Norton & Townsend, the bespoke tailoring house known for its expertly crafted suits and personalised service, has relocated from Ben Rhydding to new premises on Little Lane in the heart of Ilkley.
Victoria Thompson, Managing Director [pictured below], bought Norton & Townsend from Austen Pickles while working as a merchandiser at Buxton Pickles in Ben Rhydding. She has since grown the business and overseen its move to the new boutique.
Speaking about the relocation, she says:
“Norton & Townsend is more than just a business, it is my passion. I have spent 20 years in the industry and I love helping people discover their personal style and perfect fit. And I am a total fabric geek.
"Our move to Little Lane feels like a natural step – I love Ilkley, and the people and the energy and the community of independent businesses here are amazing. Everyone wants to support each other, and we are very happy to be part of that.”
The boutique offers a welcoming space for clients seeking bespoke suits, with fittings available both in-store and through Norton & Townsend’s travelling tailor service, which brings the experience directly to homes and offices across the UK.
Norton & Townsend works directly with renowned mills including Abraham Moon in Guiseley, Marton Mills in Pool-in-Wharfedale, Holland & Sherry in London, and Dugdale Bros in Huddersfield. Clients can choose from more than 5,000 fabrics and linings, as well as hundreds of styling options, to create a fully personalised suit.
The company is also expanding into women’s tailoring, with Victoria explaining:
“It is not about putting a woman in a man’s suit – we are creating patterns, fabrics and styles that are something special and work with a woman’s shape. Bringing women’s bespoke tailoring to the north of England has been exciting, and we are seeing a lot of interest.”
Norton & Townsend combines traditional craftsmanship with personal service. Graham Hall, based in London, and Richard Jupp, the travelling tailor, bring decades of experience to the business, ensuring every suit is perfectly fitted and styled for each client.
Alongside bespoke suits, the boutique offers ready-to-wear pieces including jumpers, hats, and trench coats. Clients can also personalise linings and even include quotes inside.
The new Little Lane premises, close to Ilkley Cinema and Arcade Kitchens, reflect Norton & Townsend’s approach to tailoring, offering clients a relaxed, no-pressure consultation over a cup of coffee. Walk-ins are welcome.
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