Clarks marks 200 years with star-studded documentary celebrating its Somerset roots

Clarks is celebrating its 200th anniversary with a documentary that tells the story of its journey from a small workshop in Street to a globally recognised brand.

From Somerset to the World is directed by Set Free Richardson and narrated by American rapper and actor Yasiin Bey. It explores Clarks' evolution, its impact on music and fashion, and its deep-rooted cultural significance.

The documentary features a diverse line-up of contributors, including musicians Liam Gallagher, Raekwon and Ghostface Killah, British-Jamaican designer Martine Rose, and Shanghai brand DOE founder Terry Zhu. Local heritage is also represented, with Tim Crumplin, archivist at the Shoemakers Museum, offering insight into the brand's Somerset origins and its historic collections.

Crumplin reflected on Clarks' beginnings in 1825, explaining how its founders, Cyrus and James Clark, created the first sheepskin slipper in a time before railways, telephones, or motor vehicles. He said: "Somerset in 1825 was relatively cut off from the rest of the country, which required self-sufficiency and encouraged the Clark family to do things differently."

The film explores Clarks' unexpected influence on global subcultures, particularly in Jamaica and during hip-hop's golden era in America. It also touches on the brand's longstanding reputation for quality and comfort, from school shoes to the iconic Desert Boot and Wallabee.

Liam Gallagher, who is set to launch his second Clarks collaboration this year, described his connection to the brand: "My earliest memories of Clarks are from school—everyone was wearing them. I wore Clarks all the way through the '90s. I don't think there's any other brand for me, really."

Martine Rose added: "Whenever your child gets their first pair of shoes, Clarks is the first place you go."

Today, Clarks operates in over 100 markets worldwide, but its roots remain firmly in Somerset.

The full documentary can be watched here: Clarks 200 film.