Shopping Experiences along the Great West Way

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.

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.

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Bristol

Welcome to the city of bridges, balloons, boats, bikes, Brunel and Banksy. Regarded as the capital of the South West of England, lively yet laid-back Bristol is creative, cultural and vibrant with a rich maritime heritage. Whether you’re looking for a great day out for all the family, a romantic break or a little adventure, you’ll find it in Bristol.
Reading

Be amazed by modern Reading – from remarkable medieval heritage and beautiful Thames countryside to award-winning shopping centres, there’s a surprise around every corner.
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Calne

Looking to visit the amazing town of Calne?...If so, click here to get the latest Calne tourist information for your visit to Calne as you travel along the Great West Way
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Chippenham
Trowbridge

Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, Trowbridge is a vibrant town that seamlessly blends rich industrial heritage with contemporary charm. Once renowned for its thriving woollen cloth industry, the town's legacy is beautifully preserved in its architecture and cultural landmarks.
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Alongside the Kennet & Avon Canal, the largest town in West Berkshire, Newbury, has a bustling high street with many interesting shops, which include unique stores such as family-run department store Camp Hopson.
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Marlborough is situated in the picturesque rural north-east of Wiltshire.
Bath

The golden city of Bath has been welcoming visitors for over 2,000 years. Designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Bath is home to some of the most impressive architectural sights in the world such as the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Pulteney.