Leathersmith of London: 180 Years of British Craftsmanship

Some brands chase trends. Leathersmith of London has spent nearly two centuries doing the opposite. Founded in 1839 as T.J. & J. Smith, the house has been crafting fine leather-bound books and accessories for over 180 years - a heritage few brands can claim, and one that runs through every piece it makes today.

A tradition built by hand

In 1928, the house introduced its now-iconic Azure series: diaries and address books featuring distinctive English azure blue paper, gilt edges, and soft cross-grained Rutland leather — a combination that earned Leathersmith of London a worldwide reputation for quality. That same dedication to hand craftsmanship continues today: every diary, journal, and notebook is still hand-bound at the house's specialist bindery in South-East England, using techniques passed down through generations of British bookbinders.

Beyond the diary

While its leather-bound books remain the heart of the brand, Leathersmith of London has grown into a fuller lifestyle offering - clothing, knitwear, scarves, bags, and accessories, all sharing the same commitment to quality and timeless design. The palette of rich colours found in its scarves is designed to complement its diaries and notebooks, tying the collection together into a coherent, considered world.

Even the smallest details carry the brand's story: the Leathersmith Lion, its emblem, now appears embroidered and printed across bags and accessories - a quiet nod to the Britishness that has defined the house since 1839.

The newest chapter: writing instruments

Leathersmith of London has recently expanded into writing instruments - fountain pens and pens designed to sit alongside its diaries and notebooks as a complete set. It's a natural next step for a house built on the ritual of writing by hand, and a beautiful way to complete the desk-and-diary pairing the brand has always stood for.

In our store

It's this rare mix of heritage and quality that makes Leathersmith of London a firm favourite online and in our store - including with our own team. Discover the collection of diaries, notebooks, writing instruments, clothing, and accessories, each one made to be used, treasured, and passed down.