String Instruments Services 

Violin and Cello Repairers

If you're looking for violin and cello repairers in North London, you'll find a range of skilled luthiers offering high-quality string instrument repairs, restorations, and maintenance. Whether you need a minor adjustment, a bridge replacement, a bow rehair, or a full restoration, London is home to experienced specialists dedicated to the care of violins, cellos, and other orchestral strings. Check out the curated list of local experts we've put together for you below.

Please note that we now offer inhouse bow rehair and repair services from our North London workshop too. Contact us for more info

My Luthier

0330 133 4225

Services:

*instrument repairs

*bow rehairs

*instrument passport

*private sales

Bridgewood & Neitzert

enquiries@bridgewoodandneitzert.london

020 7249 9398

Services:

*instrument repairs

*bow repairs

*rentals

*instrument insurance

*sales

Stringers of London

contact@stringerslondon.com

020 7224 9099

Services:

*instrument repairs

*bow rehairs/repairs

*rental

*part exchange

*insurance appraisals and valuations

*instrument travel documents

If you’re offering string instruments repairs and would like to be added to our listings please get in contact.

Violin and Cello Sales and Valuations

If you're looking to buy violins, cellos, or other string instruments in North London, you'll find a number of trusted shops and specialist dealers offering quality instruments for players of all levels. Whether you're a beginner searching for your first student outfit or a professional looking to invest in a handcrafted instrument, London is home to expert retailers who can guide you through the process. Many also offer instrument trials, part-exchange, and rent-to-buy options. Explore our list of local string instrument sellers below to find the right match for your musical needs.

Bishops Instruments and Bows

sean@bishopstrings.com

07905 344220

Instrument sales, valuations, insurance, and certificates

Ingles & Hayday

info@ingleshayday.com

0207 042 7337

Auctions, private sales and valuations

Amati

020 7099 7114

Instrument purchases and sales, valuations, auctions

Frequently Asked Questions

  • You might need to repair your violin if you notice buzzing or rattling noises while playing, which can indicate loose parts or internal issues. Visible cracks or separations in the wood, especially around the seams or f-holes, are also signs of damage. Tuning problems caused by slipping or sticking pegs, as well as a warped or fallen bridge, can affect both playability and sound. Loose fine tuners or a wobbly tailpiece may lead to tuning instability. Finally, if the sound quality suddenly becomes muffled, weak, or uneven, it’s a good idea to have your instrument checked by a qualified luthier.

    • Bridge replacement or adjustment

    • Soundpost adjustment or reset

    • Open seam gluing (when the violin body starts to separate)

    • Peg fitting or bushing

    • Fingerboard planing

    • String replacement

    • Crack repair

    • Bow rehairing

  • For regular players, it’s recommended to have an annual check-up to ensure the instrument stays in top condition. During this check-up, a luthier can inspect for open seams or cracks, assess the alignment of the soundpost and bridge, and evaluate the overall tone and playability of the violin. Regular maintenance helps prevent small issues from becoming major problems and keeps the instrument sounding its best.

  • A well-made violin typically features a solid carved spruce top and maple back, fitted ebony fingerboard and pegs, an even varnish finish, a straight, properly positioned bridge, and good string height for comfortable playability.

  • Buying a violin in person allows you to try the instrument before purchasing, benefit from expert guidance, and usually includes professional setup. Purchasing online offers a wider range of options and can sometimes be more affordable, but it's important to buy only from reputable retailers and plan to have the instrument properly set up afterward for optimal performance.

  • Essential violin accessories include rosin for the bow, a shoulder rest for comfort and support, extra strings in case of breakage, a soft cleaning cloth to keep the instrument clean, a tuner or metronome to aid in practice, and a music stand for holding sheet music during play.