35 Brilliant Independent Shops in Skipton

independent shops in skipton

Whether you’re in Skipton for business or pleasure – if it’s shopping you’re after, you’re in luck. Independent shops are the backbone of Skipton as a destination – with specialists in just about anything you can think of. As a consequence, it’s one of the best places in North Yorkshire when it comes to shopping.

However, if you’re new to the area – it can often be difficult to know where to begin. But don’t fear, we’ve put together this handy guide on where to find some of the most wonderful independent shops in Skipton.

On Trend Boutique

shops in skipton

Located in a quite waterside location, On Trend Boutique is THE place to go for women’s fashion. Stocking an abundance of clothing, shoes and accessories which reflect the latest trends, this superb little shop has been God send to local fashion lovers since it opened just a couple of years ago.

If you’re a fashion follower and are keen to get your hands on the latest celeb inspired pieces, pop down to On Trend Boutique where you’ll bag yourself some stylish new outfits withoiut breaking the bank!

Alexander’s Jewellers

You’ll find this family-run jewellers on the balcony of the Craven Court shopping centre. Between them, the owners have an impressive 36 years in the industry so they’re certainly the people to go to if you have any questions or queries about fine jewellery.

They stock an ever-changing collection of beautifully restored antique jewellery and they also offer repairs, re-modelling and a bespoke jewellery making service.

The Home Company

independent shops in skipton

Located in the historic High Corn Mill, The Home Company was first established in 1881 as Pottery & Pine. Over the years, they have evolved and expanded to keep up with trends in home furnishings.

In 2015, they added a new showroom, increasing their floor space to a whopping 4,000 square feet.

At The Home Company, you’ll find a vast selection of beautiful chairs, tables, cabinets, desks, beds, wardrobes and much more.

Keelham Farm Shop

keelham farm shop

Keelham Farm Shop has been providing local residents with excellent quality, local produce since it opened its doors back in 2015.

The Keelham team come from three generations of farmers and producers so they are passionate about supporting those in the same industry.

You’ll find everything here from gloriously fresh fruit and vegetables and locally reared meats prepared by their in-house butchers, to wonderful Yorkshire cheeses and homemade cakes.

Captain Jellyfish

eshoes skipton

If you like shoes, you’ll love Captain Jellyfish on Skipton High Street. The family-run, independent shoe shop stocks a diverse collection of quirky shoes designed to reflect your unique personality.

With funky and fabulous brands such as Irregular Choice, Ruby Shoo, Dr Martens, Poetic Licence, Rocket Dog and Skechers all adorning their colourful shelves, it’s absolute heaven for the man, woman or child who can never have too many shoes.

They also sell loads of gorgeous handbags so you’re bound to find one to match your chosen pair of heels, boots or flats.

Out of the Ordinary

This is a real hidden treasure trove of unique products from Yorkshire makers and crafters. The town centre shop stocks all kinds of trinkets and treasures across two floors.

It’s well worth a visit if you’re looking for a souvenir or an unusual gift. You’ll find everything here from handmade soaps and bath bombs to handcrafted jewellery and delicious local jams and chutneys.

It’s definitely a shop you’ll want to visit again and again! They stock items from over 40 Yorkshire crafters so there’s always something new and interesting to discover.

The Geek Side

Located in Craven Court, The Geek Side is owned and run by a very talented graphic designer who also offers bespoke, award-winning Wedding stationery.

The shop itself covers two floors. The ground floor displays a magnificent collection of themed gifts, goodies and collectables.

The upper floor is dedicated to Harry Potter merchandise and they probably have the largest selection of Hogwarts-inspired products in the area. 

Cinderella’s

Family-run independent Bridal store, Cinderella’s, has been providing Skipton brides with their dream dress for many years.

They recently moved premises and are now located at High Corn Mill, from where owner Mandy, sells, alters and repairs an impressive selection of stunning gowns from various designers.

