Warminster has welcomed a surge of new shops to the high street, giving the town centre a boost.
Several independent shops have opened recently, and more are due to open in the coming weeks.
The new openings include a mix of gift and homeware stores, country clothing and music retailers. Some of the businesses have grown out of local market stalls, while others are long-standing community ventures. Several also plan to offer creative or workshop spaces, providing opportunities for local artists and makers.
Three properties at 20–24 Market Place have been acquired by property company HPH, which aims to tackle long-term vacancy and support the regeneration of the town’s historic high street.
“The town centre is becoming more lively, amenities are improving and we are keen to play our part in its regeneration,” said Katie Holdoway, Executive Director of HPH.
Gift and homeware store Pixie & Pickle opened at 20 Market Place on the day of the Christmas market and lights switch-on, following the completion of the first phase of repair works.
Founded by childhood friends Chloë and Rach, Pixie & Pickle offers a curated collection of gifts, art, homeware and treasures from local artists and independent makers.
“We’ve created the sort of shop we would love to shop in ourselves,” said Chloë and Rach. “Our aim is to stock shelves full of things that will make you smile, spark inspiration or simply brighten your day. And just as importantly, we want Pixie & Pickle to shine a spotlight on the incredible makers in our community.”
In addition to the gift shop, Chloë’s ‘Pixie’s Nails & Beauty’ business will be moving to the second floor. From early next year, Pixie & Pickle will open its own creative workshop space, giving local artists and makers a place to teach, share their craft and bring hands-on activities to the community.
Country clothing shop The Country Whistle also opened on the high street on the day of the Christmas market.
Katie Turland, who owns the shop, said, “It went really well. We got to meet lots of the locals, and other high street shop owners popped by to say hello – everyone was so lovely.
“We’ve had a really positive response, with people saying that a good-quality clothing shop is desperately needed.”
In January, a gun shop, Armoury Advancements, will open at the back of the premises.
“As it’s usually a 40-minute journey to anywhere for nice country clothing and outdoor wear, we thought it would be a helpful shop for the local shooting community,” said Katie.
The Little Boutique and Reality Records have also recently established a permanent base in Warminster, having first got to know the town as stall holders at the independent market. The Little Boutique is a women’s fashion retailer stocking a range of affordable clothing. Reality Records operates within the same premises, selling a wide collection of new and preloved vinyl, CDs and music memorabilia.
John from The Little Boutique said, “I have done the Warminster market for a good couple of years, but in the winter you get washed out with the weather, so you lose many days of trading.
“We like Warminster, and this opportunity came up at the right time. It’s been very good – we’re supported by people who used to buy from us in the market, and we also get new customers.”
John rents out spare space to local crafters and is currently working on plans to use the upstairs space next year as well.
