Ankole Opens Its Doors in Stamford: A New Chapter Begins
In the autumn of 2024, Ankole proudly opened the doors to its very first high street store in the charming town of Stamford, Lincolnshire. This milestone marks an exciting new chapter for the business, providing us with a central hub where we can continue to grow and serve our customers. Alongside being the operational heart of Ankole, this beautiful space now offers a showroom where customers can explore our collection of products at their leisure.
Ankole has come a long way since its founding in 2012 by Lesley Magnay, who has lived in Kampala, Uganda, since the 1970s. Formerly East African Trading, the business was rebranded to Ankole when Emma Richardson came on board in 2021. Emma has embraced a vision, making a deep connection to the rural communities of Kampala laying the foundation for a brand rooted in sustainability, ethical craftsmanship, and supporting local artisans. In recent years Lesley has retired, and Ankole continued by Emma, who has passionately continued its mission, ensuring that the rural communities we partner with in Kampala remain at the heart of everything we do.
This growth has allowed us to take on our stunning new space in Stamford. The store not only showcases our signature horn products but also serves as a platform for exclusive in-store collections. Staying true to our ethos, Emma has carefully incorporated a selection of complementary products from other artisans and brands around the world. These items share the same values as our own—crafted from upcycled, recycled, or natural materials, made by hand, and supporting small rural communities.
When you visit our Stamford store, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated collection that perfectly complements our horn products. We currently stock beautiful rugs woven in India from recycled plastic bottles, offering a sustainable yet stylish option for your home. You’ll also find rattan trays, bowls, and vases handcrafted in Indonesia, intricate lampshades made in Morocco, and antique terracotta pots and wooden serving boards sourced from Turkey amongst other one off pieces from around the world. These unique pieces not only add character to the store but also create an earthy, calming atmosphere that reflects the essence of Ankole.
At Ankole, we are proud to bring you products that tell a story—products that are not only beautiful but also sustainable, ethical, and meaningful. We’re thrilled to welcome you into our new Stamford store and invite you to explore our collection, learn about the artisans behind each piece, and discover something truly special for your home.
Come and visit us- either Emma or another member of the team will be thrilled to show you around!
Opening Times: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday & Monday 11am-4pm
Address: 14 St Mary's Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP