The Best UK City for Independent Shopping
As independent retailers struggle against the rising tide of larger competitors, some cities are still thriving.
Cambridge has more independent retailers per person than anywhere else in the UK, according to a report by South Western Railway. They have calculated that there are 35 independent retailers per 100,000 people, which is over 10 more than the second biggest, Brighton. It’s clear to see that residents of Cambridge really appreciate local businesses. There are a number of reasons why that is, but perhaps one of the biggest is that shopping local keeps money circulating within the local economy.
In no particular order, we have listed our Top Best Independent Shops in Cambridge, all of which you can also shop online at Online High Street.
Malloy’s Craft Butchery, The Railyard, Cambridge
One of our top mentions, of course, is Malloy’s Craft Butchery. Malloy’s opened in Cambridge at the end of 2019 and has continued to rise in popularity ever since. The owner, Mike Malloy, has over 16 years experience as a professional butcher, having joined the trade at aged 14, which explains the companies tagline, “Malloy’s knows meat”.
Unlike most traditional butchers, Malloy’s has taken a deeper dive into where their meat comes from to ensure that every piece of meat that comes from them is of exceptionally high quality. Mike Malloy spent a year learning about farming, different practices and feeding techniques, and speaking to dieticians about how to optimise the animals diet for maximum results.
You are able to order from Malloy’s Craft Butchery on Online High Street and get high-quality meat and dairy delivered to your door from this local butchers. Even if you are not local, Malloy’s can safely deliver their meat Nationwide.
Norfolk St Bakery, 7 Station Road, Cambridge
A must if you are visiting Cambridge is Norfolk St Bakery. The original bakery was opened in 2012 by Portuguese born Adilia when she moved to Cambridge. Her breads and bakes were an immediate success and she opened her second shop on Station Road in 2017.
If you are visiting the area, pop in for one of their famous Pastel de Nata’s (traditional Portuguese custard tarts) or perhaps try one of their sandwiches made with their very own breads. They also stock a range of Portuguese deli items.
If you are in a hurry, you are able to click & collect via Online High Street to ensure that your order is ready and waiting for you when you get there. Or stay in the comfort of your own home and get your items delivered to you next day.
Cambridge Bee, Mill Road, Cambridge
Enter into this little urban jungle situated on the iconic Mill Road in Cambridge. Cambridge Bee was founded at the end of 2020 in the midst of the pandemic, and has grown from strength to strength. Starting from just cuttings in a small space, Cambridge Bee now stock over 100 different houseplants, so there’s sure to be something to suit your tastes (and plant care skills!).
They also provide a rental service for events such as weddings, and can even come out to your workplace and decorate the space with the perfect plants for an office.
You can either get your plants safely and carefully delivered to your door (nationwide!), or click and collect on Online High Street and drop in to experience this mini urban jungle in all its glory.
Il Mercato by Signorelli’s, The Grafton Centre, Cambridge
Il Mercato by Signorelli’s is one of Cambridge’s little known gems. Situated within The Grafton Centre, they sell products coming directly from Italy, Greece, Spain and Portugal including drinks, sweet treats, meats, cheeses and much more. If you are looking for authentic Mediterranean produce local to Cambridge, look no further.
Browse their extensive range on Online High Street and get your items delivered from this independent shop the very next day.
And there you go, some of our top picks for independent shopping in the Cambridgeshire area. Enjoy!
