About Us

Renowned for offering a selection of the finest quality traditional clothing for over a century, R. Scott & Co. provides a wealth of knowledge and experience for all who appreciate courtesy and old-fashioned service.

Our shop is located in the centre of Cirencester, at the heart of the Cotswolds. We are proud to be one of the oldest independent retailers in the town, having passed down through four generations of the same family.

Throughout the years, excellent customer service has been paramount. We are always happy to help source specific clothing for a customer and organise for any necessary adjustments, alterations or repairs to clothing and footwear.

While the range and styles of clothing offered in our shop has grown and evolved, the brands we stock are still carefully chosen offer the highest quality and best value.

Several brands have been stocked in store for decades, including our range of Barbour outdoor wear, which has now expanded to offer shirts, shoes, and more for both gentlemen and ladies.

We are also pleased to introduce J.T.Ascott, with a range of modern fit summer shirts, and cotton jumpers. Do visit us in store to view and try our full range of products, or contact us for more information.

Thank you for your support, it means a lot to us.

Our History

The rich family history of R. Scott & Co. adds a unique charm and character to the shop. Images of Cirencester dating back over 100 years are hung on the walls. The traditional wooden furniture has been collected over decades, several pieces are from other independent, local shops that were forced to close or modernise their interiors over the years.

When R. Scott & Co. first opened their doors in 1905, they probably sold a lot of stout socks, gaiters and scratchy tweeds. Today, there is an extensive range of classic country clothing for men in both casual and formal styles, with a growing selection of ladieswear.

Frank James Wylde (1885–1962)

Frank left school at the age of 13 to become an apprentice with a wholesaler in the Midlands. The company owned six outlets, including a shop in Cirencester, of which he eventually became manager. When the company fell into financial problems and needed to sell their store, Frank saw an opportunity. Borrowing money from family members he bought the premises and the business.

R. Scott & Co. was opened in 1905. At this time, the shop was selling utilitarian clothes, such as everyday workwear and overalls, as well as boots and Sunday best suits.

Under his management the shop flourished, and in the 1950’s he purchased the adjacent building to extend his business and increase the range of clothing to match the competitors of similar stores in Cheltenham, Oxford and Bath.

Leslie Frank Wylde (1914 – 2007)

Frank’s son Leslie began working in the family business as a teenager, eventually taking full control and forging ahead with leading brands and the motto ‘We must always provide excellent customer service’.

James Edward Balmer (1943 – 2011)

Leslie’s nephew James joined the firm in 1963, becoming head of the business in the 1990’s. He saw further improvements and expansion to the building, increasing space for customers and further expanding the range of clothing. R. Scott & Co. became the niche retailer it remains today, stocking quality country clothes, including tweeds, cords, Barbours and English, handmade shoes.

Charlotte Louise Balmer (Present)

The family business passed to James’ daughters in 2011. When the opportunity arose, Charlotte took full control of the company, just days before the birth of her first son. She is now developing the business to meet current challenges and face the demands of the 21^st century. Guided by the words and example set by her father and great uncle, she is looking forward to the future of this independent, family-run shop.