Discover Hidden Gems at Winchester's Independents Market

Discover Hidden Gems at Winchester's Independents Market

Winchester will be showcasing its wonderful range of independent shops, businesses and eateries from across the city at a special Independents Market on Sunday 22 July from 10am until 4pm. The market will line the city’s cobbled High Street in a celebration of the city’s local independent business community.

Winchester has a unique shopping culture with 50% of its retail businesses being independently owned and managed. This helps to put Winchester on the map as a shopping and leisure destination for people throughout Hampshire. Together with its independent restaurants and the city’s rich heritage, it is also a foodie and tourist hotspot.

The Winchester BID (Business Improvement District) fully supports the city’s independents and aims to create a thriving, clean and safe environment for residents, visitors and all of the businesses which operate in the city.

Gary Whiter, a member of Winchester BID’s Independent Advisory Group and co-owner of The Cabinet Rooms, said: “At a time when some big brands are struggling on the high street and internet shopping is hugely popular, we’re proud that Winchester is thriving with a busy and bustling community.

“The city not only enjoys an enviable location and is steeped in history, but it is fortunate to boast a fantastic selection of locally-run businesses. The Winchester Independents Market is about demonstrating just that.

“Whether you’re browsing or buying from an independent business, you’re guaranteed a fun and friendly experience with people who daily demonstrate their expertise and passion for what they do. We hope that people of all ages will come along on 22 July to love their local and maybe discover a new favourite shop or cafe along the way.”

The Independents Market will take place on Winchester High Street and will showcase Winchester BID member independent businesses. It is part of a calendar of events which will be taking place in Winchester throughout July to mark Independents Month, including a children’s ‘Independent Street’ and an ‘Indie Trail’ for people of all ages.

Jonnie Talbot-Weiss of Eat Drink and Be on Winchester High Street said: "The key thing about the number of Independents in Winchester is it gives the city a different dynamism. We aren’t a formulaic high street like you might see up and down the country. It’s different and it has a vibrancy."

For more information, visit www.winchesterbid.co.uk or search #IndieWinch on social media.