Whether you’re looking to purchase your dream dress or you’re just in need of some inspiration, customer service here is second to none. Both Mandy and her team of staff do their utmost to make future brides feel special but most importantly, they ensure they are comfortable and confident when choosing and trying on gowns.

Chocolates & Truffles

Chocolate & Truffles is tucked away on Mount Pleasant and sells a mouthwatering range of handmade chocolates and truffles.

All of their chocolates are made using the finest ingredients and the chocolate is picked to perfectly complement each of their delicious fillings.

As well as their yummy chocolates and truffles which are available in both bag and boxes, they also stock some wonderful single origin chocolate bars for those with an expert palate!

The staff here will happily put together a bespoke chocolate hamper if you want to take some of their treats home as a gift. We recommend getting one as  a gift for yourself…

The Art Shop

independent shops in skipton

A must-visit for those with creative hobbies, The Art Shop on Newmarket Street stocks pretty much everything you could possibly need to create your next masterpiece.

If you fancy yourself as the next Picasso, make sure you stop off here to browse their excellent ranges of quality brand paper, pencils, pastels, paints and other craft essentials. 

Teddy Boutique

Every child needs a special teddy and this wonderful little shop is absolutely bursting with quality bears, bunnies, dolls and other characters.

Soft toys and dolls have been firm favourites with small children (and us big kids) for an extraordinary length of time and most of us have fond memories of at least one from our childhood.

They also stock some beautiful clothes for babies and young children, so if you’re looking a special birthday or Christening gift for a little person, then you’ll be spoiled for choice at Teddy Boutique on Mill Bridge.

Sarsaparillas

independent shops in skipton

Sarsaparillas on Mill Bridge (head to the top of the High Street) has been serving sweets to the people of Skipton since 1920. Their shelves are filled with hundreds, if not thousands, of delicious sweets and confectionery products.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional favourites served straight from the jar or you have a penchant for a particular retro classic, Sarsaparillas will have something to satisfy your sweet tooth.

You’ll travel back in time and revisit your childhood when you step inside Skipton’s oldest and most traditional sweet shop.

Dogsbody & Friends

independent shops in skipton

Dogsbody & Friends is a family run business selling dog food and accessories.

Owned by husband and wife team, Andrew and Emma Stead, they sell all kinds of reasonably priced toys and treats for your four-legged friend.

They’ve been on Victoria Street since 2010 and have successfully built up a large customer base in the local area. Dogsbody & Friends also offer dog grooming so it’s a real one-stop dog shop!

Cool Cards and Gifts

If you’re looking for a greetings card or a token gift, then look no further! Cool Cards and Gifts on Coach Street sell some fabulous little trinkets, novelty gifts and unique greetings cards.

Many of their products come from local crafters and other independent businesses so if you make a purchase here, you’ll be supporting more than one hard-working business owner!

They stock a great range of greetings cards that you won’t find anywhere else in town. We particularly like the funny ones and could spend many an hour giggling our way through their stock.

Skipton Bed & Sofa Centre

Skipton Bed & Sofa Centre are an independent family-run business selling a wide range of furniture. They’ve been trading for an impressive 48 years so have a great reputation in the area.

Most of their product lines, including all their beds and divans, come from Yorkshire manufacturers as they are passionate about supporting the local economy.

Between them, the team running Skipton Bed & Sofa Centre have 100 years of experience in the industry. You needn’t go elsewhere if you’re looking for a new bed or sofa!

C & H Brown

Established in 1974, C & H Brown on Newmarket Street have been selling high-quality footwear and fashion accessories to the men and women of Skipton for over 40 years.

They have a huge selection of products to choose from across floors,  all suiting a variety of tastes. If you’ve got a wedding or other formal event coming up, this is the place to visit to find those complementary accessories for your outfit.

Ragged Dragon

independent shops in skipton

Situated in Skipton’s Victoria Square, Ragged Dragon is a treasure trove of all things magical.

The staff here are passionate about the products they sell and are always on hand to offer you a fascinating insight into Paganism and spiritual healing.

