A hug in a shop
BRITISH design BRITISH made is fast becoming a destination shop in Battle’s High Street, not only as it supports British designer manufacturers, but it is simply a lovely place to be. ‘Human beings are at the heart of what we do’, says founder Paula Williams.
BRITISH design BRITISH made is fast becoming a destination shop in Battle’s High Street, not only as it supports British designer manufacturers, but it is simply a lovely place to be. ‘Human beings are at the heart of what we do’, says founder Paula Williams.
Wandering around its eclectic range of 3000 or so cards, bespoke-looking clothing and accessories including Christys’ wool felt hats, faux fur by Helen Moore, cosy home textiles, evocative vintage china, limited edition prints, luxurious body care ranges, delicious preserves, whilst listening to carefully chosen British music, you cannot help but smile and feel the warmth of this wonderful shop.
‘The emphasis is on creations from smaller niche companies or talented individuals who produce unique things not usually found in larger retailers,’ explains Paula, ‘including many under £20, right up to say more expensive hand-dyed, felted jackets over £250. Plus I am blessed with a positive, cheerful and friendly team.’ With over 250 suppliers and plans to expand over the coming year, it is a shop to visit, experience and enjoy.
‘Whatever your views on Brexit, during these uncertain times it has never been more important to focus on British strengths’, says Paula. ‘1066 and everything that came before means we are a mix of nations already. Our own ethos means, if you live here, design here and manufacture here, you tick our boxes. It’s about cherishing ourselves and embracing our strengths, both individually and as a country. The circle of prosperity from initial stages of design, through to manufacture and sale, are retained in the British Isles. The impact on our environment is low too. What’s not to love?’
‘Cherishing’ flows into her choices for this season: cosy bed socks, jumpers and cardigans, scented candles, delicious chocolate and rhubarb vodka in the run up to Christmas. ‘It’s a time for sharing and togetherness, so experience-led gifts which involve the family are also proving popular. Last year our bestseller was a cheese making kit!’
With plans for October including ‘BROTHERS IN ART: Paul & John Nash’ for the Battle Festival, they also have a few things up their sleeve for 14÷15÷16 October, so very much worth popping the dates into your diary. Trip Advisor reviews include, ‘a real gem of a shop’, ‘always a friendly welcome’, ‘packed with things which you won’t find in the run of the mill gift shops’. What’s not to love indeed.
BRITISH design BRITISH made is an all-inclusive shop, wheelchair, pushchair and dog friendly, with a dedicated children’s activity area and customer loyalty scheme.
BRITISH design BRITISH made
64 High Street, Battle TN33 0AG
Tel: 01424 777711
hello@britishdesignbritishmade.com
www.britishdesignbritishmade.com
Twitter: @loveBritishmade
Facebook: British design British made
