Our History

Shepherd & Woodward are a traditional clothing outfitters in the High Street, Oxford, England. In particular, we provide academic gowns and other clothing for the University of Oxford. The shop's origins date back to 1845.

The company was set up by Arthur Shepherd, who in 1877 took over the tailor's shop of Arthur Brockington in 62 Cornmarket St, Oxford.  After Arthur's death in 1895, his son Ernest took over the business, and in 1902 he opened a branch named Arthur Shepherd in 32 Trinity St, Cambridge under independent management. In 1929 Ernest Shepherd merged his business with Wilton Woodward, and moved their premises, now renamed Shepherd & Woodward, to The High.  Originally a gentleman's tailor, it has over the years specialised in academic dress and academic memorabilia as well.

Dennis Venables, apprenticed in 1930, bought the business and it has remained in the family since.  He was joined by his sons John in 1957 and Peter in 1963.  John has sadly passed but his brother Peter continues to keep a keen eye on the business which is now managed by his niece (John's daughter), Lisa Venables. 

Please do come shopping and support an Independent Oxford family business.