The local retailers in East Devon are back and open for business and it’s a delight to see people safely rediscovering the joys of their local high street.
East Devon offers a wide range of independent businesses and as lockdown restrictions continue to be eased, there is no better time to rediscover the shops, sights and services available on your local high street.
When you choose to shop locally you receive a unique and personalised service and product, while doing your bit to support the area’s economy.
Many of us took up new hobbies during lockdown and the high streets in the district are the perfect place to find the supplies you need.
If you tried your hand at sewing, be sure to visit the Sidmouth Haberdashery on Mill Street. The shop is run by Julie, who has sewn for nearly thirty years. Julie and her team supported local residents by hand making a range of masks at the start of the pandemic.

The haberdashery stocks a range of beautiful fabrics as well as a wide selection of other essentials. The shop also runs workshops and classes from beginners to advanced with a range of wonderful teachers. Pop in store or visit their website to learn more.
Whilst in Sidmouth be sure to pay a visit to Sidmouth Antique Centre. The store is Sidmouth’s largest antique centre and has been trading on All Saints Road for over 12 years. The shop boasts 25 dealers selling a wide range of antiques and collectables - perfect to accessorise any lockdown renovations!
If DIY is your thing, Abbots DIY in Ottery St Mary are East Devon's leading independent DIY and household store. They stock a number of DIY essentials including Dulux Heritage and Farrow & Ball paint. They also offer tool hire for larger jobs including cement mixing, floor sanding and scarifying. If you can’t get to the store, enquire about their free home delivery service (minimum order value applies).
If you’re determined to get fit, head to the leisure centre in Ottery St Mary or another LED gym. The Ottery St Mary leisure centre team are delighted to have reopened to provide local people with access to a modern gym and a variety of activities including 5-a-side football, netball and badminton.

Enquire about membership or pay-as-you-go options.
Wherever you are headed, grab your mask and hand sanitiser and remember to maintain social distancing when rediscovering your local high street.