While I do miss the shops in Bristol, Cornwall has its own gems if you know where to look…

It’s a struggle being deprived from the big chain stores here, but I guess being isolated from many of those can be seen as a good thing. It encourages you to support local businesses, and explore new towns and places you’ve never been.

Below I’m just covering the major towns in South Cornwall (I rarely ever go to North Cornwall, so I don’t feel qualified to comment on the shops). If you’ve got some fave spots in North Cornwall towns, or even South Cornwall ones to add to this list, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!

Truro

For chain shops, independent boutiques & great charity shops
My pre-teens were spent mooching around Truro, flitting between New Look and Lush, to quirky retro shops and cute boutiques. At the moment I’m loving Preloved Boutique and Magpie & Fox in particular.

It’s also worth noting that the charity shops in Truro are usually pretty well stocked and can be a great place to pick up treasure!

Falmouth

For chain shops, independent boutiques & surf shops
You won’t be stuck for cool outdoorsy surf shops in Falmouth, and keep an eye out for our own home-grown brands like Finisterre too. Also home to some gorgeous vintage and quirky boutique shops, I love wandering down the high street peeking in the window displays of shops like Wild Pony.

St. Ives

For craft shops & art galleries
Obviously St. Ives is synonymous with anything artsy; it’s a creative’s dream! Whether you’re looking for a unique art piece to hang in your home, or you want to create your own, a shopping trip to St. Ives won’t leave you empty handed. You’ll also find all the independent jewellery and pottery shops; it’s basically a Country Living magazine dream!

Penzance

For bohemian shops, art galleries & craft shops
Penzance gets a bad rap for being run down, but if you’re looking in the right places you can find a gem or two, especially if you’re a lover of all things hippie/boho. If you’re in the market for some unique gifts and quirky furniture pieces, definitely check out Mounts Bay Trading Co.

Newquay

For (some) chain shops & surf shops
I don’t head up to Newquay that often, but when I do it’ll be in Winter to avoid the crowds. There are obviously plenty of surf shops to take your interest (I’m loving Roo’s Beach at the moment), but I also recommend making a trip there for a meal – there are so many great restaurants and cafes to choose from (both chain and independent).

 

Got more to add to the list? Comment below!

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