This July 6th and 7th, join the nationwide celebration of Independents' Day UK! It's a fantastic time to champion the heart and soul of our high streets - the independent shops that bring unique personality and character to our towns and communities.

Sussex, with its charming villages and bustling coastal towns, boasts a thriving independent shopping scene. Ditch the big-name brands and embark on a treasure hunt through these stores, where you'll find handcrafted delights, quirky finds, and exceptional customer service.

Here's a sneak peek into some of the best independent shops participating in Independents' Day across Sussex:

Petworth: Unveiling Treasures, New and Old

Petworth, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of West Sussex, offers a captivating blend of history and contemporary charm, particularly for those who appreciate the thrill of the hunt when searching for those independent gems.

Petworth Independents'

A Haven for Antique Aficionados

Step back in time and explore over 20 specialist antique dealers in Petworth. These treasure troves offer a mesmerising array of finds, from exquisite antique furniture and one-of-a-kind vintage jewellery to rare books that will send bibliophiles into a frenzy. Unearth unique collectibles to add a touch of history and conversation-starting pieces to your home.

Beyond Antiques: A Vibrant Shopping Scene

Petworth's charm extends far beyond its captivating antiques. Independent boutiques line the streets, showcasing a curated selection of contemporary fashion, homeware, and gifts. Indulge in retail therapy and discover hidden gems you won't find on the high street.

A Feast for the Senses

Art galleries showcasing the works of talented local artists add a touch of creativity to Petworth's shopping experience. And for the true foodie, a visit to the tempting cheese room is a must. Here, you'll discover a delightful selection of local and international cheeses, perfect for creating a gourmet cheeseboard or indulging in a decadent treat.

Fresh Local Produce

No exploration of Petworth is complete without sampling the town's delectable culinary offerings. Independent bakeries, butchers, fishmongers, and delicatessens brim with fresh, locally sourced produce. Stock up on ingredients for a delicious home-cooked meal or a delightful picnic in the picturesque Petworth Park.

More Than Just Shopping

Petworth offers a delightful blend of retail therapy and historical exploration. Visit the majestic Petworth House, delve into the town's rich heritage at the Petworth Museum, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens of Petworth Park.

Escape the ordinary and embark on a shopping adventure in Petworth! Unearth hidden treasures, from vintage delights to artisan crafts. Savour the taste of Sussex with fresh local produce, and be captivated by the charm of this historic town.​

East Wittering: Seaside Charm Meets Shopping Delights

Dreaming of the perfect English seaside escape? Look no further than East Wittering, a charming village nestled on the Sussex coast. Beyond its award-winning beaches and sparkling turquoise waters, East Wittering boasts a delightful high street brimming with independent shops, making it a haven for both sun-seekers and shopping enthusiasts.

East Wittering Independents'

A Treasure Trove for Every Need

East Wittering's independent shops offer a refreshing alternative to generic chain stores. Here, you'll find friendly local businesses catering to all your seaside needs.

  • Fresh from Farm to Fork: Stock up on the freshest local produce at the butcher, greengrocer, baker, and fishmonger. Savour the taste of Sussex with seasonal fruits and vegetables, succulent cuts of meat, and the daily catch straight from the sea.

  • Souvenir Secrets: Discover unique treasures that will bring back lasting memories of your seaside escape. Explore charming gift shops brimming with locally crafted keepsakes or unearth vintage gems waiting for a new home in your collection.

  • Catching the Wave: Surfers rejoice! East Wittering caters to your aquatic adventures with dedicated surf shops offering the latest gear and expert advice.

  • Family Fun: Keep the little ones entertained with a visit to the well-stocked toy shop, where they can discover new games and beachy toys. Adults can also get in on the fun by exploring the treasure trove of finds at the local charity shops.

A Culinary Journey

No seaside trip is complete without indulging in delicious food. East Wittering offers a delectable variety of restaurants catering to every palate. From fresh seafood dishes and vegetarian delights to classic fish and chips, you're sure to find the perfect meal to refuel after a day of exploring.

More Than Just Shopping

East Wittering's charm extends beyond its shops. Soak up the sun on the award-winning Blue Flag beach, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the surrounding coastline dotted with charming beach huts.

Pack your swimsuit, grab your reusable shopping bag, and head to East Wittering for a quintessential English seaside experience.

Chichester: Where History Meets Chic in a Celebration of Independent Shops

Enchanting Chichester, with its rich Roman heritage and magnificent cathedral, offers more than just a glimpse into the past. Nestled amidst its historical streets lies a vibrant scene of independent shops, waiting to be explored.

Chichester Independents'

A Shopping Experience Steeped in Character

Chichester's independent shops are far from the homogenous chains found in modern shopping centres. Here, you'll find a delightful mix of contemporary and traditional stores, each brimming with unique character and personality - you can find some of our must-visits here.

Independent Delights Around Every Corner

  • Fashion Forward: Indulge in a spot of retail therapy by browsing charming boutiques showcasing the latest trends in contemporary fashion and homeware. From statement pieces to timeless classics, you're sure to find something special to add a touch of personality to your wardrobe or home.