They stock Pagan goods, charms, herbs, incense, crystals, spells, ornaments,  beautiful handmade silver jewellery and various non-fiction books.

The relaxing atmosphere will hit you as soon as you walk through the doors. It’s a truly unique little shop in a lovely part of town.

Beks Electrical

Beks Electrical and Hardware is a family-run business with stores in Skipton and Harrogate. Their Skipton shop on the High Street has only been open a few years but the company has been successfully trading since 1979.

They sell everything from large appliances like cookers, washing machines and fridges to hardware items essential for your next DIY project.

They actually specialise in vacuum repairs so if you have a problem with yours, it’s worth popping in to ask their advice.

Drake and Macefield

A visit to Skipton wouldn’t be complete without purchasing some exceptional quality Yorkshire produce. Drake and Macefield have shops in Skipton, Settle and Crosshills and they are the longest established independent butchers in the area.

Many people in Skipton refuse to go elsewhere for their meat and pies! They’ve won countless awards over the years for their great, locally sourced meats but it’s their handmade pies that really make them stand out.

We recommend ending your Skipton shopping spree with one of their delicious traditional pork pies.

EZI VAPE

Previously located in Craven Court, EZI VAPE is now situated at the top of Skipton High Street. This family run business sells everything you could possibly need to make the switch from cigarette smoking to vaping.

If you’re new to vaping and not sure what you should be buying then this is the place to visit. The guys here are really clued up on all things vape related and will advise you on the most suitable system.

If you’ve been vaping for a while then it’s a great place to pop into for spare coils, batteries, atomisers and liquids.

The Growling Shrew

the growling shrew skipton

This family-run, independent speciality bottle shop will be your new favourite find if you like to indulge in a tipple or two.

Far from being your typical High Street off licence, this lovely little shop celebrates amazing independent brands from across the UK. They stock a diverse range of craft and traditional beers, ciders and artisan gins – many of which you probably haven’t been lucky enough to try before. The Growling Shrew also offer refillable ‘growlers’ so you can take away a beer or cider of your choice, fresh from the keg. Absolutely the ideal place to stock up on booze for a party or celebration.

Marshall & Marshall

independent shops in skipton

This beautifully decorated shop on Swadford Street opened in July 2012 and is one of Skipton’s most loved gift shops. It’s packed with unique gifts, novelty items, homeware and even some fabulous clothing which you’d be hard pushed to find elsewhere.

With its sparkling chandeliers, floor-length mirrors, trendy grey walls and shelves stacked high with a tremendous array of girly goods, you’re bound to make a return visit.

Farmhouse Fayre

The people of Skipton are lucky enough to have some excellent butchers in their town centre and Farmhouse Fayre is one of the best. They’ve been serving sausages, pies, pastries, dry-cured bacon and other fresh meats since 1975.

For 42 years, they have kept all of their recipes the same and local people still really love their fresh, locally sourced produce.

If you have a soft spot for a sausage, then Farmhouse Fayre have an impressive 18 varieties for you to choose from! Pop in during your visit to Skipton and pick up some perfectly plump pork bangers!

Craven Stationery

Craven Stationery on Coach Street has been trading since 1991. They stock a vast range of stationery products and offer a number of “while you wait” services.

Here, you’ll find everything from printer ink cartridges and printing paper to attractive journals and high quality writing instruments. They also offer copying, printing, laminating, faxing and binding – all of which they will do for you whilst you peruse their super popular stationery products.

They’re a family-run business with a huge number of loyal, local customers who rely on them for both their individual and business stationery requirements.

Emma’s Apothecary

Emma’s Apothecary in Craven Court is another one of Skipton’s hidden treasures. Their shelves are filled with an extensive selection of unique accessories, cards and gifts.

They have handmade soaps and bath bombs, handcrafted cards and some wonderfully quirky Vintage-inspired accessories.

Expect to spend a considerable amount of time browsing through trinkets, treasures and treats.

