James Taylor & Son 4 Paddington Street, London W1U 5QE

"Good day, I stopped into this shoe shop as I appeared very professional. I was greeted with such an unwelcome reserve with the least desire to assist in a simple sticky sole added to a new shoe to prevent slipping. After years in a pandemic, we have all suffered. I recommend you adjust your attitude to welcome new customers with a friendly, helpful decorum. Thank you."

"I’m writing this review based on my customer service I experienced over the phone and in person. I went in to the store about over a year ago asking to get a shoe repaired I was automatically dismissed by the person on reception without any explanation. I called again today thought I’d give this place another try and I am always in favour of supporting my local community of where I live. I asked how much it would cost to get a shoe made and the process the person explained the process however when giving me the price I was told it was £3000 plus VAT which is also fine. However the person laughing over the phone and the laughing clearly was indicative that they believe I can’t afford there shoes. I would caution from now on entering this shop it doesn’t matter how many letters you receive from a queen or royalty recommending your services if you don’t have manners you don’t have manners or respect for people period!!! I know James Taylor & son will probably have Amnesia and won’t remember talking to me but sadly I had to put my experience out there since its still valid even if I haven’t purchased an item the way I was treated when asking for a consultation is unacceptable. Edit: so see the message and the response from the owner they think it’s perfectly acceptable to laugh at people over the phone. I mean that has no hidden connotation at it only says you aren’t good enough for our store. I thought James Taylor and son would do better and apologise."

"Re-sole / re-heel of two pairs of John Lobb's (one boot and one oxford) and the repair of ladies boots. They did a magnificent job, the shoes and boots look like new again, and will give many more years of use. So much better to repair and re-use rather than consume again - a sustainable and cost-effective option for quality shoes."

"This shop used to provide wonderful customer service (goodness, I even once got a discount for being called James Taylor!) but my experience this week was appalling. I wanted them to re-sole my Alden boots but, because they have crepe soles, it seems that's difficult. Instead of an explanation or suggestion, the assistant simply repeated: "No, not possible." I asked in several different ways what she might suggest, but still got the same response: "No, because it's not possible." Eventually I got a curt, "Why don't you just send them back to the factory?" So very disappointing, I shall not be returning."

"Did a great job on a pair of custom Oxfords. Perfect fit for my large feet which means no more pain for my toes. They also used a plastic tong for support instead of the usual steel - a major plus if you have to go through airport security regularly. I don't understand the slightly Xenophobic review complaining about "foreign staff". These are serious craftsmen who have done real apprenticeships - it's getting rare to find British craftsmen who have the skills needed to do a decent job. Maybe the gentleman in question should travel a little more widely if he struggles with accents."