With our proximity to London and the behemoth that is online shopping, you might be curious as to where to go for some truly independent stores. Thankfully, our beautiful county is peppered in much-loved independent retailers and shopping experiences. Magnificent markets selling an abundance of lovingly local and fabulously fresh produce, quaint and eccentric shops brimming with hidden gems, boasting boutiques and thriving art galleries await. If you're unsure of where to start, get those baskets at the ready because your trusty Visit Herts team has your retail therapy covered...
Berkhamsted
Handily encompassing its main street through town, Berkhamsted is home to a raft of local favourites, whether you need some antique interior design pieces or seasonal plants and flowers from the likes of Woods of Berkhamsted. Finish your trip off by keeping it local and sip some of the county's own Mad Squirrel beer or dine Italian in Per Tutti, which handily also has a St Albans location!
Hatfield House Stable Yard
Sitting in its own little paradise of retail are the Hatfield House Stable Yard Shops. With the backdrop of the house, the stunning surroundings make for some equally special stores, with the likes of jewellery sold by Fiona Rae to outfitters for your four-legged friend, with some beauty treatments on hand to finish off.
St Albans
Peppered with a charming collection of independent shops and quaint boutiques, the historic city of St. Albans offers the perfect place to indulge in a spot of retail therapy. With winding streets laced in independent retailers and a market square packed with local market traders, design a sparkling new style and taste the freshest fare in a picture-perfect historic setting in this wonderful area. The cobbled lanes and beautiful precincts provide an idyllic background to a splendid range of retailers, so you can soak in the sensational views whilst on your shopping adventures!
Stevenage
Along the main old town high street in Stevenage lies the ideal place for indulging in independent shopping. The wonderful town caters for all tastes and styles when it comes to boutique and unique retail therapy, and is even home to Hertfordshire’s longest-serving butchers, Hurrens. So, get those tote bags at the ready and make your weekly shop or Saturday afternoon out a totally new experience.
Watford
You wouldn’t be wrong to assume that Watford is known for its abundance of big brand names and chain stores, however the impressive shopping centre is also brimming with independent shops and retailers. From trendy coffee shops and fabulous food spots to beautiful boutiques and delightful clothing shops, you’re certain to discover your new favourite store in Watford.
Hertford
A rich history and its charming streets are not the only selling points of Hertford, the wonderful area also boasts a wealth of fabulous independent shops. Whether you're looking to tantalise tastebuds with some fabulous fresh and lovingly local produce at the farmers market, uncover the hidden gems at an antiques store or add a little sparkle to your wardrobe at one of the many boutiques, Hertford is sure to offer a sensational shopping spot for you.
Hitchin
Hitchin boasts a rich diversity of independent retailers and businesses waiting to be discovered away from the internet. Not only home to an array of fabulous food outlets, quirky boutiques, and vintage clothes stores, the area also hosts a popular market showcasing the much-loved local businesses in the area, with over 150 stalls! With a general market, craft and farmers market, and an antiques and collectibles market, there really is something for every shopper to snap up here.
Hemel Hempstead
Brimming with independent, eccentric, and niche stores, Hemel Hempstead’s quaint streets will provide an idyllic backdrop to your shopping trip. Take your pick from the popular Marlowes shopping centre, or step inside the hidden gems peppered around the town to see what unique pieces you can uncover. Whether you're searching to add a sparkling addition to your home, to get hold of a new vintage piece, or to simply take in the sights with some window shopping, Hemel Hempstead is the perfect place to be.
