Our Story
Since opening the first store in York in 1890, we have been running an independent family-owned department store for over 130 years.
Expanding into other locations; Helmsley, Beverley and Gainsborough, Browns have created an experience within their stores, where a stunning selection of products and services are on offer within one concept.
Our founder Alderman Henry Rhodes Brown twice became Lord Mayor of York in 1913 & 1932, declaring Skeldergate Bridge free of tolls on April 1st, 1914.
In 1990 we changed our name from W.P Brown to Browns as it still is today. This then followed with expansion into other areas, with the opening of the Helmsley Store in 1992, Beverley Store in 2010 & the Gainsborough Store in 2012.
Browns York
paul charlson (Intoskin)
19:59 14 Jan 22
exemplary service. I have recently purchased a mattress from Browns of York. There was plenty of choice in store with friendly helpful staff. On ordering, I was expecting a delivery time of many weeks. Browns has the mattress available within a few days. They offered free delivery and turned up half an hour earlier than scheduled. Polite/prompt/ efficient
Tracy McQuillan
20:51 08 Jan 22
Great department store. Has an old fashioned feel, but up to date products. Excellent.
Ann Attwell
13:30 06 Aug 21
We went to the restaurant and had the most scrumptious strawberry tart. Pot of tea came with extra hot water. Lovely!
Carol “Dora5”
10:18 26 Jul 21
What shopping should be. Forget Internet.We need to keep shops like these. Served by the two loveliest men in gents department.They were helpful and humerous. Made my day.
Susan Reed
13:05 01 Jul 21
We just love the cafe in Browns. Hopefully soon they will get back to full menu. Very friendly helpful staff. I would definitely recommend this cafe x shop.
Browns Helmsley
Louise Clarke
16:30 09 Jun 21
Lorraine was extremely helpful helping my mum to chose the correct fitting bras. I would definitely recommend the staff here and while my dad waited patiently another member of staff got my dad a chair. Thankyou
Sharon Valentine
09:56 01 Dec 20
Great store. Friendly and helpful staff also the staff are very understanding with people who wear the Sunflower Lanyard.
Browns Beverley
Carl Smith
21:52 08 Jan 22
Old style department store. Cafe is good. Could improve on gluten free options.
Agnes Murray
22:15 12 Dec 21
All staff members very helpful one staff member took me to the right counter and asked the staff member there my query and then left when I was assisted by the new staff member
Jim Stringer
21:28 12 Dec 21
The restaurant food is fabulous, although the room's a bit boring & small. As for the shop, as a man, it's completely useless to me as they don't sell menswear, what's that all about, they do in the York branch. Restaurant great, shop, sack the manager!
Marie martienssen
13:50 03 Oct 21
We bought two dresses from Hobbs department and Kelly who served us was fantastic. She helped with sizing and offered suggestions which helped to choose the correct garment. She was confident and knowledgeable about the products. Thank you Kelly.
Chris W
17:50 02 Sep 21
Lovely small department store, that always delivers great customer service. Served today by Shelley on Hobbs, who was a delight to chat to (all part of the service, in my opinion). However, Hobbs are missing an ideal advertising/marketing opportunity, with their jackets made with Moons fabric. This fabric is made in Yorkshire, and that should be highlighted. Our industries need us more than ever!
Browns Gainsborough
Marion LewIS
20:39 30 Nov 21
The young lady that works on the Clinique counter is a real asset to your store I don’t know her name but she has dark hair.Went in today and she was very very friendly and goes out of her way to be helpful just the same as she was on previous visit.
Paul Spencer
08:39 28 Nov 21
Superb little shopping area just need to bring a few more shops into the empty units.
Karen Tracey
15:36 11 Sep 21
Other than goods being a bit on the pricey side. Very helpful staff. I love the new jewelry range.
Why Choose Us
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Independently Run
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What our customers say
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John Doe
Customer
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