Fancy a trip to a real-life fairytale village?
Love historic villages, stone cottages, cosy pubs, quaint tea rooms, stunning views, great food, and quirky shops? If so, we heartily commend a visit to the stunning Northumbrian village of Corbridge. We've just returned from an idyllic morning strolling around the centre, and it was a delight at every turn.
Exploring Independent Shops
Re for the Home (website) was our first stop — an Aladdin's Cave tucked up an alley off Main Street. This independent shop, which also has a section in the iconic Liberty of London department store, is a riot of colour, texture, and inspiration.
Richard was tempted by tiny Talbot Jones-coloured spoons.
I loved the thick, striped French fabric.
The children were fascinated by cushion maps and a felt tiger rug.
Everyone is sure to find something that delights them.
Next door, a large antique shop yielded a replacement egg cup for Miss Mini-Apprentice and some Scout cufflinks that Richard hopes to claim for his birthday. (Please contact us if you know the shop’s name!)
Footsteps to Finale Shoes and Accessories
A short walk brought us to Finale Shoes and Accessories, where we met the lovely Faye in person. She runs the shop's Twitter account, and her engaging posts inspired this visit.
The shop is full of fantastic bargains, and Faye spoke passionately about Corbridge’s wealth of independent businesses. The high street is refreshingly independent — just one bank and one pharmacy — and all shops boast friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Sweet Treats at Skrumshus
Next stop: Skrumshus, the ultimate sweet shop. Colourful jars brimmed with every treat imaginable, and we left with fried eggs, dolly mixtures, chocolate chewing nuts, and spogs.
Remarkably, the shop also sends sweets to soldiers on the front line. According to The Journal, 3,300 bags had been sent, funded by both customer donations and the shop itself — a wonderful sense of community.
Other Independent Highlights
Grants Bakery & Patisserie (website) tempted us with a beautiful window display.
Forum Books (website) offers eclectic, original children’s selections, with a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff.
Delight & Wisdom (website) is a lovely art shop full of beautiful gifts for all ages.
Lunch at The Angel Inn
Though we hadn’t walked far, we were ready for lunch at The Angel Inn.
Children enjoyed chicken goujons with chips and peas.
I had pheasant terrine with black pudding and poached pear with lime.
Richard savoured seared scallops with chorizo — firm, fluffy scallops with crisp, flavoursome chorizo.
Shared French fries were perfectly crisp and seasoned.
Still More to See
We left plenty unexplored: designer clothes shops, independent jewellers, art shops, gift shops, quality butchers, delicatessens, cosy pubs, and quirky cafés. Corbridge is a haven for beautiful products, delicious food, and a genuine sense of community.
Only 20 miles west of Newcastle upon Tyne and with regular bus services, it’s easy to reach. For the energetic, Activ Cycles offers bike hire and a café for refreshment.
Have you been to Corbridge? What were your highlights? Where should we visit next? We’d love to hear your recommendations.
At Talbot Jones Risk Solutions, we love supporting small businesses — through promotion, patronage, and helping them get the right insurance cover at competitive prices. Check out our recent blogs highlighting exceptional local SMEs: Christmas shopping and why shop local.
