Written by Menswear Style in Stockists on the 21st November 2019

We first spoke with James Kingston in 2018 about his then new brand, Benedict Raven, and how coming from a corporate business background, he had worked alongside fellow well-dressed men who realised the importance of looking and feeling good in their clothes. But it was through a personal frustration of not being able to find exactly what he was looking for to fill his wardrobe, when he first saw the need for sophisticated clothing that can act as an alternative to wearing a suit day in, day out.

Well, what a difference a year makes; James is now the proud owner of his first physical Benedict Raven store located in the picture-perfect city of Bath in Somerset. The rapidly growing luxury British menswear brand this month opened their doors to a very first concept store at the prestigious address of 15 New Bond Street (Bath BA1 1BA), and on first impressions, we must say, what a great location and great looking store it truly is.

Initially an ecommerce brand, the luxury menswear company has taken their service level one step further by creating a truly unique and exclusive experience for their customers. Marking the moment in style, the store celebrated the opening by hosting a lavish launch party with hundreds of guests, flowing champagne and hand-picked gift bags for all. The new store showcases the full Timeless collection consisting of 25 garments all made in limited numbers, where you can elevate your wardrobe with key pieces whilst enjoying complimentary barista coffee. But that’s not all, head downstairs and you’ll discover Benedict’s lounge with a handpicked selection of luxury brands such as Bennett Winch, The Magnum Company, Node Audio, Penhaligons, Percy Stride, Ayres London, Christian Schwetz and The Drivers Tipple. 

When we asked James why Bath was chosen for their first store location he said “There are only a few locations in the UK that truly represent timeless quintessential British charm and all the values of Benedict Raven, and Bath couldn’t be more fitting for our first store. Having grown up a stone’s throw away I’ve spent many years in the beautiful city surrounded by the stunning Georgian architecture and indulging in the Thermae Bath Spa. Combine this with luxury hotels some of the finest places to eat and drink, and I couldn’t wish for a better home for our first concept store. Bath has a fantastic collection of luxury brands, so we want to bring even more class, excitement and exclusivity to the historic destination.”

Benedict Raven has grown organically at a rapid rate after being so well received by men wanting a brand that truly represents them. The company consists of a small team, all with a focus on producing high-end timeless menswear made via the finest fabrics from around the world, including their made in England range designed exclusively for the modern man. Going one step further, they have created an exceptional shopping experience from start to finish, not just a transactional retail exchange.

James comments on the importance of a physical store to complement their website, “We decided to move away from a sole ecommerce platform really when as a customer of other luxury products we realised part of a journey of luxury is within the experience. And even though modern technology within shopping is growing and evolving (which of course we will continue to use as a key USP of Benedict Raven) we mustn’t forget the timeless value of an instore experience. I think the benefit of having a physical shop is also important because firstly, you can touch and feel our clothing and secondly, we can see how you feel wearing them. It’s a great opportunity for us to be able to interact and build relationships with customers, helping them with style tips, outfit suggestions, sizing, and as a brand that prides itself on luxury, this is a great opportunity to showcase an exceptional service from start to finish. You can enter our world, see our values and be a part of the Benedict Raven journey.”

Featuring brands such as Bennett Winch, The Magnum Company, Node Audio, Penhaligons and own label clothing, we take a look at James Kingston's first Benedict Raven store in Bath.