Clarks is a name that resonates with generations, known worldwide for quality footwear and a rich history that started right here in Street, Somerset. From childhood shoe fittings to selecting the perfect first pair for toddlers, Clarks has been a part of many family milestones.
This September, Street will proudly unveil the Shoemakers Museum, housed in the beautifully restored Grade II listed Grange building. This exciting new museum showcases decades of footwear history, attracting shoe enthusiasts, fashion lovers, and local residents alike.
The museum’s extensive refurbishment has overcome delays, and soon visitors will be welcomed into thoughtfully curated exhibition rooms and galleries. Somerset was once the heart of British footwear production, with Clarks — founded by a Quaker family — leading the charge.
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The story began with the first Brown Petersberg slippers created in Street in 1825. Over the years, C&J Clark factories expanded, and their shoes became iconic in British culture, from fit-for-purpose school shoes to the style staples on Northern Soul dancefloors and Britpop scenes.
Though manufacturing has moved overseas, Clarks’ headquarters remain in Street. The Alfred Gillett Trust, which now holds the collections, preserves a unique 200-year history of this local brand’s global influence.
The Clarks family’s deep commitment to community is evident in their support for education and social initiatives. In 1912, a grammar-style school was established on Elmhurst Road for workers’ children. The Strode Day Continuation School provided education for young employees aged 14-16, balancing study with work. The family also funded Street Library in 1925 and built a swimming pool in 1935, reflecting their longstanding dedication to community welfare.
The new Shoemakers Museum offers an extraordinary glimpse into this legacy, showcasing rare shoes and memorabilia from the Clarks family and business.
Opening daily from 10am to 5pm starting September 2025, the museum invites visitors to explore its galleries, relax at the café, or enjoy the peaceful gardens and orchard.
Tickets will be available for advance booking once the ticket office opens in September. Complimentary parking is provided in Clarks Village car park 2, making the visit convenient for all.