The shop itself smells absolutely divine inside too and this just adds to the gorgeous girly ambience! Definitely not one to miss if you’re in Skipton for the day.

Fleur Lingerie

Janet Denton, owner of Fleur Lingerie,  has over 14 years of experience as a personal fitter and advisor.

Ladies, if you’re looking for underwear or swimwear then you can expect top-notch service at Fleur Lingerie on Newmarket Street. She stocks excellent quality lingerie and swimwear and will help you find out your exact size before you buy.

The stuff here is great quality and made to last so definitely worth visiting for that trustworthy bra!

Janet is also a qualified Anita Mastectomy Wear Consultant and Maternity Wear Specialist so she can assist you, whatever your needs and requirements.

Discount Sports

Opened in 2019 by Ruth Eidsforth and her husband, Discount Sports is perfect for those who love a bargain!

Here, you’ll find all the top name and high-quality sports brands at much lower prices.

They stock everything from hoodies and t-shirts to trainers and football boots, all priced considerably lower than they would be if you order direct from the brand or from bigger retailers.

Gemology Holistic & Wellbeing

Gemology is another excellent shop located in Craven Court Shopping Centre. Having previously stocked her goods at Out of The ORDinary, owner Annette now sells a larger and more diverse selection of goods from her own shop.

Specialising in gems and crystals, here you will find all manner of beautiful stones alongside lots of other items related to holistic therapy and crystal healing.

Annette is very experienced in the field and is always happy to share her wealth of knowledge to help customers choose the right products.

Strange Games

shops in skipton

Strange Games is an excellent shop for those with a ‘geeky’ side. Previously located on Belmont Bridge, you’ll now find them on the upper floor of Craven Court.

They stock all manner of board games, card games, tabletop RPG games and gaming accessories. They also provide a fun, non-competitive environment for game playing. 

The Magpie

shops in skipton

The Magpie, in Albion Yard, is an independent shop stocking all kinds of antiques and home interior items. 

Their stock changes frequently so once you’ve been in once, you’ll no doubt want to visit again for another little treasure hunt. The Magpie also stock Annie Sloan furniture paint and they run regular workshops.

Riviera Boutique

shops in skipton

Riviera Boutique on Skipton’s Sheep Street are specialists in Italian clothing, handbags and accessories for women. 

The items stocked here would be difficult to find elsewhere on the High Street and it’s a great place to find your next statement piece. You’ll find colourful coats, cosy knitwear, chic scarves and much, much more!

Skip to School

shops in skipton

Skip to School on Water Street stock school-specific uniforms for the people of Skipton and the surrounding area. 

As well as embroidered sweaters, polos, blazers and other uniform essentials, you’ll also find plain pieces, should you require items for a child who doesn’t attend a local school.

In addition to school uniforms, Skip to School also sell uniforms for Brownies, Rainbows, Scouts, Cubs, Guides and Beavers. 

Sutcliffe’s of Skipton

shops in skipton

Another excellent butchers shop in Skipton is Sutcliffe’s. The locals are incredibly lucky to have such excellent places to purchase locally sourced meats from and this one on Otley Road is incredibly popular. 

Pop in before you leave the town and pick up some succulent steaks or some of their award-winning sausages and dry-cured bacon.

If you’re not sure what you want, the friendly, experienced butchers here are always happy to make recommendations and share recipe ideas. 

Fusion Jewellers

shops in skipton

Fusion Jewellers in Craven Court is the ideal place to find a special, sparkling gift for a loved one. 

They stock a wide range of jewellery items including contemporary silver pieces, preloved antique treasures and some truly magnificent diamond engagement and eternity rings. 

Their in-house goldsmith also offers repairs, remodelling and bespoke jewellery design. 

Myrtle and Webb

shops in skipton

Myrtle and Webb is located on Skipton’s pretty Victoria Square. This hidden gem sells quality ladieswear and fashion accessories, perfect for a special daytime event or a grand day out. 

They have clothes and shoes, scarves and pashminas, hats and fascinators, jewellery and more. 

 

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