From big named brands to small, independent retailers and everything in-between, you can buy designer handbags or vintage cocktail dresses – so whether you’re a dedicated follower of fashion searching for the latest trend or someone that loves the retro look, our shops will produce the goods.
Whether you want indoor shopping centres, traditional high streets, antique emporiums or modern retail parks, you’ll be pleased with your purchases after a hard day of shopping. There is such a large range of shopping experiences in Dorset, we’re sure you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for.
Online Shopping and Home Delivery
Our small independent shops have never been so in demand and it’s great to see so many of them now offering home delivery or online shopping for those who are unable to leave their house during the coronavirus crisis.
Dorset’s butchers, bakers, fishmongers and farm shops are feeding the locals and keeping everyone’s fridges filled with fresh and tasty local produce.
Many of Dorset’s refill and plastic free shops are still open too, which means you can still be green right now and continue to save the planet.
It might be a little different when you do venture out to the shops, but be assured you’ll still get the same excellent customer service with a smile.
Help support Dorset’s economy and shop local.
Followers of fashion
For the true shopaholic wanting to get the latest look, head to Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester or Weymouth.
Get your retail therapy fix in the large department stores and well-known high street brands as well as independent fashion retailers. You can find on-trend fashion straight out of the magazines or something a little more unique and bespoke that will make your friends green with envy.
Vintage, retro and antiques
Bridport’s Art and Vintage Quarter is a well-known treasure trove of all things from years gone by. Boscombe is also becoming known as a place for vintage, antiques and bric-a-brac with a variety of independent shops, quirky cafes and individual book shops.
There are also a number of emporiums all over Dorset where groups of vintage, retro and antique dealers all sell under one roof. You can find them in Christchurch, Pokesdown, Bournemouth, Wareham, Dorchester, Sherborne, Weymouth, West Bay and Lyme Regis. And of course don’t forget the independent antique shops found in nearly every town in Dorset.
For art lovers everywhere
In Dorset, we're very lucky to have art galleries and studios in nearly every town and high street. Whether they are selling their own art or exhibiting for others, they use a huge range of mediums - from water colours and acrylics to textiles and glass. Some are lucky enough to have their art in collections worldwide and have gained national acclaim for their talents.
Strike off the beaten track for a totally different kind of retail experience and uncover potters, painters and sculptors working in remote studios across the county. Take home not only a reminder of your holiday to Dorset, but also a potential collector’s piece.
Chic, unique, boutique
Dorset’s high streets are proud of their small, independent shops selling unusual gifts, art, antiques and independent fashion.
Spend the day in Sherborne, Swanage or Wareham, have a wander around the shops and then lunch in one of the numerous cafes or restaurants.
Lyme Regis is well known for art, fossils and books relating to the Jurassic Coast and famous fossil collector Mary Anning.
The hilltop town of Shaftesbury and riverside towns of Christchurch and Wimborne Minster have not only some great shops but also picturesque scenery and plenty of options for a bite to eat.
Chic Westbourne, Bournemouth’s Westover Road and Dorchester’s Brewery Square are home to well-known high end clothing, accessory and footwear brands as well as independent boutiques – perfect for seeking out an elegant or exclusive addition to your wardrobe.
Calling all foodies
The market town of Blandford Forum is home to Badger Ales while Bridport's Palmers produces beers in a traditional thatched brewery; and there are micro-breweries all over the county, plus a couple of vineyards – so you are spoilt for choice for a tipple or two!
On nearly every day of the week there are farmers' markets selling everything from sausages and seafood to mustard and marmalade. It's a great chance to meet the producers and sample some delicious goods direct from the heart of Dorset.
And don’t forget the local farm shops too, which are jam packed with local food and drink and some of which have adjoining cafes where you can eat the local produce too.
Small Business Saturday
At the beginning of December, Small Business Saturday takes place. It’s a day when everyone is actively encouraged to shop with small, independent retailers and traders – those people who fill our Great British high streets with unique and individual shops. And it’s just those shops where you find interesting or handmade clothing, accessories or homewares that you won’t find in chain stores.
So support our small businesses and shops, and help keep our British high streets Great!
Christmas shopping
