John Smedley

John Smedley is the world's oldest continuously operating knitwear factory, founded in 1784 at Lea Mills in the Derbyshire Dales by John Smedley senior and Peter Nightingale. The factory, now a World Heritage Site set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, has been producing exceptional knitwear for over 240 years, making it a remarkable example of British manufacturing heritage. What began producing simple muslin fabric evolved into creating the original 'Long Johns' in 1825 using early fully-fashioned knitting machines. By the mid-20th century, John Smedley knitwear was worn by cultural icons including Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and The Beatles. Today, the company remains family-run, managed by Ian Maclean, an eighth-generation member of the Smedley family. John Smedley holds two Royal Warrants and exports to over 30 countries, with Japan being its largest international market. The brand specialises in exquisite fine-gauge knitwear crafted from the finest merino wool, Sea Island cotton, and cashmere.