Our History
Established in 1827, Thomas Goode is a London institution, long recognised as a byword for opulent luxury and exquisite craftsmanship.
Thomas Goode have occupied 19 South Audley Street since 1845 and first opened their doors to Mayfair’s retail customers back in 1875. Designed by Ernest George, 19 South Audley Street was transformed into London’s foremost tableware emporium by Thomas Goode’s son, the enterprising William Goode, who travelled the world not just in search of the finest porcelain and bone china designs, but also providing a uniquely personal service to Europe’s great families; in the process endowing the business with a calibre of clientèle that endures to this day.
Thomas Goode is very proud of its long standing relationship with the British Royal Family which still continues today. In recent times Thomas Goode has provided bespoke china for Queen Elizabeth II and was commissioned in 1981 to create a dinner service as a gift to Their Royal Highnesses, the Prince and Princess of Wales on the occasion of their wedding.
“Thomas Goode is proud to have been granted Royal Warrants by both Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and HRH The Prince of Wales, and this continues an honour that was first bestowed on the business as far back as 1863.”
The History Of Thomas Goode
1827
Established in the heart of London's fashionable Mayfair district in 1827, Thomas Goode's company initially found its home on Mill Street. Demonstrating early signs of growth and ambition, the business relocated to the prestigious South Audley Street in 1844. This move to a more prominent address signaled the company's expanding influence and aspirations within the luxury retail market.
1830's
The company’s early clientele was a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship. Among its first distinguished patrons was the Hungarian aristocrat, Paul III Anton, Prince Esterházy. This early association with European nobility solidified the company’s reputation for producing exquisite goods and laid the groundwork for its future royal patronage.
1845
Occupied 19 South Audley Street, Mayfair. Designed by Ernest George, 19 South Audley Street was transformed into London's foremost tableware emporium by Thomas Goode's son, the enterprising William Goode, who travelled the world not just in search of the finest porcelain and bone china designs, but also providing a uniquely personal service to Europe's great families; in the process endowing the business with a calibre of clientèle that endures to this.
1858
On August 26, 1858, the company achieved a significant milestone by being granted Royal Warrants from both Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. This prestigious honor recognized the company's exceptional quality and reliability, solidifying its reputation as a purveyor to the British Royal Household. The Royal Warrants would have significantly elevated the company's standing and opened new avenues for growth and success.
1863
Thomas Good & Co. played a role in the royal wedding of the future King Edward VII by providing gifts for his marriage to Princess Alexandra of Denmark. This association with the royal family further elevated the company's reputation as a purveyor of luxury goods.
1878
In 1878, William embarked on a month-long visit to Russia, culminating in an audience with the Tsar. This diplomatic engagement proved instrumental for the company, as it led to Goode being awarded an imperial warrant in the following year, 1879. This prestigious honor recognized the company's standing and marked a significant milestone in its international expansion.
1879
Thomas Goode's global recognition began to flourish in the late 19th century. The company first showcased its wares at the 1879 Paris World Fair as part of the esteemed Minton company display. This provided a platform to introduce their exquisite products to an international audience. Recognizing the increasing prominence of their brand, Thomas Goode secured an independent stand at the subsequent Paris Exposition in 1889. This marked a significant milestone as the company stepped into the limelight as a standalone luxury retailer. To commemorate this pivotal event, the iconic china elephants were commissioned, becoming emblematic of the company's artistic prowess and innovative spirit.
1922
Thomas Goode was commissioned to create three miniature white porcelain dinner services for 'use' in the State Dining Room, The Nursery and The Kitchen for what is considered to be the "largest, most beautiful and most famous dolls' house in the world". The doll's house was a gift for HM Queen Mary, Queen Consort to HM King George V and grandmother of HM Queen Elizabeth II.
1939
An engraved glass tankard commemorating King George VI and Queen Elizabeth's visit to America on the Royal Tour of North America. George became first reigning monarch to ever visit the United States: an important event for marking the beginning of the "special relationship". This object commemorates a key moment Britain's history, when Churchill appealed to the United States for their support as the dark war clouds gathered over Western Europe. The strong sentiment that exists between the British monarchy and their popularity that continues to the present.
1981
Thomas Goode was commissioned to create a dinner service as a gift to Their Royal Highnesses, the Prince and Princess of Wales on the occasion of their wedding.