Foxhills Jewellers was founded in 1710, and we're proud to have been located in Bristol for our entire history. Our story is one of success, setbacks, family and a passion for providing an amazing service to our customers.
One family loved us so much, that ten generations of the same family trusted us to provide their wedding ring on their special day, setting a tradition that reached back centuries.
With over 100,000 engagement rings manufactured and sold by Foxhills over the years, when you purchase a piece of jewellery from Foxhills, you’re not only buying a stunning gem, but you are also acquiring a slice of history that testifies to Foxhills' dedication to excellence.
Our Founding
1710
George Edgecumbe opened the very first shop in a Tudor building on Redcross Street in Bristol’s Old Market in 1710. He trained as a brass founder and, as he was a skilled craftsman, he saw an opportunity to move into clock-making as well.
Queen Anne
1714
Foxhills was founded during the reign of Queen Anne. She was Queen when England and Scotland united to become Great Britain, and reigned from 1702 until her death in 1714.
Change of Name
1825
John and Nathaniel Edgecumbe began working together as clockmakers at the Old Market Shop from 1825 to 1832, under the name J & E Edgecumbe, after previously working independently. This is an image of a clock made by John and Nathaniel.
SS Great Britain
1843
SS Great Britain was launched, and was the longest passenger ship in the world from 1845 to 1854. She has now been restored and can be visited in Bristol Harbour.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
1864
One of the most iconic sites in Bristol - Clifton Suspension Bridge was opened in 1864. The bridge was lit by magnesium flares for its ceremonial opening parade, but they were blown out by the wind. The tolls from the bridge are used for maintenance and repairs.
Business Expansion
1868
John Edgecumbe married Elizabeth Parsons, and it was their son, George, who helped the family business branch out into jewellery. As the firm prospered, a second shop, known as the Old Queen Anne House, is opened in 1868.
Tower Bridge
1894
Tower Bridge was officially opened on 30 June 1894 by the Prince and Princess of Wales. The bascule bridge crosses the River Thames, close to the Tower of London, and has become one of the most iconic symbols of London.
Death of Queen Victoria
1901
Queen Victoria's reign was the longest reign of any British Monarch at the time, and is currently second only to the current Queen, Elizabeth II. She reigned for 63 years until her death in 1901. The Victorian Era saw great strides for the United Kingdom in health, technology and politics.
The Blitz
1940
Due to the major port and aircraft manufacturing, Bristol was hit heavily during the Second World War. One casualty was the Old Queen Anne House, the second Parsons shop, as it was completely destroyed during the attacks.
Movement of the Shop
1966
The core of the business nonetheless survived the Blitz and continued to serve the local community. The original shop remained in the same location for 250 years until 1966 when it was demolished to make way for a new road layout. Undeterred, Parsons the Jewellers continued to trade from the Broadmead Shopping Centre.
Sale of the Shop
1992
In 1992 Edward Parsons, the seventh generation to run the store, died leaving his widow Freda in charge. As Edward and Freda did not have any heirs, the business was sold seven years after Edward’s death to Paul Davis, who was a family acquaintance.
A New Direction
2014
In 2014, Parsons was purchased by the Banks family. In 2018, the shop location changed to Thornbury High Street in Bristol.
Online Store
2018
In 2018, Parsons opened an online store in addition to the high street store and opened its doors to the world!
Rebranding
2020
In 2020, we rebranded and changed our name to Foxhills Jewellers. With this new name we plan to grow our online presence throughout the UK and worldwide whilst maintaining our heritage, and our part in Bristol's history.
