How It Started
Ako's Vision
Hairitage opened its doors in 2020 at 6 Eastgate, Leeds - Ako alone behind the chair, carrying a craft passed down through generations. His father and grandfather had run a traditional barbershop in Kurdistan; the same warmth, the same standards, transplanted into the heart of Yorkshire. What followed was years of growth, a major renovation, and a team built on shared belief in the work. Here's how it happened.
Meet The Team"We didn't open a barbershop. We opened a standard."
Every detail at Hairitage - the chairs, the tools, the people - was chosen with intention. This is what a barbershop should feel like.
The Journey
Hairitage Through The Years
2020 - The Doors Open
Ako launched Hairitage at 6 Eastgate alone - one chair, one standard, no shortcuts. The craft had been in his family for generations; his father and grandfather had run a traditional barbershop in Kurdistan, and that same spirit found its home in Leeds city centre. It wasn't the easiest year to open, but the vision was never in doubt.
2022 - The Team Growns
Word spread quickly. Clients returned, brought friends, then started travelling - Harrogate, Wakefield, Manchester - just for a seat in the chair. Ako built his team carefully, each barber chosen for their craft and character. Hairitage was recognised as a Top Booksy Barber, and the reviews said everything: the standard was holding.
2025 - The Renovation
Five years in, Ako invested in a full renovation of the downstairs space - expanding to three chairs and building an interior that finally matched the standard of the work being done inside it. Every fixture chosen with intention. A significant investment, and exactly the right one.
2026 - Going Strong
Seven barbers. Over 8,000 clients served. Nearly a thousand five-star reviews. And customers still driving in from across Yorkshire for a seat in the chair. Hairitage is still growing - and the plans don't stop at Leeds.
Over 8000 customers
Rated 4.9 Stars
Across nearly a thousand Booksy reviews - the clients say it best.
“Hands down the best barbers in Leeds. The attention to detail is second to none - walked out feeling incredible.”
James R.
“Immaculate shop, immaculate cuts. The hot towel shave is an experience every man should have. Wouldn't go anywhere else.”
Marcus T.
“Ako and the team are exceptional. The atmosphere, the craft, the conversation - everything is on another level.”
Daniel K.