The trusted way to borrow money since 1840

With the rapid addition of branches nationwide, an expanding range of quality new and second hand jewellery, coupled with our trusted way to borrow cash, Herbert Brown is proud to own a unique place in the High Street for generations to come.

Herbert Brown is bought by Albermarle and Bond, thus creating one of the largest pawnbroking jewellers in the country.

Herbert Brown purchases its first ever branches in the North East, with retail and pawnbroking operations in Middlesbrough, Newcastle and Sunderland.

Herbert Colin Brown joined the family business and together with his father they expanded the business and opened branches outside Leeds and Rotherham for the first time.

Youngest of Herbert’s 8 children, also Herbert 1909-1980), was born who inherited his share of the business along with 26 relations, however he closed 21 of the 26 shops to bring the business back into his family control.

The Brown business was established with two shops at Christopher Street and Burley Road in Leeds. A further pawnbroking business, bought from Thomas Middleton, at Lady Lane in Leeds added to the expanding company.