Having studied Fashion and Textiles at Southampton University, she cut her teeth at Karen Millen before landing a role as a trend forecaster for M&S. When a coterie of private clients began seeking her advice, the beginnings of what would become Suzannah London – her chic Marylebone boutique – followed. Disciples of her collections extol not only the clothes but the service: everything can be altered to fit or made to measure from scratch. And while the price point is a far cry from her days at M&S, the outlook remains inclusive – though some of her clientele are, of course, aristocrats and public figures, others are simply looking for one or two truly special pieces to layer into a more modest wardrobe.
Here, she guides us around Yorkshire, the county that raised her.
For someone who's never been to Yorkshire before: what's the very first place you'd take them – and why that spot, specifically?
I'd first take them to Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire. It's totally breathtaking, but no one ever speaks about it! Walking around the ancient abbey ruins and then the beautiful water garden is a serene experience and really captures Yorkshire's depth and elegance.
If you only had one day in Yorkshire and could only show someone three places, where would you take them – morning, afternoon and evening?
I would tell them to begin their day with a walk at Millington pastures, soaking up the scenery and the fresh air. Then, they should head into York for shopping and lunch at Skosh - my favourite restaurant. While they're in the city, they should make sure they don't miss The Shambles, York's well-preserved medieval street. After that, take a walk along the river with a coffee. To end your perfect day in Yorkshire, I truly recommend going for a full moon swim at Pool Bridge Farm. Only a short drive from the city, it's a unique and cleansing wild swimming experience, softened by hot drinks and saunas.
Complete this sentence: 'If you only see one thing in Yorkshire, make it…'
The coast. While I think East Yorkshire's coast isn't spoken about enough, the lack of attention it's had means that it's unspoilt and immensely peaceful. It's well worth a visit – you'd be shortchanged if you come to Yorkshire but miss our gorgeous coastline.
What's your favourite place in Yorkshire that most visitors don't know about – but absolutely should?
Burton Agnes! It's a beautiful Elizabethan stately home with absolutely stunning gardens. During February specifically, you can take their snowdrop woodland walk. It's beautiful, and then afterwards you can have lunch at the hall and warm up.
Which three shops in Yorkshire do you always find an excuse to visit?
This is a tricky one. I love the jewellery from Daniella Draper in Beverley – I could walk into that shop blindfolded and still be guaranteed to leave with a beautiful piece! This isn't strictly a shop, but I love the home-wear from Follie Chambre, a Yorkshire-based design studio. To be honest, I usually just go for a long mooch around the Victoria quarter in Leeds.
Where do you go for a really good lunch and what do you order?
The Pipe & Glass in Beverley – it has an incredible vegan menu. Also, make sure you get the 'Afters'! 'Afters' is local dialect for dessert, but this menu is far from an afterthought when you're there.
You're splashing out on a hotel: where do you go?
It would have to be The Highfield in Driffield.
And for a pampering/wellness fix?
The Yoga Barn in South Cave is great.
What about for a great coffee/tea fix?
Still Cafe Bar. It's recently moved from Hull to Beverley, which is exciting! It's tiny, but extremely pretty. You can also buy fresh flowers while you're there, which is always a bonus.
Who is your favourite local artist or maker – and where can people find their work?
I have a lot of admiration for David Remfry, a painter who trained in Hull. I'm such a fan of his work, and just him as a person, honestly. He occasionally exhibits his work at Beverley Art Gallery – another must see – and in 2023 he curated the RA Summer Exhibition. Actually, Beverley Art Gallery recently acquired a painting of his, called Two Girls on the Shore. It's a captivating piece, just like the artist himself! He's so full of life and is really inspiring to be around. He does the Hull culture scene proud!
Favourite local florist?
Vicky Vert from Vert and Vase in Hull is amazing – I just love her work in general. I also really like Eden Floral Boutique. They're also based in Hull, but they have a stall at Beverley's historic Saturday market, which is lovely.
Where do you go when you're celebrating?
The Westwood Restaurant in Beverley is always a classic.
And for a proper culture fix?
For art galleries I would recommend Ferens Art Gallery in Hull. In fact, my relative's art was displayed there during Hull Fair Week. Her name is Christina Catherine Armitage. She painted the Wright & Co's Brandy Snap bag, a Hull Fair classic, in oils. It was so detailed, it could've passed as a photograph.
Where do you go when you need a big view?
Easily Bempton Cliffs in Flamborough … if you're lucky enough, you may even see puffins!
Finish this sentence: 'If you really want to experience Yorkshire properly, you should ___.'
Chat to people. One truly special characteristic of Yorkshire is the friendliness of the people who live there, so always say hello in the street, and strike up a conversation with anyone who looks interesting. You won't regret it!
Who is your ultimate local hero and why?
I'd have to say Jean 'Busy Bee' Bishop. She spent over 30 years urging people to donate to charity, raising over £125,000! She was local to Hull and did all of her fundraising dressed as a bumblebee. A true icon.
Suzannah Crabb
Where is Suzannah Crabb based?
Suzannah is based in London, where she runs her Marylebone boutique, Suzannah London, though she grew up in Yorkshire and returns regularly.
What is Suzannah Crabb known for?
She is known for her elegant, vintage-inspired designs with a modern sensibility, worn by high-profile clients including the Princess of Wales, Helen Mirren and Olivia Colman.
What makes Yorkshire special according to Suzannah Crabb?
For Suzannah, Yorkshire's appeal lies in its breadth – from dramatic coastline and countryside to quietly excellent food, independent makers and a strong sense of community.
What are Suzannah Crabb's top Yorkshire highlights?
Standouts include Fountains Abbey, the Yorkshire coast, Bempton Cliffs, and lesser-known gems like Burton Agnes Hall and Pool Bridge Farm for wild swimming.
When is the best time to visit Yorkshire?
Yorkshire works year-round, but spring and early summer offer the best balance of landscape, light and outdoor experiences, from coastal walks to garden visits.
