Imagine a picture-perfect medieval English village where time has stood still for centuries but where there is a thriving shopping scene—and not a chain store in sight.
The picturesque village of Lavenham in Suffolk has been dubbed “a photographer’s dream” with its rows of colourful and crooked historic timbered buildings. Inside them you will find beautiful independently owned shops, galleries and boutiques who all contribute to the wonderful, thriving business community, championing the ‘shop small, shop local’ ethos according to lovelavenham.co.uk.
They say: “You’ll be tempted by antiques, artwork by established local artists, bespoke custom made jewellery, ethical childrenswear and toys, seasonal fashion collections and stylish lifestyle gifts. Whether you need to pack a picnic or stock up on some essentials, you will find everything from freshly baked bread, brimming deli counters, local meats and produce, homemade pies, cheeses and wine, right on your doorstep. If you are feeling a little ‘under the weather’ we even have a friendly pharmacy too!”
Better still, Lavenham offers free parking, including electric charging points, and complimentary maps to guide you around the village so you don’t miss a single thing!
Lavenham has over 30 independent shops and art galleries, offering a unique shopping experience. The village also hosts farmers’ markets and other events.
Lavenham Farmers Market, officially the best farmers market in Suffolk, is held on the fourth Sunday of every month and is currently held entirely outside Lavenham Village Hall, plus a small number of craft stalls in the front room of the village hall.
But what of the shops? First up has to be Byron and the Bard, a beautiful independent bookshop full of nooks and crannies and books of course. Bookworms can find everything they need here a wide selection of childrens books, travel books and books full of mystery.
Hollibel’s is the place to stop if you want to make your dog the talk of the town with a top-quality collar or lead, choosing from a variety of stunning fabrics and leathers, and browsing the extensive range of dog accessories. Or maybe a luxury dog bed made in the UK. And there are their own complimentary preservative-free, 100% natural dog treats for your posh pooch to try out.
Hollibel’s also makes its own-brand range of dog shampoo, paw balm and relaxing sprays. Every item is full of dog-friendly, skin-softening ingredients.
LoveLavenham.co.uk adds: “Hollibels is passionate about creating a range of own brand products either made in-house or using British manufacturers whilst sourcing British raw materials.”
If jewellery is your thing, then be sure to visit Jonathan Lambert, a bespoke jeweller who creates timeless pieces that you’ll love for a lifetime. Since 1800, when Francis Lambert opened his business in Piccadilly and attracted patronage from Queen Victoria and the Prince of Wales, the Lambert family has been crafting fine jewellery. Today, the royal connections continue with collections of jewellery created for the Royal Collection Trust, and a commemorative piece created for the late Queen’s platinum jubilee.
Jonathan (an accomplished goldsmith and descendent of the Lambert family) and Yasmin (Central Saint Martin trained) welcome shoppers to browse their unique collection of stunning fine and silver jewellery. They offer an appointment service if you’re looking for that something extra special and want to create your own ring, necklace or bracelet to mark a special occasion.
They have an in-house workshop, where their talented team can remodel almost any piece of jewellery, undertaking everything from general repairs to intricate antique restoration. Or if it’s all a bit out of your price range you can always stand in the street and admire their dazzling window collection.
Next up is Pickles & Lillies, selling cute outfits and toys for the little ones in your lives. Peering in through the beautifully decorated windows, you’ll find a bright array of organic cotton clothing for children from newborn to 10 years, as well as a huge range of traditional wooden games, plush soft toys and beautiful baby products and accessories.
Another gem is Posy, a gorgeous gift shop where every surface is adorned with unique finds, hand-made items for the home, hand-poured candles and fragrant soaps, pretty cards and gift wraps, tiny toys and beautiful, statement jewellery.
Retail Therapy is boutique heaven for ladies who love to shop for clothes. Many items are made in Italy. Among the designers are Luella, Great Plains, and Rino & Pelle clothing, with styles to suit every age, shape, and size. They also stock Powell Craft nightwear and 100 Stars loungewear, a British-designed and ethically made range that flatters all sizes.
After a busy day shopping, walking, taking photographs, or simply absorbing the history of this magical Medieval village, you will probably need something to eat.
Lavenham has plenty of independent tea rooms and cafes (you won’t find a Starbucks!), but there is an ice-cream parlour making their own glorious ice cream. The Nook Readers Cafe and Bookshop offers coffee, reading, and toasties too.
The village also boasts three pubs: The Bull, the Lavenham Greyhound and The Cock Horse Inn, voted Best Pub and Best Restaurant in Suffolk in 2021.