For over 90 years, Vale Bridgecraft has stood for exceptional British furniture making. From humble beginnings to a nationally recognised brand, our story is built on passion, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to quality upholstery. As the saying goes—hard to define, but easy to recognise.
The Vale Story
Beginnings in Yorkshire Founded in 1947 by Mr. & Mrs. Lomax, Vale Upholstery began life under Utility restrictions, re-covering old furniture before designing their own simple pieces. The business took its name from Vale Mill in Todmorden, drawing on Yorkshire’s renowned heritage in textiles, joinery, and fine furniture making.
Growth and Expansion
By 1962, the company had grown to 40 staff and moved to a light-filled mill on Halifax Road, Todmorden, a move that fuelled further expansion.
In 1982, Vale relocated to its present home in Mytholmroyd near Hebden Bridge-a former blanket mill large enough to accommodate a growing team of 60. By the early 2000s, Vale, now combined with Bridgecraft, employed over 100 skilled craftsmen.
Showrooms In 2000, Vale Bridgecraft opened its first off-site showroom in Draycott, Gloucestershire, offering the public a chance to explore its wide range of designs—not just trade customers.
Bridgecraft Background
The Leeds Workshop
The Bridgecraft story began in 1935 when Maurice (Morry) Lee opened a tiny workshop in a converted stable near Leeds Bridge. Known then as Bridge Upholstery, Morry’s commitment to quality craftsmanship soon set his work apart.
Post-War Success
After wartime restrictions ended, demand surged. By the early 1960s, a Bridgecraft suite had become a household symbol of prestige—the furniture equivalent of owning a Jaguar.
A Lasting Legacy
When Bridgecraft celebrated its Golden Jubilee in 1985, it had already become part of the Vale Group, combining its signature style and craftsmanship with Vale’s expertise to reach a wider audience.
Our partnership programme is structured to protect retailer profitability with competitive margins.
Together, Vale and Bridgecraft represent over a century of heritage, quality, and innovation in British furniture.
Still based in Yorkshire, our craftsmen continue to produce upholstery that blends timeless tradition with modern design—pieces built to last for generations.
