Address: Fossbridge House, York, YO1 9SY (now Loch Fyne)
Description
A ghost sign painted on the wall reads “F.R.Stubbs / Ironmonger / Sliding Door Gear / Tools For All Trades”.
White block capital text stands out against the black background, bordered in white.
On the other side of the building facing the river Foss, a smaller sign in the same design reads “F.R.Stubbs / Ironmonger / Fireplace Specialist”.
History
The red-brick building on the corner of Fossgate and Merchantgate has a rich history in York, primarily known as the home of ironmonger FR Stubbs.
The business operated here from 1915 until it was listed for sale in 2001.
For decades, the store was regarded as one of York’s “Aladdin’s Caves,” where customers could find anything from six-inch nails to rare screwdrivers and everything in between.
1924 – The employees of F.R. Stubbs Ironmonger in front of the Fossbridge House premises Source: York Press
Initially established by Francis Richard Stubbs in 1904, the business moved to its current Grade II listed building in 1915.
Francis Richard Stubbs began his career as an apprentice to Bridge Street ironmonger Richard Varvill in 1870, with his family paying £75 for the apprenticeship.
The first Stubbs shop was located in Lady Peckitt’s Yard (where another ghost sign remains today), but it quickly outgrew the space.
The business eventually settled at its current location, a building constructed in 1878 by linen and woolen traders WG Whitehead and Co.
1970 – The F.R. Stubbs ghost sign is visible in the distance. Source: York Press
Despite its continued profitability, FR Stubbs faced challenges from parking and access restrictions, which made it harder for customers to reach the store.
The business closed in 2001, marking the end of an era for this iconic shop.
1990s Source: Explore York Images Asset ID: 1000439
Over time, the building has undergone several changes. The City of York Council approved plans to transform the site into a restaurant in 2004.
Loch Fyne opened in November 2006 but suffered heavily from the Boxing Day floods of 2015, resulting in a prolonged closure.
This photo was taken before the sign was partially concealed by another building Source: York Press
The restaurant reopened after renovations in September 2020, continuing the evolution of this historic site.
Got thoughts or a story to share about this iconic sign? We’re all ears—drop your comments below and join the conversation!
I was responsible for re-painting the signage at Stubbs (mid 1990,s) for Harrison signs. The sign at the top facing down Walmgate was done from an extended arm of a cherry picker. The yard one was repainted from a double extension ladder, as was the sign on the wall facing Fossgate (not on your photos) … All the work was carried out over the weekend. Mr Stubbs insisted it be done when the shop was closed…
Hi Iain! These are great stories, it’s so great that you actually met Mr Stubbs.
A big part of this project is actually gathering the personal stories people have about these ghost signs, so I wondered if you might fancy having an interview with us, as part of our research? These stories could be anything about ghost signs, their history or any personal stories you have about them.
Do you think this sounds like something you might be interested in?