Traditional Hand Forged Latches

Suffolk Thumb Latches

A Suffolk latch uses a thumb piece on one face of the door to lift a horizontal latch bar on the other, allowing the door to be operated from both sides. It is commonly used on ledged-and-braced internal doors, cupboards and traditional timber joinery. Our Suffolk Latches collection includes traditional, fine-handle and T-bar patterns, together with black, pewter and a coated exterior option. Check the individual listing before using any latch outdoors, as suitability differs by construction and finish.

Gothic Latches

Gothic latches use the same bar-and-thumb principle but add an arrow-ended or shaped backplate. The Gothic Latches collection includes standard, heavy and larger patterns, as well as Tuscan variants. Compare the overall dimensions, handle length and door proportions rather than choosing by name alone.

Cottage Latches and Handing

Cottage latches use a lift-and-release mechanism and are supplied in left- and right-hand versions. The standard black beeswax and pewter styles in our Cottage Latches collection are cast iron rather than hand forged and are intended for internal use. Tudor cottage latches provide specified options for internal or external doors. Use the product handing diagram before ordering, as the left- or right-hand designation depends on the door orientation and viewing side.

For diagrams and practical selection advice, read our complete guide to traditional cottage latches.

Latch Sets for One-Sided Access

A latch set is useful when a door or cupboard only needs to be operated from one side and a through-door thumb piece is unnecessary. The Traditional Latch Sets range includes arrow-end, penny-end, screw-on staple and T-bar versions in coordinating finishes. Privacy latches are also included, but these are cast rather than hand forged. Check the product contents and fixing method, as the sets are not all supplied in exactly the same form.

Keepers, Staples and Privacy Accessories

A keeper receives the latch bar when the door closes, while staples guide or retain the bar on the door. The Traditional Latch Accessories collection includes screw-on and knock-in staples, locking staples, keepers and replacement parts in matching styles. Locking staples can add simple privacy to a suitable internal door, but they are not a primary security lock. Match the accessory to the latch pattern and dimensions rather than assuming every part is interchangeable.

Choosing a Finish and Checking Exterior Suitability

A traditional appearance does not automatically mean that a product is suitable for outdoor use. Black beeswax products are generally intended for dry internal locations and need routine care. Pewter-finish suitability varies by product. For gates, outbuildings and exposed timber, choose a latch specifically described as suitable for exterior use, such as the relevant Armor-Coat or Tudor option.

Also check compatibility when fitting to acidic timbers such as Accoya or preservative-treated softwood, where standard fittings may corrode more quickly. Use the supplied or recommended fixings and follow the care instructions stated on the product page.

Helpful Latch Guides

• How to Fit a Suffolk Latch – step-by-step fitting for a traditional thumb latch.
• Suffolk Latch Explained – answers to common questions about operation, door types and selection.
• Traditional Cottage Latches – guidance on handing, finishes and fitting.
• Traditional Latch Accessories – help with replacement parts, keepers, staples and privacy options.
• Latch Sets for One-Sided Access – choosing and installing a latch set without a through-door thumb piece.
• History of the Suffolk Latch – background on this long-established form of door hardware.

For matching hinges, bolts, pulls and traditional fixings, browse our wider Traditional Door Hardware range.