The English Riviera is home to some incredible local talent with creative minds at work, producing unique handmade goods, inspired by the local landscapes. In the summer months, bustling arts and crafts and farmer’s markets pop up and sell local produce direct from the makers.
Cockington Court Craft Centre
Cockington Court Craft Centre is a hive of creativity. Based on the idyllic Cockington Country Park and nearby traditional picture postcard Cockington Village, it is worth a visit for the surroundings itself! If you’re looking for a memorable day out and to pick up a handmade, unique souvenir this is the place to go.
Here you will find highly skilled artists and artisans, all producing gorgeous objects, paintings and crafts that are unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. You can even watch the makers creating their goods! From glass blowers making richly coloured giftware to blacksmiths working with red-hot metal, along with leather goods, ceramics, jewellery, art installations, artisan soaps and indulgent chocolate. Watching the craftspeople work on site gives a unique insight into the work behind these goods and is a memory that will stay with you for a long time. And if you don’t see what you’re looking for, why not talk to an artist on site and commission your own work of art?
The Craft Centre is part of the historic Cockington Court, a 17th century manor house set in 460 acres of country park and is a great place to explore once you have finished your retail therapy. Relax in the gardens, enjoy the nearby woodlands and lakes or ride in a horse-drawn carriage back to the traditional Cockington Village.
Cockington is situated just one mile from Torquay seafront. Open all year round, entry is free and the Court is easily accessible on foot, by bus and by car.
Independent Shops Run by Local People
If you’re looking for something different, look no further than the independent shops in Babbacombe, St Marychurch and Brixham. Amble around the streets to find everything from handmade ceramics to fabrics and artwork. In these towns, you’ll find independently owned boutiques, family-run businesses and unique personalities to make your holiday memorable. You will also find delis stocking a choice of great local produce as well as specialist foods from around the world. Many of these shops are run by local people living just a few streets away from their shops. By treating yourself to a quality, unique item, you will also be helping the local community by supporting local shops run by local people.
The Hustle and Bustle of Local Markets
Visit one of the thriving markets to find daily essentials and the unusual too. From Easter to October, on certain days the Brixham Art and Craft Market takes over the harbour side in Brixham and becomes a-buzz with local crafts-people showcasing some of the best art and craft in the Westcountry. Usually consisting of around 20 stalls, each offers unique, handmade gifts to suit all tastes and budgets. Torquay Grand Flea Market is usually open on Thursdays and offers over 90 stalls selling everything from vintage jewellery to collectables. Why not pick up a souvenir to take back home?
Farm Shops with Local Produce
Enjoy some Devonshire produce at our local farm shops. Occombe Farm Shop offers food as locally sourced as the next field! Here you can be assured of quality, fresh, and sustainable produce. Churston Traditional Farm Shop in Brixham was created to sell local produce for the lowest possible food miles. At Churston, you will find locally sourced vegetables, seafood from Brixham’s Fish Market and award-winning ales from microbrewery Bays Brewery, based in Paignton.
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