We pick our favourite coastal boutiques on the East Anglian coast
Written by Emma Kemsley
This summer we’ve discovered there’s so much more to a visit to the beach than fish & chips and ice cream as we hit the streets of our favourite coastal towns
If there’s one thing I love to do more than anything, it’s shop! Combine that with a trip to the coast and you have my ultimate day out. Let’s face it, the British summer can be temperamental so rather than brave the blustery wind on the surf, I stepped out armed with my credit card to seek out the most stylish independent fashion boutiques…
North Norfolk
The Old Applestore, Drove Orchards, Thornham PE36 6LS
Located in the pretty setting of Drove Orchards, Nelle DK, which opened its doors in 2012, specialises in Danish Scandinavian designers. You’ll find brands such Ilse Jacobsen, Becksondergaard (I can’t get enough of their scarves), Six Ames & Twist & Tango, all beautifully presented in a Danish inspired interior. There’s also a store located at Feathers Yard in Holt.
Market Place, Burnham Market, PE31 8HE
Diane von Furstenberg, Elizabeth and James, Rag & Bone, need I go on? This place is a haven for every woman that loves a designer staple. You’ll find the latest collections from designer labels ranging from clothes to must-have accessories. Isabel Marant is soon to be added to the line up! Anna stores are also located in Holt, Bury St Edmunds, Woodbridge and Saffron Walden.
Creake Abbey, North Creake, Fakenham, NR21 9LF
There’s no better place to explore the great outdoors than Norfolk, and it’s even better when you get to do it in style – Christopher Willaim Country does just that. The family-run store offers high quality and stylish outdoor clothing and living essentials for men, women and even dogs. The store has also recently taken over Beachcomber in Wells-next-the-Sea, and is now Christopher William Coastal.
34 Prince of Wales Road, Cromer NR27 9HS
There will be no ‘Pretty Woman’ snobbery moment here, Lily B is one of the friendliest boutiques around. Beautifully decorated you’ll find stylish clothing and accessories that won’t break the bank!
Suffolk
166 High Street, Aldeburgh, IP15 5AQ
Fleur has coastal charm and a warm welcome as soon as you step through the door. A fantastic collection of stylish and wearable labels has made Fleur a popular choice in Aldeburgh. Experienced staff enjoy helping their customers choose from brands such as Sandwich, Part Two, Selected Femme, Aigle and White Stuff. With a great range of clothing, footwear and accessories it’s the perfect spot for some retail therapy before grabbing lunch by the sea.
Market Place, Southwold IP18 6EG
Collen & Clare is the height of coastal chic and sophistication. The beautiful Southwold store on the Market Place is located in a quirky building, which adds to the boutique’s cool vibe. It’s quite easy to spend hours browsing the colourful displays, neat rails and beauty products for the perfect fashion find. Look out for brands such as Converse, Birkenstock and Adrianna Papell. Stores are also located in Aldeburgh and Burnham Market.
Check out our interview online with Southwold boutique Denny as it celebrates its 165th anniversary.
Woodbridge
Holly Blue, Ninnie Noo, Sweet Dreams and Laura Jane are just a few of the boutiques putting Woodbridge on the fashion map. A stroll along the Thoroughfare is any fashionistas dream. You’ll find boutique after boutique offering the latest trends all set in a wonderfully inspiring and Instagram worthy setting. Make sure you stop by Adams Apple which has been offering major European labels at affordable prices for over 40 years!
15 Ranelagh Road, Felixstowe
Here you’ll find handpicked and stylish fashions at affordable prices. The store closes at 3pm on week days, but don’t worry if you miss it, you can also shop online. They even offer free same day delivery for those living in Felixstowe.
30-32 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe IP11 7AN
This pretty store celebrates curvy women with gorgeous clothing available in sizes 16 plus. You’ll also find accessories, handbags and jewellery. Hamilton Road is a hub for retail therapy in Felixstowe with plenty of hidden gems. Russell Smith and Maddison are both worth a visit too!
ESSEX
13 Connaught Avenue, Frinton-on-Sea
Located on Frinton’s trendy Connaught Avenue, a short distance from the sea, Bella Boo caters to the town’s most stylish visitors. The interior is contemporary and chic, and offers a comfortable space in which to browse the latest fashions and accessories.
Leigh-on-Sea
Think of Leigh-on-Sea and for most the image of a charming coastal fishing town will come to mind. However, beyond the cockle sheds is a high street of fashion boutiques waiting to be discovered. Head to The Broadway where you’ll find the likes of Kiss Kiss, Ruby Room and Just Fox Boutique, which as you might expect offer a vibrant and blinging mix of fashion.
Remember: When you buy from an independent boutique you’re supporting a local business and there’s not much better than that!
