Cornwall LivingIssue #152
Discovering Cornwall’s Gems
We’ve taken a peek into Cornwall’s retail treasure chest and picked out a few shining examples to tempt you with.
Cornwall – a word that evokes images of rugged coastlines and sandy beaches along with strongly held traditions. However, it’s also becoming increasingly renowned for its flourishing retail scene, where local artisans and creative entrepreneurs offer unique, bespoke products that capture the essence of the region. From exquisite jewellery to bespoke apparel and pet accessories, the Cornish retail scene is as diverse and captivating as its landscapes. Join us as we explore some of the most compelling retail outlets Cornwall has to offer, each with their own story to tell and wares that beckon shoppers to indulge.
Lesa Welch
Inspired artwork and home décor.
Lesa Welch is not just an artist; she is a storyteller who weaves narratives through her vibrant artwork and lovingly crafted home décor. Every piece is a celebration of Cornwall’s heritage, making it impossible not to feel a connection to the region when viewing her creations. Lesa’s work has a distinctly tactile quality, with textures and shades that draw in the viewer, transforming any home they adorn. The art she offers is more than just decoration; it’s a cultural touchstone, a daily reminder
of Cornwall.
El Camino
Keep your travel memories alive.
For those bitten by the travel bug, El Camino offers an unusual way to keep those itinerant forged memories alive. Specialising in handcrafted bracelets, this Cornish company uses beautifully designed beads and ‘steps’ to represent different parts of the world, allowing you to wear your journey on your wrist. Each piece is meticulously crafted, providing both style and sentimental value. With El Camino, you’re not just buying jewellery; you’re collecting pieces of your life’s travels, each bead representing a chapter in your journey.
WOW Cornwall
A centre of local craftsmanship.
Located in Wadebridge’s vibrant independent scene, WOW Cornwall offers beautiful, unique and conscious homeware and furniture for every style and budget. The boutique is a curated treasure trove filled with functional designs, local artisan creations and thoughtful gifts, all inspired by Cornwall’s captivating landscape. Whether you visit their dedicated store or shop online, you’ll discover something unexpected and irresistible. WOW Cornwall ensures every customer finds a must-have piece, making it a top destination for homeware enthusiasts.
Cornish Art
The essence of Cornwall captured.
Situated in Porthleven, Cornish Art offers a curated selection of artworks that capture the beauty and spirit of Cornwall. From representative seascapes and landscapes to abstract pieces, the gallery places an emphasis on the talents of local artists. The items on display not only make for beautiful additions to any home but also serve as a reflection of the natural and cultural diversity of Cornwall. For anyone looking to bring a touch of Cornish inspired art into their living spaces, Cornish Art offers a variety of styles to suit any taste.
Jo&Co
Stylish items for you and your home.
Jo&Co is a treasure trove of fashion and homeware items, with collections from American Vintage, Bon Parfumeur Paris, Lollys Laundry, Hot Pottery, Addison Ross and many more. Situated at Hawksfield on the Atlantic Highway, near Wadebridge, they also have an extensive retail website from which to access pieces of furniture that blend modern aesthetics with functional design, fashionable clothing and niche accessories. Its user-friendly interface allows for easy browsing and purchasing, while detailed product descriptions and customer reviews help inform purchasing decisions.
Seasalt Cornwall
Where style meets inspiration.
Seasalt Cornwall is well-known for its sustainable and stylish clothing, inspired by the Cornish coastal landscape. Their new Home & Harvest collection, motivated by the richness and variety of the late-summer garden enhanced by autumnal hues, is a delightful range that extends the brand’s iconic style still further. Gardening workwear influences versatile pieces with twill textures and easy shapes. These are paired wtih effortless dresses and elevated tops, with the addition of a vibrant Fair Isle if there’s a hint of autumn in the air. With shops throughout Cornwall, Seasalt’s newest offerings are perfect for those who cherish both comfort and quality.
Jo Downs
Fluid beauty and gorgeous colours.
Jo Downs is internationally acclaimed for her unique fused glass designs, with galleries in Launceston, St Ives, Padstow, Fowey and Tintagel. Her new Roseland collection is a stunning tribute to Cornwall’s Roseland Peninsula, reflecting its vibrant colours and natural beauty. Dazzling Sea Pinks, the frothy whites of Sea Campion and the swathes of violet-blue Spring Squill and Sea Holly are all reflected in this new collection. From elegant bowls to intricate wall hangings and large one-off installations, each piece is a unique work of art.
