July 08, 2025
Alright, let's talk taps. If you're in the UK and you're looking for quality, durability, and a bit of British flair for your kitchen or bathroom, you're in the right place. Forget the fluff, we're diving deep into the top UK-based tap manufacturers. We're talking about the real deal, the brands that plumbers trust and homeowners rave about (or sometimes, don't). This isn't some generic list; we're pulling back the curtain on what makes these brands tick, their strengths, and what real people are saying.
Look, it's simple.
When you buy from a UK manufacturer, you're often getting products designed for UK homes.
They're built with UK water pressures and plumbing systems in mind.
Plus, you're supporting local businesses, which is always a win.
It's about quality, reliability, and often, a level of customer service that's hard to beat.
We've scoured the market.
Dug through forums.
And checked out what real users are saying (not just the marketing spiel).
Here are the top players, in no particular order.
Because frankly, the 'best' often comes down to your specific needs and budget.
Bristan is a name you'll hear a lot in the UK.
They're everywhere, and for good reason.
They're known for being the UK's number one for taps and showers.
Offering straightforward solutions that are reliable and long-lasting.
Whether you're after new shower sets, a robust kitchen mixer tap, or elegant basin mixer taps, Bristan probably has something for you.
They've got a massive range.
And their focus is on making things easy for the installer and the homeowner.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
The general consensus on Bristan is pretty solid.
On Trustpilot, they're rocking a 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 3,600 reviews [1].
People consistently praise their customer service.
Highlighting how helpful and efficient the team is, especially with spare parts and warranty claims.
You'll find comments like, "Fantastic service, replacement hot water tank delivered next working day" and "Knowledgeable and friendly to deal with and very prompt delivery of the parts I required." [1]
However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows.
Some users on forums have reported issues, particularly with certain models like the 'Easyfit kitchen taps' [2].
There have been instances where these taps have reportedly 'blown off' the base and flooded kitchens [3].
While these seem to be isolated incidents or specific to older models, it’s worth noting that no brand is perfect.
Overall, for a balance of price, range, and customer support, Bristan remains a strong contender.
If you’re looking for something truly special.
Something that screams luxury and timeless design.
Then Samuel Heath is your go-to.
This British brand, established in 1820, is all about exceptional craftsmanship and enduring quality.
They produce beautifully engineered basin mixer taps, shower sets, and bath mixers that are designed to last a lifetime.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Samuel Heath has a smaller, but highly dedicated, customer base.
On Trustpilot, they have a 3.8-star rating from only 2 reviews [4].
However, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive.
With users praising the longevity and build quality of their products.
One user on Mumsnet said, "I've got Samuel Heath taps in my bathrooms. They are brilliant, they look beautiful, feel nice to use and have been very reliable." [5]
Another on Houzz mentioned, "I chose Samuel Heath in my master bathroom. Plumber complained about my purchasing fixtures from [them]..." which suggests they are high-end and perhaps less common for some plumbers, but the user was happy with the quality [6].
While there aren't as many public reviews as some mass-market brands, the sentiment among those who own Samuel Heath products is that they are an investment worth making for their exceptional quality and design.
Some older forum posts mention issues with specific shower thermostatic valves, but these appear to be isolated and related to installation rather than product quality [7].
Barber Wilsons is another British institution, crafting taps since 1905.
They are known for their traditional, robust, and beautifully made brassware.
If you appreciate heritage and products that are built to last, Barber Wilsons should be on your radar.
They offer a range of kitchen mixer taps, bath mixers, and shower sets that exude classic British charm.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Finding extensive online reviews for Barber Wilsons is a bit like finding a needle in a haystack.
Largely because their clientele is often high-end and their products are built to last, meaning fewer complaints.
However, what you do find is largely positive.
On UK Plumbers Forums, a user mentioned, "We love Barber Wilson proper English taps, almost certainly it can be repairs, most likely it is just a new 'O' seal required." [8]
This highlights their repairability.
Another forum user on MoneySavingExpert said, "We always buy either Perrin & Rowe or Barber Wilsons for kitchens..." indicating their high regard among those who prioritize quality [9].
There's an older YouTube video from 2013 titled "Barber Wilsons & Co Ltd ! Poor Customer Service & Bad Decisions" [10], but this seems to be an isolated incident and not reflective of the overall sentiment.
Independent reviews, like one from Starcraft Custom Builders, commend them for being "wonderfully styled, well-made, and beautifully finished" [11].
