Victoria Coleman

2021 – We turn 40!

Our Director Victoria visits London to be granted Freedom of the Saddlers’ Company by Redemption of the Trade. In November we reach our 40th birthday, a huge milestone for us.

2020 – Innovating times

2020 gets off to a flying start when our digital saddle configurator Build My Baines, wins the Highly Commended Award in the Technology category at BETA International 2020. It allows riders to design their dream saddle on screen by choosing colours, leathers  and crystals. It takes the guesswork out of choosing custom parts for the rider. The […]

2019 – The Operetta lands

We launched the Operetta Dressage saddle in late 2019. It has gone on to become one of our most popular Dressage saddles and has won many awards. It’s a versatile saddle with a super-soft knee block for closeness and support, it gives the horse lots of room freedom of movement and provides even pressure distribution.  It also […]

2016 – Sweet Symphony

In 2016 following Frank’s retirement, his son Garry and daughter Victoria, officially take over the running of the business. They immediately focus on introducing a brand new range of saddles. Each was designed in close development with their team of saddlers and customers, reviewing every aspect of each saddle with a particular focus on fit. […]

1991 – People are the future

Due to the increased demand for his saddles Frank needed to grow his workforce again. However, there was a shortage of skilled workers, so Frank decided to set up a training scheme so that his new work force could gain the necessary skills by taking the national Skill Assessment and Qualification Scheme for Saddlers. The […]

Princess Anne meets Frank Baines of Frank Baines Saddlery

1990 – Growing stronger

The new decade got off to a flying start with two further awards for both Frank and Saddler Pete at the  Society of Master Saddlers Saddle Competition. Frank was also honoured to be selected for Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers in recognition of his services and skills. Later that year Frank was also […]

1987 – Pastures new and royal connections

As the company continued to grow the Saddlery moved to bigger premises  in Northcote Street, where it remains today. Awards continued to roll in and in 1988, for the first time The Worshipful Company of Saddlers awarded high honours to 3 saddlers from the company. Frank for Master Saddler of the Year, and saddlers Keith […]

1981 – New horizons

Following a huge fire at the saddlery where Frank worked, he decided to take the plunge and start up business on his own.  Along with his wife Jane, an experienced leather machinist, they began making saddles in their own kitchen and Frank Baines Saddlery was born. Originally making saddles for one client, Hasbo, in Sweden, as […]

1979 – Recognition begins

In 1979 Frank was entered into the prestigious Society of Master Saddlers Saddle Competition and scooped first prize for his jumping saddle. It was the first of many, and a turning point in Frank’s career as his skills began to be noticed. Frank went on to win the same competition again the following year.  

1974 – Moving on

After 12 years at Antill’s, Frank wanted to broaden his horizons. He moved to Falcon Saddlery where he became involved in the design and making of new saddles which Frank really enjoyed. He made a saddle for the late international show jumper Caroline Bradley MBE, who became the first female winner of the Puissance at the […]