The South West is home to many vibrant towns invigorating their highstreets with unique, independent shops and restaurants. A slow Saturday exploring these creative towns and stopping for a bite to eat is our idea of a Saturday well spent.

Why shop independent?

Shopping small or independent means to become a more conscious consumer. It means supporting local economies, fostering a sense of community and celebrating craftsmanship. According to Indie Retail, for every £1 spent with a local, independent business, between 50p-70p circulates back into the local economy. In contrast, if you buy online or at corporate, out of town retailers, it’s only around 5p which makes it back into the local community.

Where to shop independent in the South West

If we’re not browsing beautifully curated independent shops, you’ll find us looking for vintage treasures in antique shops. For some of our favourites, take a look at our list of the best towns for antique shopping.

Frome

Frome is a creative market town located 13 miles south of Bath in Somerset. It draws visitors for its popular market days, notably The Frome Independent, and its array of independent boutiques nestled around the St Catherine’s area. Frome’s so-called ‘artisan quarter’ is made up of Catherine Hill – a steep cobbled street of independent shops and cafes, and nearby Paul Street, Palmer Street and Stony Street. Cheap Street is another popular shopping street a few minutes walk from St Catherine’s.

• Pilea (beautiful houseplant shop)
• Bramble & Wild (pretty florist)
• Neighbour (a mix of vintage and new homewares and utility items)
• Frome Hardware (a shop for practical yet beautiful everyday products)
• The Golden Goose (gifts and homewares)
• Seed (dedicated to British design and emerging creative talent)
• French General Trading (French brocante antiques meets wine bar)

Read our full slow travel guide to Frome for more inspiration on where to eat, sleep and slow down.

Totnes

Totnes is a bohemian, creative market town situated on the River Dart in Devon. The town is known for its arts scene and has become a hub for sustainability. Totnes is part of the Transition Towns movement, which encourages community activism to support the local economy, reduce environmental impact and promote self-sufficiency.

Totnes is renowned for its independent shops and cafes. From vintage clothing to homewares, there’s a huge array to explore here.

• Butterworth’s Vintage Company (vintage menswear and workwear)
• Gazebo (gifts and lifestyle accessories)
• Butterwalk (sustainable department store)
• The Forest & Co (women’s clothing and homewares)
• Me and East (artisan gifts)
• SMALL-FOLK (toys and clothing made from sustainable materials for babies, children and women)

Ashburton

Ashburton is a small market down in Devon, located on the southern edge of Dartmoor National Park. It’s home to some great cafes and restaurants, including Osteria Emilia and Rafikis. Creamo’s craft ice cream is always worth a visit for unusual flavours too. Ashburton is the perfect destination for vintage lovers as antique shops line the streets. The beautifully curated Craftmongers is also a highlight in Ashburton and showcases artisan products from 60 different local and international makers.

Bruton

Bruton is a pretty town situated in a valley along the River Brue. In recent years, this Somerset destination has been gaining popularity with well-heeled visitors. Weekenders can jump on the train in London and escape to Somerset’s fresh air and rolling hills with the added bonus of fantastic local restaurants and a spot of culture. A big draw is Hauser + Wirth Somerset, home to contemporary art and beautiful landscaped gardens designed by Piet Oudolf. Notable restaurants in Bruton include the Michelin-starred Osip, Roth Bar & Grill, At The Chapel, Matt’s Kitchen and The Old Pharmacy, a sister bistro to Osip. The small town of Bruton is also home to a number of independent shops worth visiting.

• Durslade Farm Shop (situated at Hauser + Wirth)
• Make Hauser + Wirth (gallery)
• Godminster Cheese
• Swan Vintage (clothing)

For more inspiration in the South West, read our slow travel guide to Bath and our list of the best seasonal restaurants in the West Country.

Slow Travel