The general consensus is that these are high-quality, long-lasting taps for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship.
Perrin & Rowe is synonymous with handcrafted luxury.
Their taps are made in England and are renowned for their exceptional quality, innovative design, and attention to detail.
They offer a stunning collection of kitchen mixer taps, basin mixer taps, shower sets, and bath mixers that are designed to be both beautiful and highly functional.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Perrin & Rowe boasts an impressive 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot from over 370 reviews [12].
Customers frequently highlight their excellent customer service.
With many praising the team's efficiency, knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile.
Comments like "Outstandingly helpful" and "Amazing customer service" are common [12].
Users also appreciate the availability of spare parts and the ease of maintenance.
However, some users have reported issues with specific products, such as instant hot water taps not working correctly, and a perceived lack of support for service visits [13].
While the company does respond to these concerns, it highlights that even premium brands can have occasional product-specific issues or limitations in their service offerings.
Despite this, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering Perrin & Rowe a top-tier choice for luxury taps.
Crosswater is a brand that blends modern design with high-quality engineering.
They offer a comprehensive range of bathroom products, including stylish shower sets, contemporary basin mixer taps, and sleek bath mixers .
Their focus is on creating products that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional, often incorporating innovative features.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Crosswater has a respectable 4.1-star rating on Trustpilot from over 1,500 reviews [14].
Customers frequently commend their customer service.
Highlighting the efficiency, knowledge, and speed with which issues are resolved.
Many reviewers specifically mention individual representatives by name, praising their professionalism and helpfulness.
Comments like "Excellent customer service, sent a replacement part out straight away resolving my issues" are common [14].
However, some users have reported issues with product quality and durability, such as bent shower bars or discrepancies in color [15].
While these seem to be less frequent, they do indicate that occasional quality control issues can arise.
Despite these isolated concerns, the overall feedback suggests that Crosswater offers a good balance of modern design, functionality, and responsive customer support, making them a popular choice for contemporary bathrooms.
Lefroy Brooks is a brand that prides itself on manufacturing classic British bathroom and kitchen brassware.
Their products are inspired by historical designs, offering a timeless aesthetic that appeals to those seeking traditional elegance.
They offer a range of basin mixer taps, shower sets, and bath mixers that are meticulously crafted.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Reviews for Lefroy Brooks are a bit mixed.
And it's harder to find a consolidated rating like on Trustpilot.
Some users on forums praise their quality and design, with one Houzz user stating, "Great quality and very well designed products. Good selection of classic styles and finishes which fit within most design schemes." [16]
However, there are also significant concerns raised, particularly regarding customer service and the origin of manufacturing.
Some users have reported "Awful customer service" and difficulties with obtaining replacement parts [17].
A recurring theme in some older forum discussions is the question of whether Lefroy Brooks taps are truly 'made in China' despite being marketed as British [18].
While the company states they manufacture in the UK, this perception can impact customer trust.
Some plumbers on forums have also expressed frustration with the installation and repair of Lefroy Brooks products, describing them as "silly" and difficult to work with [19].
This suggests that while the aesthetic appeal is high, practical considerations for installation and long-term maintenance might be a concern for some.
Abode Designs is a UK-based company known for its innovative and stylish kitchen and bathroom taps.
They focus on combining cutting-edge design with practical functionality.
Offering a wide range of kitchen mixer taps, basin mixer taps, and shower sets that cater to contemporary tastes.
They are particularly recognized for their boiling water taps and filtration systems.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Abode Home Products (which includes Abode Designs) has a 4-star rating on Trustpilot from nearly 400 reviews [20].
Customers frequently praise the quality and effectiveness of their products, especially their boiling water taps.
Comments like "The quality is very good, better than I expected actually. It has been installed since January and has been faultless thus far." are common [21].
Users also appreciate their responsive customer service when issues arise, with one user noting, "Fair enough we've had to replace one washer and two cartridges but Abode has been very quick to deliver and provide a great service." [22]
However, some isolated incidents of issues with tap levers coming off have been reported [23].
While these seem to be minor and easily resolved with customer support, it's something to be aware of.
Overall, Abode is seen as a reliable brand for those seeking modern, feature-rich taps with good customer support.
Mira Showers is a household name in the UK.
Primarily known for its extensive range of showers, but they also offer a selection of high-quality shower mixer taps and bath mixers .
