Shopping

Have a habit of picking up a fridge magnet wherever you travel or want to find weird, wacky gifts to give friends a giggle back home? Whatever your preferences, the Great West Way delivers all sorts of shopping opportunities. 

We all know shopping in London is amazing. But as you journey west you’ll find just as much to fill that spare suitcase - from the practical to the perfectly crazy. There’s out-of-town shopping centres selling everything under the West Country sun, High Street shops where you can pick up everything you’ll need for your trip and independent boutiques selling sustainable fashion, local art and more. For those who prefer preloved finds - vintage stores, antique shops and markets are to be found up, down and around the Great West Way. 

For one-of-a-kind souvenirs, gift shops in museums, galleries and other attractions often come up with the goods. From a glass bauble at Bristol Blue Glass to stylish sarsen necklaces at Stonehenge, you’ll come away with something unique and special that reminds you of your trip. 

Shopping in Bath is a real treat, high street fashion gurus, book worms and art collectors alike will enjoy the buzzing city and its eclectic selection of unique finds. Don’t forget to stop off at the Roman Baths and pick up a souvenir to share with friends and family. Plus, you can admire fashion through the ages at the Fashion Museum Bath.

Also, if you find yourself chatting with a friendly local - ask them to direct you to their favourite shops. They’ll always know best when it comes to off-the-beaten-track finds (some shops may not exist online, especially in rural areas). Perhaps there’s a man selling award-winning strawberry jam at the organic food market, or a fashionable seamstress doing a pop-up shop with a local craft collective. It’s great fun uncovering such secrets, but you can also find some excellent suggestions below and in our Great West Way shopping guide.