian beach shoes, Watkinsons has something for everyone inside. We have a large selection of ladies, mens and childrens shoes.

Follow us on social media on Instagram and Facebook to see more Watkinsons stories, we like to use the hashtag #wearwatkinsons. Also if you subscribe to our newsletter you will receive 10% off your first pair of shoes! Welcome to Watkinsons!