  • A Haven for Artisan Crafts: Discover a treasure trove of artisan crafts in independent stores showcasing the work of talented local artists. Whether you're seeking a one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery, a handcrafted ceramic mug, or a unique piece of art, Chichester's independent shops have something for every taste.

  • A Culinary Adventure: Embark on a global culinary adventure through Chichester's specialist food shops. Explore stores brimming with international delicacies or savour the taste of Sussex by picking up fresh, locally sourced produce at farm shops and delis.

Where Past and Present Collide

The charm of Chichester's independent scene lies not just in the unique products but also in the historic setting. As you wander through the charming lanes lined with independent shops, you'll be stepping back in time, surrounded by the city's rich architectural heritage.

More Than Just Shopping

Chichester offers a delightful blend of shopping and sightseeing. Explore the magnificent Chichester Cathedral, delve into Roman history at the Fishbourne Roman Palace, or stroll through the tranquil beauty of the Bishop's Palace Gardens.

Plan your next shopping spree in Chichester? Explore a vibrant scene of independent shops, discover hidden treasures, and experience the unique blend of history and contemporary charm that this captivating city offers.

Midhurst: A Delightful Detour for Foodies and Artisan Hunters

Venture beyond the well-trodden tourist path and discover Midhurst, a charming market town nestled amidst the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park.

Midhurst Independents'

A Gastronomic Adventure Awaits

Midhurst's streets are lined with independent food shops, each a treasure trove for the discerning palate. Unlike the generic supermarkets found in larger towns, these independent stores offer a curated selection of high-quality ingredients and delectable treats you won't find anywhere else. Discover our hand-picked selection here.

Tantalise Your Taste Buds

  • Fresh-Baked Delights: Indulge in the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from artisan bakeries. Stock up on crusty loaves, flaky pastries, and decadent cakes – perfect for a picnic in the picturesque South Downs or a delightful breakfast treat.

  • Award-Winning Butchers: Meat lovers will rejoice at the selection of award-winning butchers in Midhurst. Here, you can purchase high-quality cuts of locally sourced meat, perfect for grilling up a storm or creating a hearty Sunday roast.

  • A Cheese Lover's Dream: Cheese aficionados won't be disappointed. Specialty cheese shop offer a wide variety of regional and international cheeses, alongside knowledgeable staff who can help you discover the perfect cheese pairing for any occasion.

Beyond the Food

Midhurst's independent spirit extends beyond its food scene. Explore unique shops selling handcrafted jewellery, locally produced homewares, and one-of-a-kind artwork. You're sure to find a special souvenir or a thoughtful gift for a loved one.

A Feast for All Senses

Midhurst offers more than just culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the town's rich history at the Midhurst Museum, explore the ruins of its medieval castle, or take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Rother.

Take a delightful detour to Midhurst, a charming market town. Embark on a taste bud tantalising journey through independent food shops, unearth hidden treasures crafted by local artisans, and soak up the charm of this royal historic town.​

Selsey: A Hidden Gem on the Sussex Coast

Looking to escape the crowds and discover a unique seaside haven? Look no further than Selsey, a charming coastal town nestled on the tip of the Manhood Peninsula, on the outskirts of Chichester. Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbours, Selsey offers a delightful surprise for those seeking a taste of authentic Sussex charm.

Selsey Independents'

Independent Shopping Paradise

Beyond its stunning beaches and rich maritime history, Selsey boasts a thriving scene of independent shops waiting to be explored. Unlike the generic chains found in larger towns, Selsey's independent stores offer a curated selection of unique products and personalised service you won't find anywhere else.

Unveiling Local Treasures

  • Art Lovers Rejoice: Indulge your artistic side by exploring the Sea Art Trail  showcasing the works of talented Sussex artists or get hands-on experience at Chisel Pottery Studio.

  • A Feast for the Senses: Selsey's unique character extends to its food scene. Discover farm shops overflowing with fresh, locally sourced produce. Sample the bounty of the Sussex countryside, from seasonal fruits and vegetables, ice cream, bakery, butchers and artisan cheeses, and enjoy a local beverage at the Hopp Inn micro pub.

  • Fresh from the Sea: Fishing heritage lives on in its independent fishmongers. You can purchase the freshest catch of the day, straight from the boats that sail the waters of Sussex Bay. Indulge in succulent seafood for a delightful home-cooked meal or a delicious world-famous Selsey Crab or Lobster sandwich with your picnic on the beach.

More Than Just Shops

Selsey's charm goes beyond its independent shops. Explore the town's picturesque harbour, soak up the sun on its award-winning beaches, or delve into its rich maritime history at RNLI Selsey.

 

Ditch the usual tourist traps and discover the hidden gem of Selsey this summer? Experience the warmth of independent shops, savour the taste of local produce, and create lasting memories on this unique stretch of the Sussex coast.

 

Find out more about Independents’ Day here and discover how you can support the heart of our local communities.