Books for Amnesty is worth a visit not just for its wide range of well-organized secondhand books, but also because its proceeds help support the Amnesty International campaign for globally recognized and honored human rights, including the release of "prisoners of conscience", fair trial for political prisoners and an end to torture, "disappearances" and political executions. It's possible to find some very unusual books here, if you're willing to spend a little time looking, such as Japanese Manga translated into French! The books are organized by subject, art, cookery, health, travel, history, biography, children's etc. There's a particularly large selection of modern fiction, which fills an entire room at the back of the shop.
Anyone looking for a secondhand leather jacket should make their way here first. RePsycho has racks of them, alongside suede, cord and denim ones, all exuding sixties and seventies groovy chic. Lots of them are imported from America and Europe, so you know you're getting one-offs and won't bump into anyone else wearing the same thing in the city. Rummage through the overflowing shelves and rails and you'll also find jeans, some amazingly psychedelic dresses, shirts and skirts, as well as accessories, old telephones and some jewelry, all kitsch, funky and lots of fun. In fact, the decor alone in this place makes it worth a visit, think Austin Powers and you are not far off!
There's a certain snob value attached to John Lewis and it's regarded as quite a high-class department store. We're not talking Harrods here, but it's true that everything they sell is of top quality and there's definitely a slightly quaint and old fashioned feel to the place, look lost for just a second (not hard as the place is vast) and there will be an assistant at your side. There are four floors selling virtually everything you can think of, from fashion, children's wear, sports and leisure equipment, home furnishings, garden furniture, computers, foods and washing machines. It's perfect for locating those hard-to-find items such as buttons, designer labels for those over 40 and unique gifts. On the second floor is a licensed restaurant you'll need to keep your strength up if you're shopping here as the range of stuff on offer can become slightly overwhelming.
Waterstones is the largest bookshop in Bath and stocks an extensive range of both general and specialist books over three floors. The children's section on the ground floor has toys to keep the little ones occupied while you browse. The first floor houses an excellent cafe where you can chill out with your newest pick. Beware, you could find yourself featuring as the lead character in a yet-to-be-written novel as local writers and novelists have been known to use this area for people-watching. The bookshop also holds book signings on a regular basis. These are largely informal affairs and there is often the opportunity to chat with the author for lengthy periods. Wheelchair access is limited to the ground floor as there is no lift available. For more details, call ahead on the toll free number +44 843 290 8139
An erstwhile dockland area, Cardiff Bay is buttressed by rivers Taff and Ely, and today sits as a vivacious centerpoint of entertainment and adventure. These erstwhile docklands, which have revived into what is considered as the country's most successful regeneration projects, were earlier the nucleus of coal trade, and today teem with the contemporary buoyancy which pervades contemporary Cardiff. Speckled across its spirited expanse are an array of establishments teeming with life and vigor. From the Cardiff Bay Wetlands Reserve which is a wonderland for birders, to the modest Norwegian Church which spans a long-standing history, the Cardiff Bay Barrage and the Wales Millenium Centre which boasts a stunning repertoire of theater, ballet and opera, many attractions are located here. A chosen venue for an array of international events and festivals, the bay is most famous for its myriad water-sports offerings. A testament to Cardiff's coastal tenor, this sprawling bay is an endearing amalgam of culture, cuisine and contemporary engineering.
One of the oldest markets of Bristol, Saint Nicholas Markets is one of the most frequented haunts of the city. It is a famous landmark of the city and contains in its buildings the Farmers Market, Food Market and the Nails Market. The buildings have beautiful architecture and have around 50 stalls selling interesting artifacts and food-items. You will be pleasantly surprised by its selection of gift-items, books and food which are priced to suit the pocket. It also sells a wide variety of local produce. A good place to learn about the city's ways, Saint Nicholas Markets should be on your list of must visit places.
One of the oldest surviving potteries in Wales, the clay banks of the Rumney River provide plenty of raw material. The Giles family, who have owned the pottery for three generations, produce a wide range of goods. Commissions are taken for commemorative tankards, plates and mugs, with designs inlaid in glaze and enamel, to the customers' specifications. The showroom is open daily and workshops are organized regularly. Phone first if you're planning a visit.
Bedsteads always has an excellent selection of beautifully restored, antique beds to choose from, with styles covering the whole spectrum, from the simplest, cast iron bedstead to a sumptuous French Lit Bateau. They also offer a wide range of handmade, cast iron beds, carefully crafted to reproduce original designs. Various sizes are available, from just 2ft to 7ft wide. If you choose one of their unconventionally sized, antique bed frames, the shop can even supply a custom-made mattress and base. Perfect for those who like to recline in grand and slightly fairy-tale-like style. Check website for more details.
Although it's a climb from George Street up Lansdown Road it is rewarding when you reach 34 Belvedere. Antique Textiles is an Aladdin's cave of materials and rich clothing, and they have recently branched out into antique lighting in the shape of exotic chandeliers and wall lights. The shop is literally filled with antique fabrics, curtains, linen and lace as well as a small selection of other household items. Prices are surprisingly moderate and the workmanship is incredible. Best buy must be the curtains. Where else can you find fully-lined velvet curtains that weigh more than a baby elephant at a price that won't break the bank?
If you are looking for that really special piece of jewelry, look no further than Nicholas Wylde in Northumberland Place. The studio accepts commissions and will design a unique piece to your specifications. If you cannot wait, then browse through the large selection of ready-made jewelry (which also includes many Nicholas Wylde exclusive designs) for truly irresistible pieces. Most items are made on the premises. Service is faultless and the staff are knowledgeable. Definitely the only place to shop if you are looking for a piece with a little je ne sais quoi.
The shop fronts are beautifully presented, one with an extremely old wooden pram setting off the display to great effect. The shop specializes in old fabrics, textiles, painted furniture, cushions and lined baskets made of wickerwork. As well as being a gold mine for DIY quilters with a good range of early 20th Century fabrics, the shop has a range of beautifully made quilts for sale.
This small jewelery store is independently-owned and maintains an exclusive feel. Stocking a wide range of precious jewelery with some very nice classic designs, everything comes ready gift-boxed. Here, you will also find the largest supply of quality gold chains in Newport, in every length and weight imaginable. Gold and diamond earrings and rings are also available.