Griggs
Where heritage meets modern fashion.
Situated next to the country route between Truro and St Austell, Griggs is where rural heritage meets modern fashion. Known for its range of quality outdoor wear and agricultural supplies, Griggs marries practicality with style. Their offerings include quality boots, jackets and accessories designed to withstand the Cornish weather whilst keeping you fashionable. And what’s more they’ve just opened a new store in Truro. Shopping at Griggs means supporting a local business that has been providing for the discerning local or occasional visitor for over 50 years.
Grey Lurcher
Unique, handcrafted objects d’art.
The Grey Lurcher, the bespoke homeware and lifestyle store in Falmouth, has just opened in a second location in Truro at 8 Pydar Mews. Known for their carefully curated mix of affordable, on-trend homewares, garden gifts and lifestyle products, the store’s new branch promises the same charm in a smaller space. As the exclusive Annie Sloan stockist for both Falmouth and Truro you’ll be able to find the renowned chalk paint, perfect for upcycling furniture and other creative projects, at either location. The Grey Lurcher sells litres of this popular paint, alongside hundreds of bars of luxurious soap, both of which are among its bestsellers.
www.facebook.com/thegreylurcher/
Silver Origins
Cornish jewellery with a modern twist.
Silver Origins offers a stunning array of jewellery that captures the beauty of Cornwall with a modern twist. Their pieces are inspired by the sea, landscapes and wildlife of the region, offering a fresh take on traditional themes. With designs ranging from delicate and minimalist to bold and statement-making, Silver Origins ensures there is something for every jewellery lover. Purchases here promise not just a beautiful accessory, but a piece imbued with the spirit of Cornwall itself.
Justin Duance
Bespoke jewellery crafted from nature.
Justin Duance is a master at turning nature’s bounty into bespoke jewellery masterpieces. Based in Cornwall, his workshop specialises in crafting unique pieces using recycled materials and locally sourced wood, often including seaside finds like pebbles and driftwood. Each item tells a story of craftsmanship that is connected to the environment, making each one as meaningful as it is beautiful. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Justin Duance’s creations resonate with a unique beauty.
Porthleven Jewellery Workshop
Exquisite custom pieces.
Situated in the coastal village of Porthleven, the Porthleven Jewellery Workshop is the place to visit for those seeking custom, finely crafted jewellery. The shop boasts a diverse collection of unique pieces. However, they also specialise in melting down customers’ old gold to create new pieces that retain sentimental value while reflecting their owners’ design preferences. From engagement rings to bespoke necklaces, each creation here is a work of art, imbued with the spirit of the Cornish coast.
www.porthlevenjewelleryworkshop.co.uk
Slickers Doghouse
Treats, toys and more…
Pets are family and Slickers Doghouse in Cornwall understands that wholeheartedly. Offering a curated selection of treats, toys, accessories and grooming products, this canine boutique caters to the needs of your four-legged family members. What sets Slickers Doghouse apart is their commitment to providing high-quality, safe and delightful products. From gourmet dog treats to eco-friendly toys, every item is selected to ensure the health and happiness of your pets. Shopping here doesn’t just spoil your pet; it ensures their well-being with products you can trust.
Cornwall Hospice Care
Providing for the community.
Cornwall Hospice Care’s shop outlets are more than just retail spaces; they are lifelines for the community. Each purchase contributes to crucial hospice services, offering compassionate care for patients and their families. The shops feature a diverse range of items, from pre-loved fashion and furniture to unique gifts, all at affordable prices. With multiple locations across Cornwall, these shops not only provide great finds but also give back to a worthy cause. Shopping here means supporting local hospice care while discovering hidden treasures.
www.cornwallhospicecare.co.uk/shop
Cornwall’s retail scene is as rich and diverse as its landscape. From the sentimental treasures of El Camino to the bespoke artistry of Justin Duance and Jo Downs, and the eco-conscious elegance of Grey Lurcher, each retailer offers something uniquely Cornish. Whether you are a local or a visitor, delving into these experiences is an invitation to take home a piece of Cornwall.