Shopping in Ashbourne

Ashbourne, just to the south of the Peak District in Derbyshire (where there are lots of wonderful places to stay), is a popular jumping-off point for exploring the beautiful scenery of Dovedale. But don’t be too hasty to leave the town in your rear-view mirror – there are a wealth of attractions in Ashbourne itself. There’s a plethora of historic listed buildings, a choc-a-block calendar of fabulous events, and a raft of amenities to cater for every need or want. There are so many things to do in Ashbourne.

Tempting eateries beckon you to settle down for a while and sample some of the local produce, while local pubs promise a thirst-quenching tipple in welcoming surroundings. And the reason you’re here, Ashbourne shops are plentiful and eclectic. In this article, we shine the spotlight on some of the best shops in Ashbourne, to help you find the perfect purveyor of whatever you’re hoping to purchase.

The following list of shops in Ashbourne contains some of the top spots to hit for retail therapy, whether you’re looking for a new outfit for a night out or seeking a special gift for a special someone. It’s by no means an exhaustive list – just head for the town centre with your shopping bags to discover the array of retailers on offer. And when you’ve shopped until you’ve almost dropped, recoup your energy back at your pick of our gorgeous holiday cottages in Ashbourne.

Browse our cottages in Ashbourne

Shops in Ashbourne, Derbyshire – skip to:

Image copyright Handmade Design

Handmade Design

Ashbourne shops don’t get much more enticing than Handmade Design which is full to the rafters with gifts made by over 100 local and UK small businesses. Hand-poured candles, soaps, jewellery, art prints, cards, chocolate, homeware and more vie for your attention – we defy you to go in without making a purchase!

The independent Ashbourne business is owned by Laura, a creative herself who pours her heart and soul into curating a beautiful selection of hand-crafted items. Displayed with a flair for design, the shop is a browser’s paradise, and the feel-good vibes associated with shopping small are not to be underestimated.

Images copyright House of Beer

House of Beer

House of Beer does what it says on the tin. Inside, you’ll find an emporium devoted to the nation’s favourite tipple, with shelf upon shelf of world, craft and local traditional beers and ciders. For people who like to browse colourful cans of small-batch beer to find their perfect match, this shop is for you.

There are over 700 beers to choose from, and there’s a tap room too, so you can stay for a while and sample some of their wares before deciding on a carry-out. Regular games nights add to the social atmosphere.

Image copyright Equatorial

Equatorial

Step in the door of Equatorial and be immediately hit by the cacophony of colours shouting loudly from every shelf and hanger. Vibrant, funky, Fair-Trade textiles make up the shop’s tempting array of stock, which covers everything from clothing and accessories to fashion for pets.

Buying directly from their suppliers, paying a fair price for products, and minimising packaging where possible, their mantra is that their producers work with them, rather than for them.

Image copyright Dare to Be Different

Dare to Be Different

A miscellany of vintage clothing and accessories awaits at Dare to Be Different. Unique outfits and designer brands jostle for attention, waiting to be added to your wardrobe. Vintage patterns and styles shine out from the expertly curated collection in this little shop that beckons you to have a rummage and emerge with something totally ‘you’.

There’s a tempting selection of accessories too, including gorgeous leather bags which all have a story to tell. This is just one of the independent Ashbourne shops offering something enticingly different to the high street brands.

Image copyright Betty's Sewing Box

Betty’s Sewing Box

A paradise for crafters and textile artists, Betty’s Sewing Box is a treasure trove of gorgeous patterned fabrics, haberdashery, wool and vintage material, with a selection of hand-crafted items to persuade you to loosen your purse strings too.

They also offer a range of workshops, so if you feel like getting crafty during your stay, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.

Images copyright Courtney Gallery

Courtney Gallery

A tantalising collection of paintings, ceramics, sculptures and prints is on show at the Courtney Gallery, one of the largest in the local area. Housed in the former magistrate’s court, there is also a cafe above – the ideal spot in which to pause and mull over which piece of art you'd like to buy.

There are regular exhibitions, workshops, artist demonstrations and talks, so be sure to check the calendar of events if you’re an art aficionado.

Sinfoil and Slater

A family business, over 20 years old, Sinfoil and Slater specialise in elegant country outfits for men and women. Whether you’re looking for a stand-out dress for a special occasion or a comfortable pair of boots for everyday wear, you’re sure to find an item which suits you down to the ground.

A number of accessories and gifts can be found here too, with quality, functional items which are perfect for your holiday or home.

Images copyright The Olde Sweet Shoppe and Milkshake Bar

The Olde Sweet Shoppe and Milkshake Bar

The thrill of stepping inside a sweet shop as a child never leaves us, and The Olde Sweet Shoppe and Milkshake Bar encapsulates the nostalgia with its hundreds of jars of tempting sweets. Special occasions such as Easter and Christmas are well catered for, with an array of mouthwatering inventions including cheesecake-filled chocolate eggs and gifts for Father’s Day and Mother’s Day.

Their delectable milkshakes are a real indulgence, topped with delights such as your favourite chocolate, plump doughnuts and a sprinkling of sweets. For more tasty treats, try The Ashbourne Gingerbread Shop (part of Birds Bakery) or Loaf.

Poole & Sons

Find a host of antique shops in Ashbourne in the town’s antiques quarter. Poole & Sons is one such establishment; they are specialists in antique pictures which include oil paintings, watercolours, drawings, prints, caricatures and objets d’art.

Step over the threshold and delve into their collection, which sprawls across several rooms, making it an enticing prospect for treasure hunters. Find a beautiful and unique piece of original art that speaks to you.

Mylrea and Ivey

Another independent shop in Ashbourne is Mylrea and Ivey, founded to inspire ladies of all ages to shine in glamourous, beautiful and flattering outfits. Here, you’ll find advice, encouragement and just a little magic to match you with that perfect sparkly number, or a little something to make you feel fabulous on the beach.

Featuring floral, floaty, comfortable and elegant garments, the Italian boutique knows its customers and wants every individual to leave feeling ready to wow in their new attire. If you’re looking for clothes shops in Ashbourne, make sure you stop off here.

Other shops in Ashbourne

There are so many Ashbourne shops that we couldn’t list them all, with a mixture of high street favourites and boutique independents. A few others to add to your ‘must-browse’ list include Henmores clothing, Optimum gifts and jewellery, and Chic clothing.

Teddy fans will want to make an appointment at The Bear Patch, which sells specialist and vintage stuffed toys, including Steiff, Charlie Bears and a pre-loved collection of cuddlies.

Ashbourne antique shops are clustered in the antiques quarter, where you’ll find the aforementioned Poole & Sons, as well as Spurrier Smith, Ashbourne Antique Centre and Manion Antiques, among others.

And finally, to pick up local produce and gifts, you can’t miss the Thursday market in Shrovetide Walk. The bustling weekly market sees a wide variety of stallholders come together to sell their wares.

Map of Ashbourne shops

Find the above shops in Ashbourne, Derbyshire on our handy map below.

Stay in Ashbourne

Discover Ashbourne’s shops by becoming a local for a while with a stay in one of our Ashbourne holiday cottages. One day, you could find yourself indulging in a spot of retail therapy, the next you could be heading out to explore Dovedale. From couples’ retreats to houses for large gatherings, you’ll find your perfect accommodation amongst our collection.

Browse our cottages in Ashbourne