Scottish Style With North of Hadrian’s
If you’ve been to Westshore Town Centre recently, you may have walked past North of Hadrian’s in their new location across from Coast Capital Savings. But there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to this full-service kilt shop. We recently sat down with Jackson Wagner, co-owner of North of Hadrian’s, to learn more about his journey, passion, and how a little joke turned into a big vision.
“My drive to be in the kilt business came mostly from a dare” says Wagner. “I was on my last military deployment and the crew I was part of began discussing what we were going to do when we each retired from the Canadian Forces. I said I might move to Vancouver Island and open a kilt shop.” And he did.
“Our opening day in Westshore was over 12 years ago. Being in the mall has given us great exposure to the community at large and we look forward to being around for a long time to come.”
The shop’s name also carries its own unique story and deep meaning for Wagner and his business partner, Justin, who landed on “North of Hadrian’s” during a brainstorming session. Inspired by Hadrian’s Wall—the northern boundary of the Roman Empire—the name reflects a sense of being rugged, rough, and untameable.
“It was literally an ah-ha moment for us” says Wagner, noting that the name captured the brand’s spirit and felt like an awesome fit.
For those curious about wearing a kilt but unsure where to start, Wagner offers simple, approachable advice: ease into it by renting a kilt for a traditional event like a Highland Games or Burns Night or jump right in and choose a tartan that speaks to you.
“If you find a tartan you like” he says, “just go for it.”
And while the shop specializes in custom kilts, there is truly something for everyone.
“We carry most of the accessories a person would need to round out their kilt outfit, and what we don’t have we can easily order. But we also carry a lot of interesting novelties—from whisky fudge to highland cow themed coffee cups. If it’s cool and Scottish, there’s a good chance we have it” says Wagner, adding that they take pride in offering many items made locally.
Looking ahead to the future of North of Hadrian’s, Wagner notes there’s lots going on with the shop heading out to multiple local events over the spring season, including the upcoming Victoria Highland Games.
“The best way to keep an eye out is to connect with us online and follow our shenanigans or visit the shop. It’s a great place with a great atmosphere.”
What began as a challenge has evolved into a business built on passion, craftsmanship, and a strong sense of identity. North of Hadrian’s is proof that sometimes the best ideas come from the most unexpected places—and that a little stubbornness can go a long way.
Be sure to visit Jackson at North of Hadrian’s at their new location inside Westshore Town Centre across from Coast Capital Savings!
From stylish threads to sweet treats, from play to going away, Westshore Town Centre offers something for the entire (read: busy!) family. Situated in the City of Langford, Westshore Town Centre’s convenient location, along with numerous retailers, such as North of Hadrian’s, allows for the quick and easy completion of one’s daily “to do” list, including getting everything you need to try a new recipe. We’ve got you covered. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on everything WTC-related!