Strathaven, South Lanarkshire — After more than two centuries of serving the community, Scotland’s oldest bakery, Alexander Taylor, is up for sale. Barry and Claire Taylor, the current custodians and sixth-generation owners, have decided to pass the torch, marking the end of an era for the historic establishment.
Barry and Claire Taylor took over the bakery 28 years ago, continuing a family legacy that began in 1820. The couple met while studying painting at art school in Cheltenham, never expecting that their artistic paths would lead them back to Barry’s hometown to manage the family business. “The clues were there,” Claire reflected, recalling the bakery van with “Alexander Taylor” emblazoned on the side during their college days. “It was just circumstances in the end, we were in the right place at the right time.”
A Legacy of Adaptation and Innovation
Alexander Taylor Bakery has been a cornerstone of Strathaven since its inception. Originally one of seven bakeries in the town, it is now the sole survivor, a testament to its resilience and adaptability. Barry recounted how his ancestors, initially farmers, ventured into baking, with parish records documenting their purchase of building materials for the bakery’s establishment.
Each generation of the Taylor family has left its mark on the bakery, evolving it to meet the needs of the times. The Victorian era saw Barry’s great-grandfather expand the bakery, while the 1920s brought new opportunities as Strathaven became a popular stop for day-trippers. “There weren’t catering companies, so people relied on the bakeries,” Barry explained.
“We’ve come full circle, people are really appreciating the places that are unique to their area again and I think we’ve become an institution in Strathaven,” Claire said.
The Modern Era and Future Prospects
Under Barry and Claire’s stewardship, the bakery has embraced change, experimenting with new recipes and concepts. Claire even organized pop-up art exhibitions in the storeroom, blending their artistic background with their business. The bakery is now renowned for its sourdough, a product Barry began baking before its popularity surged.
Despite the bakery’s success, the couple is ready to return to their creative roots. “We’ve always known that we can’t do what we do forever and we feel like we have put a long shift in,” Claire remarked. While a seventh generation of Taylors could have continued the legacy, Barry and Claire believe selling is the best decision for the business and their family.
Family and Community: A Shared Journey
The Taylor children, who grew up around the bakery, have chosen different paths, with one at university and the other pursuing a career in cycling. “They have a great enthusiasm and respect for what we do but it’s something I don’t think they should feel burdened with,” Claire noted.
During the pandemic lockdown, the family worked together, creating cherished memories. “It’s probably my favorite memory from the last 35 years working here,” Claire said. However, she acknowledges that the bakery may not align with their children’s future plans.
“In any other walk of life you wouldn’t necessarily expect that you would do the same job as your parents have done,” Claire said, highlighting the unique nature of family-run businesses.
The End of an Era and New Beginnings
As Barry and Claire prepare to sell the bakery, they reflect on its role as a community institution. “People are met here with a friendly face and we’re part of a mix of things that make this town what it is,” Claire emphasized. The couple hopes that new owners will continue the bakery’s legacy, bringing fresh enthusiasm and ideas.
The sale of Alexander Taylor Bakery marks a significant moment in Strathaven’s history, but it also opens the door for new chapters, both for the Taylors and the community. As the bakery transitions to new ownership, its story of tradition, adaptation, and community spirit is set to continue.
