Floor & Grandfather Clocks

Elegant Floor & Grandfather Clocks in the UK: Where to Buy and How to Choose

If you’re thinking about adding a statement timepiece to your home, a floor or grandfather clock is one of the most dramatic and rewarding choices you can make. These tall, chiming companions bring character, rhythm, and a sense of history to living rooms, hallways, and studies. In this guide I’ll walk you through where to shop in the UK (including Nordic Nest and other top retailers), what to look for, and how to choose a clock that matches your style and space. Ready to explore the world of longcase clocks with a cup of tea at hand? Let’s go.

Why Invest in a Floor or Grandfather Clock?

Grandfather clocks are more than timekeepers; they’re conversation starters. They anchor a room visually, offer a tactile connection to craftsmanship, and often increase in sentimental value over time. Unlike a wristwatch or mantel clock, a full-height timepiece gives your interior a vertical focal point that blends function and furniture. Think of a grandfather clock as the skyline of a room—tall, unmistakable, and able to change the whole atmosphere.

Nordic Nest: Scandinavian Style and Designer Clocks

Nordic Nest is well known for its Scandinavian design selection, and if you love clean lines with a timeless aesthetic, it’s a great place to start. They stock iconic designer clocks, including the Arne Jacobsen range. While Nordic Nest specialises in pared-back, modern looks, their offering can also complement traditional interiors when chosen carefully.

Arne Jacobsen City Hall Models — sizes and style

If you’re a design buff, Nordic Nest carries Arne Jacobsen City Hall clocks in several sizes. The sizes listed as Ø 290 mm, Ø 210 mm, and Ø 160 mm convert to roughly 11.4 inches, 8.3 inches, and 6.3 inches across. These are typically wall clock sizes rather than full-height grandfather clocks, but they show the brand’s clean dial design and precision. For a coordinated look, use an Arne Jacobsen wall clock in a room anchored by a traditional floor clock to balance contemporary minimalism with classic presence.

UK Retailers That Sell Floor and Grandfather Clocks

Beyond Nordic Nest, there are several reputable UK retailers where you can find both modern and traditional floor clocks. Each shop has strengths, whether that’s handcrafted antique-style longcase clocks, budget-friendly options, or designer pieces. Below I’ll walk through popular choices and what to expect from each.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis is a go-to for many home shoppers in the UK. They offer a curated selection of floor clocks and grandfather clocks, often from trusted clockmakers and home brands. Expect a blend of tradition and modern reinterpretations, plus solid warranties and in-store expertise if you prefer to see a piece before committing. Their range tends to suit mainstream tastes and is a safe bet if you want proven quality without overpaying.

Wayfair UK

Wayfair has a huge online catalogue, so it’s an excellent place to browse styles, compare prices, and read customer reviews. You’ll find everything from ornate heirloom-style longcase clocks to sleek, contemporary towers. The variety can be overwhelming, but if you want options and competitive pricing, Wayfair is worth a deep dive.

Habitat and Heal’s

For more design-focused pieces, Habitat and Heal’s offer a smaller, carefully selected range that leans toward modern and mid-century influences. If your interior is minimalist or designer-led, you’ll find floor clocks and large standing timepieces that act like functional sculptures rather than purely traditional heirlooms.

Antique Dealers and Specialist Clockmakers

If you want authenticity, antique dealers and specialist clockmakers are where you’ll find true longcase clocks with original movements. These options require patience and some technical know-how—mechanical movements, pendulum adjustments, and occasional servicing are part of the ownership experience. The payoff is character, provenance, and a piece of history in your home.

How to Choose the Right Grandfather Clock for Your Home

Choosing a floor clock isn’t just about picking the prettiest case. Size, movement type, chimes, and finish all matter. Here’s a practical checklist to guide your decision and make sure the clock you choose fits both your space and lifestyle.

Measure Your Space in Feet and Inches

Always measure ceiling height and the intended placement area in feet and inches. Most grandfather clocks range from about 6 feet to 7 feet tall—commonly around 72 inches to 84 inches—so make sure there’s at least a few inches of clearance above the clock and room for the door to open if the wardrobe or bookcase is nearby. Don’t forget to measure floor space so the base sits comfortably without obstructing walkways.

Movement Type: Mechanical vs Quartz

Mechanical movements (weight-driven or spring-driven) have that classic ticking and require winding—once a week or so depending on the movement. They often come with traditional chimes like Westminster. Quartz movements are battery-powered and low-maintenance; they’re quieter and easier to live with. If you love antiques or authentic mechanics, go mechanical. If convenience is king, pick quartz.

Chimes, Silence Options, and Night Features

Chiming clocks can be charming—or disruptive—depending on your lifestyle. Many modern models include a night silencer or volume control so the chimes won’t wake light sleepers. Decide whether you want a musical chime, a simple hourly strike, or a silent mode to suit evening quiet times.

