What is Peregrine Clothing?
Peregrine Clothing is a historic British heritage brand specializing in 100% UK-manufactured knitwear and outerwear. Known for using high-quality British wool and traditional waxed cotton, they blend classic country aesthetics with modern, functional designs.
Quick Facts: Peregrine Clothing at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Brand Name | Peregrine Clothing (J.G. Glover & Co) |
| Founded Year | 1796 |
| Founder | Thomas Glover |
| Headquarters | Bristol (Design) & Manchester (Manufacturing), UK |
| Industry | Heritage Fashion & Knitwear |
| Product Categories | Jumpers, Waxed Jackets, Overshirts, Beanies, Socks |
| Official Website | www.peregrineclothing.co.uk |
The Story: Eight Generations of British Knitting
Very few brands can say they’ve been around since the 1700s, but Peregrine is one of them. It all started in 1796 when a man named Thomas Glover began knitting hosiery in Leicestershire. Back then, everything was done by hand, and the business slowly grew into a staple of British manufacturing.
Fast forward over 225 years, and the brand is still owned and run by the same family. Today, Tom Glover (the 8th generation!) leads the company. He’s the one who took the traditional “workhorse” jumpers of his ancestors and turned them into the stylish, high-end pieces you see today.
What I find most impressive is their loyalty to the UK. While most brands moved their factories overseas to save money, Peregrine stayed. They have their own factory in Manchester, meaning they control every stitch. They aren’t just “designed in Britain”—they are truly made here.
What They Do Best: Top Products
If you’re looking at Peregrine, you’re likely looking for something that will keep you warm for the next decade. Here are their heavy hitters:
The Hudson Jumper: This is their “icon.” It’s a thick, 100% British wool sweater with a signature textured knit. It’s heavy, warm, and looks just as good in a London pub as it does on a hike in the Highlands.
Waxed Cotton Jackets: They use fabric from British Millerain (the gold standard for wax). Their jackets are often a bit slimmer and more “city-friendly” than a traditional Barbour, making them great for everyday wear.
The Bexley Jacket: A versatile, mid-weight waxed jacket that has become a cult favorite for its rugged but tailored look.
Regenerative Wool Collection: A newer move toward sustainability, using wool from UK farms that focus on soil health and eco-friendly farming.
Product Categories
Peregrine has expanded quite a bit recently. While knitwear is their soul, they now offer:
- Menswear: Heavy jumpers, cardigans, shirts, and technical outerwear.
- Womenswear: Feminine takes on their classic knits, capes, and weather-proof coats.
- Accessories: Thick wool beanies, boot socks, and scarves that make perfect gifts.
- Soft Tailoring: Thinner knit polos and shirts for a smarter look.
The Real User Experience (Pros & Cons)
I’ve looked through a lot of feedback from long-term owners. Here is the honest breakdown of what people love and what they complain about.
What people love:
- The “Weight”: You can feel the quality immediately. Their wool isn’t thin or flimsy; it has a reassuring heaviness.
- Traceability: People love knowing exactly which factory their clothes came from.
- The Fit: Unlike some “heritage” brands that fit like a box, Peregrine usually has a more modern, slightly tapered cut.
What to watch out for:
- The “Wool Itch”: Because they use authentic British wool (which is tougher than delicate Merino), some people find the jumpers a bit scratchy if they don’t wear a shirt underneath.
- Pilling: Like all high-quality natural wool, some “bobbling” or pilling can happen in high-friction areas. You’ll need a wool comb to keep it looking fresh.
- Price: It’s an investment. You are paying for UK wages and premium materials, so expect to pay £100+ for a solid jumper.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy It?
Buy Peregrine if: You want a “forever” piece. If you’re building a capsule wardrobe and want a jumper or jacket that looks better the more you wear it, this is a top-tier choice.
Skip Peregrine if: You have very sensitive skin (the wool can be rugged) or if you prefer ultra-lightweight, synthetic “fast fashion.”
In my opinion, it is absolutely worth it. You’re supporting a 200-year-old family legacy and getting a garment that hasn’t traveled halfway around the world before reaching your door.
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FAQs
1. Is Peregrine Clothing still made in England?
Yes, 100%. Their main factory is located in Manchester, and their design team is based in Bristol.
2. How does Peregrine compare to Barbour?
Peregrine is generally more “knitwear-focused” and has a slightly more contemporary, slim fit. While Barbour is the king of wax, Peregrine offers a more “boutique” feel with a heavier emphasis on UK-sourced wool.
3. Does their wool shrink in the wash?
Yes, if you aren’t careful! You should always hand wash their wool pieces in cold water or use a very specific “hand wash” setting on your machine. Never tumble dry.
4. Is the wool ethically sourced?
Yes. They use British wool and have recently launched a “Regenerative Wool” line to ensure the farming practices help the environment.
5. Do they offer international shipping?
They do! They have a large following in the USA, Japan, and Europe, and they ship globally from their UK warehouse.