5 of The Best Independent Shops in Abergavenny

Abergavenny is known and loved for its independent shops. Here are just a few that make us proud!

1. Nicholls – Home and Beauty Boutique

Nicholls has three branches, its largest and most elaborate being in Abergavenny. I always get drawn in by the amazing window displays and feel the need to pop in just to see what different things are in store. The stock in Nicholls changes constantly and this is because there is usually only a couple of each item for sale. This keeps it exciting knowing you’ve never seen it all!

Nicholls stock a huge variety of products with mostly independent brands which makes it so unique. One speciality of this store is the availability of the prestigious Charlie Bears! These are collectable, weighted, handmade bears which are very hard to get hold of and extremely desirable to collectors.

From candles, to jewellery, to crockery, there’s certainly something for everyone! As well as independent brands, they also stock a wide range of bigger brands, boasting names such as Yankee, Cath Kidston, Joules and Emma Bridgewater.

Split into two sections, you will find separate home and jewellery departments, as well as a delicious coffee shop at the back. So why not treat yourself to a new bag and a cream scone while you’re there!

2. Cuddle & Cwtch – Baby and Toddler Clothing

Cuddle & Cwtch is an amazing gem of Abergavenny! Here, you will find the cutest and most amazing baby clothes for miles. Even though I don’t have children, I always find myself popping in just to see what’s new, and I’m sure once you have been in you will do exactly the same!

Stockists of Frugi Organic Cotton Clothes, Cuddle & Cwtch offer the very best for your little ones. Their window displays are exciting and eye catching, with all of the bright colours and new additions to their ranges drawing you in. Aside from beautiful clothes, one thing you will always get from Cuddle & Cwtch is great customer service! The staff are wonderfully helpful and always friendly, ready to help you with your needs and recommend what they think is best if you can’t decide. They have been lifesavers to friends and relatives of mine with kids, as I’m sure they have been to countless other Abergavenny residents.

So why not treat the kids to something special, and maybe make a new friend while you’re there!

3. Cooks Galley – Baking and Cooking Supplies

Cooks Galley is one of my favourite shops in Abergavenny by far! As an avid baker and cook, this really is a treat. Cooks Galley stocks everything you will need to kit out your kitchen or make an elaborate cake. In the past, I have found myself in awe wandering around the cosy shop, filling my arms with all sorts of items from cake tins to spice racks and all sorts of cake decorating tools. It is also the place to go if you need something specialised that you thought you would never get in Abergavenny. If they don’t have what you need, never fear! They will always order in specific items if they can to make sure you get what you need.

Located on Neville Street near the post office, many people would walk straight past, though every time I’m in there the place seems packed out with returning customers who just can’t get enough! The staff are very friendly and helpful, always there to recommend items if you aren’t sure and to take an interest in what foodie project you might be tackling.

If you love food, you will never be disappointed in Cooks Galley!

4. FortySix – Contemporary Lifestyle Store

FortySix is very much a hidden treasure of Abergavenny. You may recognise it as the shop with big, orange door!

From the outside, it is not plainly obvious what kind of delights you can find inside, so when I went in for a nosy around I was amazed. FortySix is a store full of fun! You’ll find treats such as homeware and fashion in the most unique way. This isn’t any ordinary shop! You may have seen items online that seem really fun and unique but can’t find them on the high street, well here you can. These include novelty and uber contemporary kitchenware, stationary and gifts such as highlighters disguised as lipsticks, lamps disguised as cute animals and dummies with moustaches!

Along with the novelties, you will also find a revolution of homeware. Only the most eye catching and statement pieces will grace the walls of this ultra-modern store. You can find anything from cushions to garden decorations, alongside statement fashion items such as scarfs and necklaces in only the most beautiful designs and styles.

I challenge you to leave this store empty handed!

5. Carpanini’s – Artisan Emporium

As one of Abergavenny’s newer editions to our high street, Carpanini’s has everyone excited! Inside you will find a wide range of products, including wines, pastas, chocolates, gifts, deli foods and homeware.

As you walk in, you can tell this place is something special. From the pink and shiny bottles of champagne to the intricate glassware, you will be drawn in to explore further. Carpanini’s stocks many unique wines and liquors which you cannot find in your usual shops, so there is always something for that special occasion. They also sell beautiful and elaborate hampers for every occasion, including alcohol, chocolates, fine foods and gifts.

Alongside the delicious treats, you can also find the most beautiful gifts for the special people in your life. Catering for men and women, Carpanini’s sell unique pieces of jewellery, gentlemen’s gifts such as desk sets, chrome book ends and homeware such as statement clocks and statues.

This store really is something special, and I’m sure you will love it just as much as I do!

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