Few things are as quintessentially British as a pair of rain boots (wellies, as they’re known across the pond) and a pair of Church’s shoes.

Celebrating its distinctly British spirit, Church’s brought together friends of the brand for Church’s Club, an evening at The Hart in London dedicated to the world of Chelsea boots, Oxfords, and the master craftsmanship that lies behind every pair.

And where better to celebrate a quintessentially British brand than in a pub? Surrounded by polished leather, low lighting and chessboards, with the promise of a proper English drink, The Hart, nestled in the heart of Marylebone, provided the perfect setting for an evening of conviviality and considered style. 

Among those in attendance were Alexa Chung, the golden child of British style, Lennon Gallagher, Charithra Chandra, Mia Reagan, Thomas Meacock and Camille Charrière. Church’s captured something central to British culture: the art of bringing people from all walks of life together. 

With its roots firmly planted in Northampton, where the brand’s manufacturing operations remain, Church’s also paid homage to the heritage of its home country. A defining symbol of Northamptonshire, the rose, or “ The Rose of the Shires,” took center stage, offering a floral tribute to the region that has shaped the brand’s identity since 1617. 

The botanical theme extended to the evening’s Gin Bar Experience, where guests sampled a selection of English gins and cocktails, created especially for the occasion. Infused with botanical notes, fresh herbs, juniper berries and rose petals, the drinks offered a distinctly British take on the classic pub ritual. 

Three varieties of the rose—New Dawn, Sea Foam and Créme de La Créme—were presented throughout the evening, with guests invited to select seeds to take home. A gesture that offered a little piece of Northamptonshire to nurture long after the night had ended. 

A meeting of heritage and modernity, the evening also offered a closer look at Church’s New Formal collection for men and the Sloane collection for women. For men, the Stanhope reimagined the classic Chelsea boot, while the Skipton offered a refined interpretation of the Oxford. 

For women, the Sloane collection brought together retro references and understated poise. Styles such as the Sienna and Suzanne struck a balance between character and refinement, while the Susan ankle boot offered a clean, elegant line, elevated by the lustre of polished calf leather. 

Providing the soundtrack to the evening was Leed-born, London-based DJ Bradley Zero. Through craftsmanship, community and a distinctly British sense of occasion, Church’s sought to make its heritage more than a story to be told; it was something to be experienced. 

Because, in the end, Britishness is as much about a feeling as it is about a place. And among good friends, a proper pub and shoes made to stand the test of time, Church’s found a fitting way to celebrate both.