They have a long-standing reputation for reliability, performance, and innovation in showering technology.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Mira Showers has an impressive 4.4-star rating on Trustpilot from over 11,500 reviews [24].
Customers consistently praise the performance and longevity of their showers.
With many highlighting the ease of installation and the effectiveness of their customer service.
Comments like "Great product, been using this model for 14 years and very happy with it" and "Excellent customer service, sent a replacement part out straight away resolving my issues" are common [25].
While the vast majority of reviews are positive, some users have reported issues with specific models or components, such as electric showers cutting out or leaks [26].
However, Mira's responsive customer service often resolves these issues promptly.
Overall, Mira is a highly trusted brand for showering solutions, and their taps benefit from their expertise in water flow and temperature control.
Rangemaster is a well-established British brand.
Most famous for its range cookers, but they also produce a selection of high-quality kitchen products, including kitchen mixer taps.
Their taps are designed to complement their iconic range cookers, offering both style and durability for the heart of the home.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Rangemaster has a 4.2-star rating on Trustpilot from over 6,800 reviews [27].
While many of these reviews are for their cookers, the positive sentiment often extends to their other kitchen products, including taps.
Customers frequently praise the quality and durability of Rangemaster products.
Comments like "Love range cooker. We had a range from another brand previously and the quality of the Rangemaster is far superior. Very solid." are indicative of the brand's reputation [28].
Specific to taps, some users on forums have reported issues with leaks or specific components after a few years of use [29].
However, these seem to be isolated incidents, and the overall perception is that Rangemaster offers solid, reliable kitchen taps that are a good investment, especially if you're looking for a cohesive kitchen aesthetic.
Victoria + Albert Baths is a British brand with a global reputation for creating exquisite freestanding baths and basins.
While their primary focus is on baths, they also offer a curated selection of high-quality taps and accessories designed to complement their luxury sanitaryware.
Their taps, including basin mixer taps and bath mixers, embody the same commitment to design, quality, and craftsmanship as their baths.
What they do well:
The Word on the Street:
Victoria + Albert Baths has a 4.0-star rating on Trustpilot from 31 reviews [30].
While the number of reviews is smaller compared to mass-market brands, the feedback is generally positive, focusing on the luxurious feel and quality of their products.
Yes, Bristan is a UK-based company and they design and manufacture many of their taps and showers in the UK.
They are headquartered in Tamworth, Staffordshire, and are known for being the UK's number one for taps and showers.
While some components might be sourced globally, the core design, engineering, and assembly often take place in the UK.
This is the million-dollar question, and the honest answer is: it depends.
There’s no single ‘best’ company for everyone.
It comes down to your priorities:
* For budget-friendly reliability and excellent customer service: Bristan is a strong contender.
* For ultimate luxury, craftsmanship, and timeless design: Samuel Heath and Perrin & Rowe are top-tier choices.
* For modern aesthetics and innovative features: Crosswater and Abode Designs are excellent options.
* For traditional charm and heritage: Barber Wilsons is a fantastic choice.
* For showering excellence: Mira Showers is a clear leader.
While there are standard sizes for tap fittings in the UK, not all taps are completely universal.
The main things to consider are:
* Water Pressure: UK homes can have high or low water pressure systems. Some taps are designed specifically for low-pressure systems, while others require high pressure to function correctly. It’s crucial to check your home’s water pressure and choose a tap that’s compatible.
* Tap Holes: Sinks and basins come with a specific number of tap holes (usually one or two). You’ll need to choose a tap that matches the configuration of your sink or basin.
* Pipe Connections: While most taps use standard pipe connections, there can be variations. It’s always best to check the specifications of the tap and your existing plumbing to ensure a smooth installation.
Are you a wholesaler, a retailer, or a contractor? Have you considered sourcing in China? If not, maybe you could give it a try.
With 20+ years as a China mixer tap manufacturer, we offer:
* Product Line：Shower sets, shower mixers, bath mixers, kitchen mixer taps,basin mixer taps
* Full OEM/ODM support (low MOQ, annual product/price optimization)
* 82 patents & 3 Red Dot Awards (2022) for innovative designs
* NSF-certified production (Japanese lead-free tech, Italian casting, PVD coating)
* Certifications: CE, KC, ISO, CTC
* One-stop services from R&D to after-sales
NEXT: Faucet Vs Tap Vs Spigot: Ultimate Guide To Key Differences
PREV: End
