Article: Christmas Gifts for Grandad: A Handmade London Umbrella
Christmas Gifts for Grandad: A Handmade London Umbrella
Grandfathers are often the hardest people to buy for. Many have spent a lifetime gathering what they need, and say, quite sincerely, that they want nothing at all. The gifts that last tend to be the ones that are useful every day, well made, and quietly a little better than anything they would have bought for themselves.
A handmade umbrella is such a gift. It will be carried to the shops, to lunch with the family and on grey morning walks for years to come. This guide explains how to choose one for him, how it arrives, and when to order for Christmas.
Why an Umbrella Makes a Fitting Gift for Grandad
A good umbrella has long been part of dressing properly: furled neatly, hung over the arm, and kept for years rather than replaced each winter. A traditional full-length umbrella with a curved wooden handle belongs to that tradition, and it is a gift a grandfather is likely to recognise and value at once.
It is also a gift that is used rather than put away. Each time he takes it from the stand by the door, it is a small reminder of who gave it to him.
The Bucklesbury London Umbrella: One Length of English Chestnut
For a grandfather who appreciates craftsmanship, the Bucklesbury London Umbrella is the most traditional choice. Its handle and shaft are one continuous length of English chestnut, with no joint between them, so the grain runs unbroken from the handle into the shaft. The canopy is made from Japanese-engineered fabric, and each umbrella is individually finished by a craftsman. It is available in Black, Dark Green and French Navy.
The Bucklesbury Classic Umbrella: Light and Easy to Carry
The Bucklesbury Classic Umbrella is built on a shaft of solid English beechwood, with a canopy 106 cm across, which gives generous cover. It is about 91 cm long and weighs about 0.5 kg, so it sits comfortably over the arm on a long walk or a trip into town. Black is the most versatile colour; Navy Blue and Green are equally traditional, and suit tweed, waxed jackets and overcoats alike.
For the Grandfather Who Still Travels
If he spends much of his time visiting family or travelling, the Bucklesbury Telescopic Umbrella may suit him better. It folds to 45 cm, opens automatically and has a canopy 102 cm across, so it can be kept in a bag or in the car, ready for the day the forecast is wrong.
Choosing the Right Umbrella for Him
- For tradition: the Bucklesbury London Umbrella, handle and shaft in one length of English chestnut.
- For everyday walks: the Bucklesbury Classic Umbrella, about 0.5 kg, with a 106 cm canopy.
- For travel: the Bucklesbury Telescopic Umbrella, 45 cm when folded.
- For colour: black or navy for town; green for the country.
Our size guide compares the lengths and canopies side by side.
A Gift from the Whole Family
A handmade umbrella is a natural gift for a family to give together, from children and grandchildren alike. When ordering, a few words can be added in the optional gift note on the product page.
Presented and Ready to Give
Each umbrella is dispatched in 2–3 working days in a cotton cover and a Bucklesbury presentation box. UK delivery is free, and DHL Express delivers worldwide, so it can be sent directly to a grandfather who lives some distance away.
Looking After It
A wooden umbrella asks for very little. Leave it open to dry after use, never store it wet or creased, keep it away from radiators and clean the canopy with plain water only. It is made to be carried rather than leaned on, so it should not be used as a walking stick. Our Umbrella Care page has the full notes.
When to Order for Christmas
For delivery before Christmas, order by 16 December in the UK, 11 December for Europe, 10 December for the USA and Canada, and 3 December for the rest of the world.
Made in London
Each Bucklesbury umbrella is constructed by hand in London, in small batches, with umbrella-making heritage dating back to 1805, and carries our Rain Tested In England™ trademark. It appeals to anyone who values its design and craftsmanship, and it is made to be carried for many years. For more gift ideas, see a gift for Dad he will use every day and our guide to Christmas gifts for Dad.
