Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we are asked most often about Bucklesbury umbrellas, delivery and returns. If your question is not here, please contact us.

The umbrellas

Where are Bucklesbury umbrellas made?

Every Bucklesbury umbrella is constructed by hand in London using traditional techniques, in small batches in a traditional London workshop, and individually finished by a craftsman. Our umbrella-making heritage dates back to 1805.

What are they made from?

All our wood is English, from sustainable forests. The canopy is Japanese-engineered canopy fabric and the handles of the Classic and Telescopic umbrellas are made in Germany. The Classic Umbrella has a solid English beechwood shaft; the London Umbrella's handle and shaft are one continuous length of English chestnut, and the London Ladies Umbrella's are one continuous length of English maple.

What is the difference between the London, Classic and Telescopic umbrellas?

The London Umbrella (£255) is made from a single length of wood, with no joint between handle and shaft. The Classic Umbrella (£175) is a full-length umbrella on a solid English beechwood shaft, about 91 cm long with a canopy 106 cm across. The Telescopic Umbrella (£135) folds to 45 cm, opens automatically and has a canopy 102 cm across. See our size guide and our guide to the woods.

What does Rain Tested In England™ mean?

Every Bucklesbury umbrella is opened, checked and rain tested before it leaves us. Rain Tested In England™ is our trademark.

Do you make a ladies' umbrella?

Yes. The London Ladies Umbrella is made from one continuous length of English maple (£255). All our Classic and Telescopic umbrellas are suitable for men and women.

Do you make wedding umbrellas?

Yes: the Classic Ivory White Wedding Umbrella (£175) and the London Wedding Umbrella in Ivory White (£255). See our wedding umbrellas.

How should I care for my umbrella?

Leave it open to dry after use, never store it wet or creased, keep it away from radiators, and clean it with plain water only. Our umbrella care page has the full advice.

Ordering and delivery

How quickly will my umbrella be dispatched?

In-stock umbrellas are dispatched from London, usually within 2–3 working days of your order. All parcels are tracked and must be signed for.

Do you deliver worldwide?

Yes. UK delivery is free, and we deliver worldwide by DHL Express. You can pay in your own currency.

Will I pay import duties?

UK prices include VAT. For Germany, prices include VAT and import duties, and US orders are delivered Duties Paid, so there is nothing more to pay on delivery. Other countries are sent Delivered At Place, so local duties and taxes may be charged on delivery. Full details are on our delivery and returns page.

What is a pre-order?

Umbrellas marked Pre-order are being made in our next small batch. Your umbrella is dispatched by the date shown on the product page and in your order confirmation, and you can cancel a pre-order at any time before it is dispatched for a full refund.

When should I order for Christmas?

Please order by Wednesday 16 December for UK delivery, Friday 11 December for Europe, Thursday 10 December for the USA and Canada, and Thursday 3 December for the rest of the world.

Is it suitable as a gift?

Every umbrella is dispatched in a cotton cover and a Bucklesbury presentation box. If you would prefer plain packaging, please tell us in the order notes. See our gift ideas.

Can I return an umbrella?

Yes. Please return it unused, in its original packaging and with proof of purchase, within 14 days of delivery for a refund or exchange. Umbrellas bought between 1 and 25 December can be returned until 31 January. See our delivery and returns page.

How can I contact Bucklesbury?

Through our contact page. Bucklesbury, 77 Marsh Wall, London E14 9SH.