About us

Heron bags is our sister company and new baby to Chuckle shoes. 

Chuckle Shoes has been making hand made leather shoes in Exeter, Devon since 1990. Founded by our dear friend and mentor Barrie Forte. Heron Bags might be our new venture but  as a whole we’ve been working with leather here for 30 years. Mainly with all things foot wear, but after the massive loss of our leader, Barrie Forte, we have been guided into diversifying.

The sad & beautiful story of what has lead us into this new venture is a tale of inspiration and friendship. When the bag maker Henry Tomkins made the move from London to Devon (some 20 years ago), Barrie of Chuckle Shoes helped Henry in many ways, sharing his workshop, equipment  and shop space. They continued to support each other over the years and when Barrie was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2023 Henry felt moved to help. He offered to train the Chuckles team in bag making and gift his brilliant time tested patterns to help keep chuckles afloat with the changing tides. Henry's kindness has helped Chuckles to continue as well as support Barrie’s family. Candi, Barrie's wife has taken the reins of the team. 

Our workshop is below the shop on Fore Street in Exeter, Devon, where our team of 6 beaver away hand crafting shoes and bags on a small scale. Our workshop is built into the old roman wall around the city, we love to think that crafts people of Devon have been making and trading leather goods along that city wall for around 2000 years!

We are so pleased to share this story with you, share our craft with you and continue this legacy Barrie created. 

The Heron Bags & Chuckle shoes team. 

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Friends of Heron Bags:

Chuckle Shoes
AW Midgley & Son Leather Supplies
AA Crack & Sons Leather Supplies
The Belt Makers
Ellmandorie clothing