We take a look inside one of Birmingham city centre’s oldest businesses from its men’s giftware to supplying royalty with boxes of cigars.
John Hollingsworth & Son tobacconist has the charm and feel that comes with shops of a bygone age. Standing proud in Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade, this snug store has far more than just cigars and pipes, although that is how it made its name.
Back in 1843 – 181 years ago today on December 13 – the original Hollingsworth founder, Thomas, was appointed an official tobacconist in Birmingham to Queen Victoria’s husband Prince Albert.
There’s even a glorious yellowing official certificate from Buckingham Palace in a frame certifying that Royal association on the wall, with its own regal wax seal that is well worth a look.
This long-standing business is still renowned as a Havana Cigar specialist in Birmingham city centre and has been owned by Havana House since October 2020.
There’s everything from hip flasks to traditional shaving sets, Zippo lighters, cigar cases and pipes lining the cabinets leading up to the pristine Cigar Room. In there, you’ll find a wide range from around the world.
There’s plenty of tobacco accessories and ephemera too including humidors and Frederick Tranter snuff in 30 flavours.
Experienced staff with expertise in the field are always at hand in the calm of this hidden store. They include Heather, whose worked at John Hollingsworth & Son’s for 25 years, and Cas, who has knocked up 16 years.
“The cigar shop was passed down in the Hollingsworth family for a long time until the last owner died in 2017. Havana House has bought the shop since, but we still trade under the historic John Hollingsworth & Son name.
“We have kept the traditional ethos of the family business and are a cigar specialist. We sell more cigars than anything else here.
“The shop even supplied Prince Albert in the Victorian era and the diploma on the wall remains for all to see as a reminder of that historic moment.”
The certificate reads:
“Mr Thomas Hollingsworth you are hereby appointed tobacconist at Birmingham to his Royal Highness Prince Albert. Given under my hand and seal at Buckingham Palace this thirteen day of December 1843. Signed Groom of the State.”
You’ll find John Hollingsworth & Son tobacconist at 27 Great Western Arcade, Birmingham, B2 5HU. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 5.30pm.