SHOPLOCAL
KENT ' S BEST INDEPENDENT SHOPPING HOTSPOTS CONT .
GARAGE COFFEE
The King ’ s Mile , Canterbury
Classic cobbled streets , steeped in history and overlooked by the magnificent Cathedral , Canterbury ’ s King ’ s Mile is the picture perfect spot , and what ' s more , the stores here are just as lovely as the legendary setting . From chic boutique clothing , bespoke jewellers and gifts , to greeting cards galore and artisan specialists , the collection of streets that lay beneath the Cathedral are the ultimate haven for anyone seeking an authentic feel and taste for the city . Emphasis on the taste , as a trip to Canterbury ' s King ’ s Mile wouldn ’ t be accomplished without a stop at some of the foodie gems !
Head down the rabbit hole that is Walrus and Oyster , this place is the ultimate treasure trove of unique gifts and creations for Kent artisan businesses . Independent artisan chocolatier , Madame Oiseau are the chocolate experts , offering fresh handmade goodies using only the finest ingredients , you definitely won ’ t leave empty handed from here . For something a little more savoury head to The Cheese Shop and sample the most amazing handmade cheeses – great inspo for the next cheese and wine party ! And if you fancy coffee , stop by Burgate or Garage Coffee , they ’ ll be sure to satisfy even the fussiest of coffee snobs . Fancy a healthy lunch ? Go plant-based and head to the Veg Box Café for food that does good and tastes even better !
If it ’ s jewellery you ’ re after , The King ’ s Mile is the indie destination for you . Canterbury is brimming with fantastic jewellers . Find Fitzgerald , the kings of traditional , handmade , bespoke jewellery , Ortwin Thyssen which creates the most magical fine jewellery pieces , or head to Sun Street and admire the breathtaking windows at Justin Richardson , they ’ re pretty spectacular . For something a little more contemporary and perhaps affordable , a visit to 925 Silver should tick all the boxes – their extensive collection is beautiful and the perfect shop for everyday gifts . They ’ ve got everything covered here .
Tenterden
Otherwise known as the jewel of the Weald , the quaint tree-lined town of Tenterden is bursting with a wealth of quirky independent shops . Wander through the little side streets and admire the architectural delights – cobbled alleys and timber framed buildings , as well as the beautiful medieval church of St . Mildred ' s nestled just behind the high street .
First , head to Sawyers Lane , the town ’ s central hub and home to a handful of independent coffee shops , cafes and boutiques . Stop for breakfast at The Nutmeg Delicatessen , this cosy little space serves up delicious coffee , pastries and artisan produce – and the best part ? They even have some local produce on display for you to purchase . A walk down Sawyers Lane , wouldn ’ t be complete without a little trip to Woodcocks , the interior shop of dreams , this place specialises in English upholstery from John Sankey , Tamarisk and Michael Tyler and the furniture pieces are just stunning . They also have wonderful lighting pieces and home accessories – a chic photo-perfect space , well worthy of a visit .. Just around the corner , you ’ ll find family-run boutique Love Figis , stocking brands such a Victoria , Scotch and Soda , and Kate Spade . Here , sisters Amy and Laura know and love all things fashion . Of course , a stop at Ibbidi Bobbidi Boo should be on the cards , and not just because it ’ s got the best name ever ! This family-run cosy boutique offers a curated selection of Italian gems – the go to indie shop for affordable beautifully made oneoff womenswear .
56