Museum has its feet planted in the proud past of shoemaking

A ‘landmark cultural destination’ has opened at Somerset's Clarks Village.

- ANNETTE BELCHER [e-mail]

Last week marked the official opening of Shoemakers Museum - ‘a bold and beautifully designed new cultural landmark’ ‘nestled in the heart of the outlet shopping village in Street.

Launched to mark the 200th anniversary of Clarks, the museum celebrates the evolution of shoemaking, style and identity - not just as a product, but as a reflection of British life, global influence and local pride.

Set across four immersive galleries, this permanent new museum invites visitors to explore the journey of one of the UK’s most iconic brands - from its Quaker beginnings in Somerset to global runways and subcultural icons. Sheepskin slippers, desert boots, Britpop stagewear and school shoes share space with rarely seen archival materials, promotional films and prototypes - bringing to life 200 years of innovation, nostalgia and design.

Yet the museum tells a story far greater than the sum of its exhibits. As Rosie Martin, Director of Shoemakers Museum, said: “This is a museum about people - their craft, their community and the shoes that became part of life's biggest milestones. Whether you remember your first pair of Clarks or you're discovering the story for the first time, this is a space for connection, creativity and collective memory”

Behind this nationally significant project is a quietly powerful story of local ingenuity. Shoemakers Museum was built not only in Somerset but by Somerset - with a team of local contractors, designers and engineers coming together to shape its striking new home.