Case Material and Finish

Traditional longcase clocks often use solid woods like oak, mahogany, or walnut with veneers and carvings. Contemporary designs may use lacquered finishes, painted surfaces, or even metal. Consider the finish’s durability, especially if the clock will sit in a high-traffic area where bumps and scuffs are more likely.

Styling Tips: Where to Place Your Floor Clock

Placement can make or break the effect. A grandfather clock works well at the end of a hallway, beside a fireplace, or flanking a doorway. It should have breathing space—don’t crowd it with tall furniture—and a contrasting backdrop to let the case and dial stand out. If your walls are busy with wallpaper or art, choose a clock with a simpler silhouette so visuals don’t clash.

Pairing with Other Furnishings

If your interior is mainly contemporary, choose a clock with minimal ornamentation and a slim profile. For period rooms, pick an ornate case with a brass dial and pendulum. Think of the clock as a piece of furniture: match wood tones where possible, or intentionally contrast for a layered, eclectic look.

Care and Maintenance for Longcase Clocks

Owning a grandfather clock is a bit like tending a well-loved garden—it needs regular attention to thrive. Regular dusting, keeping the movement serviced, and ensuring the clock is level are key tasks. If your clock is mechanical, have it professionally serviced every few years to keep the movement accurate and prevent wear.

Keeping Your Clock Level

A grandfather clock must stand level side-to-side and front-to-back so the pendulum swings evenly. Use a small spirit level and adjust the feet or add thin shims until the swing is consistent. If it ticks unevenly or stops frequently, re-leveling often solves the problem.

Cleaning the Case and Dial

Use a soft cloth and gentle wood cleaner for the case; avoid harsh chemicals that strip finishes. For brass dials and pendulums, lightly polish with a dedicated metal cleaner, taking care not to remove patina you might want to keep. If the dial has enamel or painted details, stick to dry dusting or the gentlest damp cloth to avoid damage.

Budgeting: What to Expect to Pay in the UK

Prices vary widely depending on brand, age, movement, and craftsmanship. New mechanical grandfather clocks from reputable makers typically start in the mid hundreds and can go into the thousands of pounds for bespoke or heirloom-quality pieces. Quartz floor clocks and modern styled towers are more affordable, often priced lower while still offering strong visual impact. If you’re comfortable with secondhand or refurbished clocks, you can sometimes find real bargains through specialist dealers, auctions, and antique fairs.

Pros and Cons: Is a Grandfather Clock Right for You?

Pros: a grandfather clock is a long-lasting piece that adds character and can even become a family heirloom. It provides a focal point, pleasant chimes, and a daily ritual if you wind it. Cons: it takes up floor space, may need maintenance (especially mechanical types), and can be expensive if you want a high-quality, antique model. Weigh these factors against your space, budget, and appetite for maintenance.

Good Fit

If you have a spacious living area, hallway, or study, and enjoy living with tactile, mechanical objects, a longcase clock will enrich your home. It suits collectors and anyone who values traditional interiors or tasteful statement pieces.

Less Suitable

If you live in a small flat, move often, or dislike regular upkeep, consider wall or mantel clocks instead. They deliver charm without the commitment of a full-size floor clock.

Buying Tips: Inspection and Questions to Ask

Whether you’re buying online or in-person, ask about movement type, service history, guarantees, and return terms. For antique models, request provenance and whether the clock has been restored. If buying online, check delivery options that include insurance and professional installation for large pieces—this can save a lot of stress and potential damage.

Complementary Pieces to Consider

To complete the look, think about pairing your clock with a tall plant or a narrow display cabinet to balance vertical lines. A well-placed rug can anchor the area, while nearby lighting highlights the clock’s dial and case. Small decorative items like a family photograph or a vase should be positioned so they don’t compete for attention—let the clock remain the star.

Final Thoughts Before You Buy

Choosing a floor or grandfather clock is a blend of emotion and practical planning. Decide whether you want the romance of a mechanical chiming piece or the convenience of a battery-powered movement. Consider room scale in feet and inches so the clock fits proportionally, and choose a retailer that offers the style and support you need—Nordic Nest for Scandinavian design, John Lewis for dependable mainstream options, Wayfair for variety, or specialist dealers for authentic antiques.

When you find the right one, a grandfather clock rewards you with decades of presence and personality. It’s less about telling time than about telling the story of your home.

Conclusion

A floor or grandfather clock can transform a room, serving as both a practical timepiece and an enduring piece of furniture. From Nordic Nest’s designer options to specialist makers and major UK retailers like John Lewis and Wayfair, there’s a clock to suit every taste and budget. Keep measurements in feet and inches, decide between mechanical or quartz movement, and think about chimes and placement. With the right choice and a little care, your clock will chime through the years and become a treasured part of your home.