Here is our little guide to some of the amazing and unique shops that Lewes has to offer, so here is our Lewes shopping guide to help you find some lovely unique places to see and shop in our lovely town!
We must, of course, start with The Needlemakers where we are based. This fascinating building dates back to 1821 where Broads candles were once made. Old brickwork, cobbled floors and huge wooden beams are a reminder of the buildings industrial past. During WW1 surgical needles were manufactured here but now it houses a thriving café and some wonderful independent shops.
The café is at the centre of the building is our very welcome neighbour! Delicious homemade cakes and great lunch time treats keep it busy all day. The bustling atmosphere and eclectic décor makes this the hub of the building.
An exciting new shop that has recently burst onto The Needlemakers scene is Popsicle. Colour popping home wares and gifts are an exciting addition downstairs in the building. Contemporary, modern and fun Popsicle showcases a great mix of talented designers who have a love for colour and style.
Somewhat of an institution, the Patchwork Dog and Basket (http://www.patchworkdogandbasket.co.uk) is a must stop shop for all keen quilt makers and haberdashery lovers. The selection of fabrics that this small shop has to offer is incredible as well as a vast array of ribbons, buttons and trimmings. Customers travel from far afield to the Patchwork Dog for both the expert advice and to see the shops cute little dog Freddie!
Mary’s is a fantastic shop housing the brand Mary Fellows. Personalised mugs, cards and cufflinks are great gifts that are all designed in Mary’s signature style. With a background in print making, Mary has applied her skills to ceramics creating some unique pieces to treat either yourself or others. Combine these bespoke products with some quirky gifts and old fashioned sweets and you have a shop that’s well worth a visit!
From Victoria is a beautiful shop creating some pretty porcelain ceramics made in house. Pastel coloured vases and bowls with intricate lace details are simply beautiful and the cards and stationary in stock are some of the most unique we have seen! Combine Victoria’s work with her antique finds and a passion for old cameras and photography for a shop for creative with an eye for style.
For a bookshop with a difference, visit Skylark. Beautifully designed books for both adults and children, Skylark is passionate about the books that it sells. Ranging from mainstream authors to those less well known there are titles for everyone. Skylark specialises in travel writing and nature as well as selling textiles from India, glassware from Bolivia and bags from Cambodia.
On the high street, Lewes excels in independent stores with a difference.
One of our favourites is Kings Framers http://www.kingsframers.com/ A bright and bold this framing shop is full of wonderful books, ribbons, candles and cards. Carefully chosen products which are always displayed in an amazing way! This shop never disappoints and the owner, Peta, is always searching for stock to keep the shop on top of its game
Flint http://www.flintcollection.com/ is a beautiful shop, calm, serene and ultimately tasteful, Flint offers fragrances from Miller Harris and True Grace alongside Persephone Books and delicately coloured roses.
A gentleman’s outfitters full of class is Paul Clarke. Men and women alike will love this store as it is styled so beautifully. Dark walls, vintage hand mirrors and a wonderful cash register add to the feel of the shop. A perfect place to pick up a cashmere scarf, old fashioned shaving set or a panama hat!www.paulclarkclothiers.com/
For a exciting store crammed full of interesting goodies you need to pay a visit to Wickle! http://www.wickle.co.uk/ Wickle also houses a little tea room which serves yummy cakes and pots of tea. Brilliant for childrens clothes and toys but also for snuggly blankets, lampshades and handmade soaps.
The Laurels is the perfect place for the perfect gift. The shop has a huge selection of the well coveted Orla Kiely range alongside handmade clothes for children. Our favourites are their wonderful range of coloured sheepskin rugs and mohair blankets. Perfect for when Autumn drawers near! www.thelaurelsonline.co.uk/
Lewes also has a huge amount of antique shops and flea markets. So for a perfect way to while away the hours discovering some unique finds and interesting collectables head to the bottom of the town for a potter around some of our more eclectic shops!
