Arthur Beale are one of the United Kingdoms oldest chandlers, tracing our history back 500 years. We have supplied all sorts of exciting expeditions in our long history, including early Everest and Arctic Expeditions for Ernest Shackleton, Gino Watkins and many more. We pride ourselves on our passion and dedication for high quality kit for every adventure. We are a small independent business made up of real people passionate about sailing, adventure and sustainability. We take inspiration from our past, whilst always looking to the future to make sure we have the environment and sustainability at the forefront of our business. We use the traditional manufacturing techniques we have used for centuries to guide us, focusing on local, natural & high quality materials which will stand the test of time. Our Story Grace’s Guide to British Industry says that Arthur Beale was established as a rope maker called John Buckinghams circa 1500. Our Sign says “Established 400 years” but the sign is 60 years old! We have never moved from our current spot but in those days the Parish of St Giles area was surrounded by fields, possibly growing the flax we used to make our rope. The Church of St Giles in the Fields still stands across the road. John Buckingham not only made rope and twine but sacks and mats too. The town of London gradually encroached on St Giles and the company needed more space to meet the demand so they set up other rope walks in Islington and also on the banks of the Fleet in Kentish Town. In 1864 the Alpine Club of Great Britain being distressed by various climbing rope failures decided to set up a committee to carry out strength tests. Out of all the ropes they tested only three met their standard