Berties of Bay

Berties of Bay is a distinctive British heritage clothing brand deeply rooted in the local heritage of Robin Hood's Bay. Their story began with Matthew, whose passion for the Yorkshire coastline's history inspired him to create a lifestyle store that celebrates and educates visitors about the region’s maritime past. With a background in garment design and manufacture, Matthew embarked on this journey by opening a small shop in Robin Hood's Bay, naming the business after his cat, Bertie, and setting out to offer unique products that evoke the charm of days gone by. The brand’s origins are marked by Matthew’s bold decision to leave the corporate world and invest his savings in this venture. From the outset, Berties of Bay focused on reviving traditional coastal garments, especially the iconic Fishermen’s Gansey. By collaborating with historians and locals whose families have lived along the British coastlines for generations, they brought authentic local patterns back to life, making these heritage pieces accessible and affordable. Their dedication to preserving these garments’ stories is reflected in their engaging blogs, which further connect customers with the brand’s rich cultural background. Over time, Berties of Bay has evolved into a much-loved heritage clothing brand with a growing international reach. Their garments have journeyed as far as the Arctic Circle, even featuring on movie sets, while their expanding social media presence has attracted followers worldwide. The brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity has also led to the opening of a larger flagship store in the heart of Robin Hood's Bay, complete with a workshop they call HQ, where Matthew continues to develop new heritage-inspired products. Berties of Bay’s expansion includes a second store located on the beach in the nearby hamlet of Sandsend and a network of independent stockists across the UK, as well as partners in Korea and Japan. This growth reflects their dedication to sharing British coastal heritage through clothing beyond their local community. Matthew expresses a warm invitation to customers, emphasising that they hope visitors will not only shop but also return year after year as friends. Their story captures a unique blend of local tradition, passion for heritage, and a commitment to craftsmanship, making Berties of Bay a special brand for those who appreciate authentic British coastal clothing steeped in history. For those interested in learning more about their journey, Berties of Bay also features a detailed Founder Series published by Unreal Rockstars, offering deeper insight into their remarkable story.