A surprise in store

Unveiling a treasure trove of groceries, produce, plants and more at Gweek Village Stores.

Nestled at the head of the beautiful Helford River, and lying within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is the picturesque village of Gweek. It has been a port since Roman times and once had its own customs house and a quayside tin smelting house in times gone by. Today, it is very much still a vibrant Cornish village, with several thriving businesses, including the bustling boatyard, Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Boatyard Café and Black Swan Inn.

It’s here that you will also find Gweek Village Stores. Once your average corner shop, it has recently been transformed into a bright, welcoming space that stocks an array of local food, drink and artisan produce. It’s gaining a reputation for its wide range of organic, vegan and ‘free-from’ goods, and stocks an ever-increasing range of quality, unique gifts and cards.

Outside in the spacious backyard, you can choose from a wide range of seasonal vegetables, herbs and fruit plants, all organically grown less than a mile from the shop and ready to plant in your own garden.

The owners have re-opened the traditional ice-cream hatch that was used during the70s and 80s, but with the modern addition of an ice-cream van mural, drawing the attention of passers-by. Here you can grab a freshly-baked Ann’s pasty, delicious local ice cream, a Penny’s Pie, an incredibly moreish flapjack from the Cornish Flapjack Shack, as well as a range of cakes and coffees.

With plenty of off-road parking and seating outside or in the ‘Little Event Tent’, the shop offers plenty for those staying in the village or passing through by car, bike or on foot. Children love to sit and play on the vintage tractor parked up at the entrance and man’s best friend is fully catered for with dog ice cream and treats available.

Less busy with visitors than other village destinations on the Lizard Peninsula, Gweek is something of a hidden gem. A top insider tip is to pay a visit on a sunny summer Wednesday evening, when visitors and locals alike picnic on fish and chips from Sid’s famous van, whilst the Gweek Silver Band plays on the village green.

Gweek Village Stores
Post Office Row, Gweek,
Helston TR12 6TU
@gweekvillagestores
www.gweekvillagestores.co.uk