I’ve never really known exactly what a pawnbroker is. Often dark and dingy, occupying a strange little corner shop, they can be mysterious places that most people walk past without a backwards glance. Suttons & Robertsons couldn’t be more of a contrast to my naïve assumption.

Suttons & Robertsons is London’s oldest, active, pawnbroking business and is among the largest in the UK. This highly revered company has had a long history offering loans to cash-poor, asset-rich customers in their branches across London and Manchester.

I visited the Victoria store to learn more about the historic company and see some of the amazing objects that are currently pledged or on sale. The smart shop is like a museum of curiosities, with cabinets of stunning jewellery, watches, handbags, antiques and artwork. The knowledgeable staff explained the journey of the items in store… When a customer comes in with an item, ranging from a diamond brooch to a private yacht, they speak to an expert who values the item and offers them a loan price. The customer has 6 months to buy it back while Suttons & Robertsons keep the item safe. After this period if the customer no longer want it, the item goes on sale in one of the stores. If it is sold for more than the price previously given the customer receives the additional money as well.

At Suttons & Robertsons they see it all, from celebrity treasures to historic heirlooms, and I loved seeing the current collection of items. I was particularly enamoured with Margot Fonteyn’s ballet shoes, which now live permanently in the Victoria Store and was also amazed to hear about the 1966 F.A Cup winner’s medal which made it into the past collection.

I began thinking how perfect this store could be for Christmas shopping or for picking out a gift for a couple getting married. Every item is unique and special, a one-of-a-kind object with it’s own story and history. In the Fleet Street branch city boys go in to ogle at the beautiful vintage watches, while in Victoria the array of jewellery and silverware certainly stole my heart. I began picking out my dream stocking of gifts, a beautiful amethyst ring and a set of vintage silver tea caddies.

So it seems there is so much more to pawnbroking than I initially thought, especially at Suttons & Robertsons. Whether you are visiting to pawn a possession or shop for unique jewel, this luxurious emporium has got you covered.

More information about Suttons & Robertsons here.