Middlesborough tattoo studio makes its mark

A Middlesbrough tattoo studio has quickly etched out a reputation for success since opening last year.

Iron Hills Tattoo Co, founded by couples Paul Watson and Danyell Watson, and Geoff Wharton and Abi Flanagan, has quickly established itself in Teesside’s growing tattoo scene.

The studio’s artists have already enjoyed success on the awards circuit, with Paul recognised at the Ink on the Tees convention and Chloe Gilkes-Bullock, one of six artists working at Iron Hills, recently winning three awards at the Big North Tattoo Show in Newcastle, which attracted tattoo professionals from around the world.

Located near the Dundas Shopping Centre, Iron Hills Tattoo Co employs six artists and has exceeded its founders’ expectations since launching last year.

The business has focused on creating an accessible and welcoming environment, with facilities including wheelchair access and a disability toilet, while also catering for neurodivergent customers. 

Artists are available seven days a week.

Paul, who has tattoos over more than half of his body, says he is not planning to stop any time soon. 

He said: “I’ve got my back and stomach left really, and then just gaps. 

“I don’t think I’d ever be done.  

“Even if I was totally full, I’d just start getting ones over the top of the ones I’ve already got.”

However, he admits that he does find it painful, adding: “I don’t think anybody enjoys getting tattooed and us artists are the worst.”

Paul added: “I think the industry’s changed and it’s more socially acceptable to be tattooed. It’s not so much of a rebellion now.”

The studio’s name combines a nod to Teesside’s steelmaking heritage with a reference to a fictional location from The Lord of the Rings, while its anvil logo reflects both the region’s industrial past and a personal connection for the founders, Paul and Danyell Watson, who have matching anvil tattoos to commemorate their wedding in Gretna Green.

Iron Hills is also part of a wider wave of independent businesses opening in and around the Dundas Shopping Centre, contributing to renewed activity in the area.

Danyell added: “We just really love being in Middlesbrough.  

“We want some more small businesses around here to bring people in. 

“The area’s dwindling in some places but coming up in others.”

Richard Wilson, a partner with Portland Dodds Brown, which manages the Centre and neighbouring shops on behalf of the owner, added: “These are challenging times for businesses, but we try to give them as much support as possible.  

“It so good to see Iron Hills doing so well, not just with the awards but with the number of customers coming to the studio.

“Middlesbrough town centre has been badly affected by the closure of some big name shops, so it is so encouraging to see that a number of independent businesses have opened.  

“I’m sure that’s the right path for Middlesbrough’s future.”

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