10 Quirky Indie Shops In Bristol
Just along the M4 from Oxford, Bristol is the gateway to the West Country, and a hub for creativity, innovation and a wonderful independent business scene.
Wherever we travel, Anna and I love to seek out exciting independent shops, cafes, bars and restaurants, as, just like in Oxford, we know that we will find something unique, quirky and inspiring.
A few weeks ago we visited Bristol for a long weekend, exploring areas we hadn’t ventured into before, and some old favourites too. I love the innovative mix of independent businesses in Bristol, and how each area has it’s own vibe and character, defined by the businesses, and communities within them. From North Street to St Werburgh’s and Gloucester Road to Clifton, there is a rich diversity that makes Bristol unique.
So, after our last dose of good old Bristolian charm, these are my top 10 favourite independent shops to seek out on your next trip to the city.
Reg the Veg
Reg the Veg opened in the 1960s and still provides quality fruit and vegetables to a loyal following in Clifton. They source local and seasonal produce wherever possible, and are the supplier of choice for many Bristol bars and restaurants.
Papersmiths
Papersmiths is a gorgeous design led stationery shop with a curated collection of inspiring and intriguing goods from makers and small design businesses across the world.
Sky
Selling quirky gifts, cards and posters, Sky was set up in 1976 and showcases local artists and offers a bespoke framing service from their store in Clifton Village.
Albatross Cafe
This quirky independent cafe is a perfect spot to grab a locally roasted cup of coffee while checking out the many indie businesses along North Street in the south of the city. Plus, all the ceramics used in the cafe are made here in Oxford by Jericho Studio Pottery, and are available to purchase from the cafe.
Rhubarb Jumble
Rhubarb Jumble is a treasure trove of vintage finds including clothing, furniture and home wares. It’s a lovingly curated shop with lots of covetable mid century gems.
The Mighty Quinns Flower Emporium
Down at Wapping Wharf, a burgeoning independent business scene is thriving. Container units have enabled small businesses to get a bricks and mortar location, and The Mighty Quinns Flower Emporium is somewhere I always head to in the city. It’s full of verdant house plants and beautiful contemporary floral bouquets inspired by natural forms.
Fig 1
This store celebrates it’s creative and colourful neighbourhood, and prides itself in sourcing fairly traded products from brands such as Rice and Nkuku.
Co.Lab
A fantastic collection of gifts, clothing and home wares from local designers and makers on Gloucester Road, with the aim of supporting and promoting the local creative community.
Fox & Feather
A light and welcoming independent shop on Gloucester Road showcasing men’s and women’s fashion brands from around the world. Fox & Feather also houses Stil, a scandi inspired home ware collection from small businesses and local designers.
Iota
Iota is based on Gloucester Road too, UK’s longest stretch of independent shops, and is a great place to find gifts and colourful accessories.
As a big fan of independent businesses, and the diversity and creativity they offer, Bristol is a great city to explore. I’ve only scratched the surface on this trip, and I can’t wait to visit again and discover more of the city’s thriving indie community.
Love, Rosie xxx
