Merrythought Bears

Early Years (1930s)

Merrythought was founded in 1930 in Ironbridge, Shropshire, by Gordon Holmes. He had previously worked for the spinning company Chad Valley, and he brought in Clifford Berridge, a talented designer, to create the firm’s first toys. The name Merrythought is said to come from an old English word for a wishbone, symbolising good luck.

The very first catalogue appeared in 1931, featuring teddy bears and other soft animals. The company quickly became known for using high-quality mohair plush, glass eyes, and traditional hand-finishing techniques.

Wartime Years (1940s)

During the Second World War, Merrythought, like many toy manufacturers, was required to switch production to wartime items. The company made utilitarian goods such as gas mask bags and military clothing. Teddy bear production largely paused, but after the war, the factory resumed to meet high demand for toys in a period of austerity.

Post-War Expansion (1950s – 1060s)

In the 1950s, Merrythought developed one of its most famous designs: the Cheeky Bear (first produced in 1957). This distinctive teddy has oversized ears lined with contrasting fabric, a friendly expression, and often a bell in one ear. It became a collector favourite and remains a central part of the range today. Merrythought also produced a variety of traditional bears, animals, and novelty designs during these decades, cementing its reputation for craftsmanship.

Challenges and Continuity (1970s – 1990s)

The 1970s and 1980s brought challenges from cheaper mass-produced toys overseas. While many British soft toy makers closed, Merrythought survived by focusing on quality, limited editions, and exports. The 1990s saw the launch of the T6 Micro Cheeky series (tiny 6-inch limited-edition bears), which became especially popular with collectors worldwide.

Revival and Family Ownership (2000s – Present)

By the early 2000s, Merrythought was the last remaining teddy bear manufacturer in Britain. It faced financial difficulties but was revitalised under the leadership of Sarah Holmes, great-granddaughter of the founder. Today, Merrythought continues to hand-make teddy bears in Ironbridge using traditional methods. They are recognised for their craftsmanship, heritage, and collectability. Special editions often celebrate anniversaries, royal events, or collaborations. Merrythought bears are now treasured both as children’s companions and as valuable collectors’ pieces, with older and limited editions fetching high prices at auction.

Why Buy from Us?

At Hornseys, we are committed to offering items that meet the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our collection of objects and fine gifts is meticulously curated to ensure that it reflects refined taste and elegance.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Authenticity and Provenance: Every range is thoroughly researched and vetted to ensure that it meets our exacting standards.
Expert Curation: We select each range with an eye for tastefulness, refinement, condition, and visual appeal.
Customer Satisfaction: We strive to provide an exceptional customer experience, from detailed descriptions to secure and prompt delivery.
Returns Policy: We offer an unconditional guarantee on every item. If you wish to make a return, any item may be sent back to us within fourteen days of receipt for any reason. We request advance notification of returns, and items must be returned in the same condition as sent for a full refund.

Explore Our Collection:

Every bear offered at Hornseys’ is personally handled and catalogued by Helen Hornsey, who brings over a decade of specialist experience to our collection of rare and vintage bruins. Running the gallery alongside her husband Daniel, Helen has developed an expert eye for the unique nuances of makers like Steiff, R. John Wright, Merrythought, and Charlie Bears. She prides herself on her meticulous attention to detail, particularly when photographing our rare bears; she ensures that every high-resolution image captures the true character, texture, and condition of these sought-after items. This dedicated approach allows collectors to buy with absolute confidence, knowing that each bear has been documented with the same care and precision that defines the Hornsey family’s 50-year legacy in Ripon.

Postage is free in the UK and we also offer fully-insured and tracked worldwide shipping.