Forget shopping malls and high street department stores, the small market town of Great Dunmow in Essex has established itself as one of the region’s leading independent shopping destinations…
As more and more of us buck the trend of fast fashion and adding to the pockets of big-brand retailers, this Essex town has been working hard for years to promote shopping local.
Recently finishing in the top five of a small towns national competition, the High Street is a collective of independent businesses – think cute homeware stores, stylish boutiques, salons and cosy coffee shops. The businesses are run by local residents so first-class service is high on the agenda; here you’ll enjoy a warm welcome and personal service.
Perhaps one of the best things about stepping away from big brands names is discovering little treasures. Browsing the stores, you’re bound to fall in love with items from unknown designers and craftsman.
Nikki Anthony, owner at the Wardrobe and Vice Chair Great Dunmow Town Team says: “You’ll find 
different brands to what you’ll discover on the High Street; there’s an amazing haberdashery shop which is a joy to explore, plus a wine shop that will take you round the world. These our just a few of the shops on offer.
“We have a great community spirit among local businesses thanks to the Great Dunmow Town Team which was formed over four years ago. We work together to bring people into the town with our ‘Shop Local Campaign’, our Parking Scheme Initiative and different events that are held in the town.”
And she couldn’t be more right, December saw one of the most successful Christmas Light Switch On to date and included an ice rink, fairground rides and food stalls – big offerings for a little town!
This year there’s talks of introducing a Farmer’s Market by the summer which will give local producers a platform to sell their home grown products – just watch this space!
Keep up to date with what’s happening by visiting visitgreatdunmow.co.uk.
