We are proud of our reputation as one of the longest established family businesses in Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire and although our partnership with Toiles de Mayenne demonstrates our expanding horizon, it is our local roots in the town that are extremely important to us.



Our interior design service allows us to put to good use the vast experience we have in sourcing and recommending the finest fabrics and soft furnishings for curtains and upholstery. Additionally, we offer a complete installation and manufacturing service so that we can manage the entire project for you. Please contact us to arrange a home consultation.

Personal Service

From first contact you can be assured of the best attention at all times. Our designer will visit your home for an initial consultation and from then on you will be kept up to date until completion of the project. You will always be our top priority and never become a ‘job number’.

The Team

The size of our team allows us to offer a solution to your needs whilst maintaining the personal touch. Our knowledge and experience in key areas is a result of training and careful recruitment. We have a close relationship with our carefully chosen suppliers and we all have the same aim – to satisfy the customer.

The History

The origins of Carr and Bury date back to the turn of 19th Century when Amos Pryor established a drapery and haberdashery business in North Street, Bishop’s Stortford in 1891.

The Collett family first became involved in 1955 when John Collett bought the shop with his wife Ruth in 1955. The pair’s plans to develop the shop together were cut short by John’s death in 1956, which was when their younger son Peter became involved on a full time basis.

Peter gave up his career in the City to become managing director of Carr and Bury, with his mother as chairman. They were soon joined by Jean Barge, who managed the company’s finances and later, became Chairman.

Through the 1960’s and 70’s the business flourished with Peter building up a large and successful dress fabric and haberdashery department.  While the overall number of drapers and fabric shops declined in Britain, Carr and Bury succeeded in attracting custom from the many people who were still keen sewers.

Fabric remained Carr and Bury’s core business - as it does today - but the company began to expand into other areas, including duvets and pillows, linens and haberdashery.

In 1983 Peter’s son Henry became the third generation of Collett’s to join the business and in 1994 he succeeded his father as managing director, developing Carr & Bury’s expertise in project managing contracts for a range of furnishings and window treatments.

The last few years have seen significant changes with the reduction and consolidation of the shop floor, allowing the business to grow. A link with exclusive French company Toiles de Mayenne who boast a wonderful range of fabrics and furnishings has really placed Carr & Bury among the elite in their market place.

Carr & Bury are ready for the next stage in their journey from hosiery and haberdashery to their current position – as interior designers and suppliers of exclusive fabrics and furnishings, curtains, blinds and quality furniture.

Arrange an appointment

Pop into our new shop in Church Lane, Bishops Stortford or give us a call on 01279 654352 to arrange a convenient time for one of our team to visit your home.

Opening times: Tues - Fri 10am to 5pm, Saturday 10am to 4pm, (Sun and Mon closed).