24/11/2023
Dolly Did It is a charming independent retailer, co-founded by Amy and her mother Annette in 2014. With a studio nestled in the heart of southeast London, the duo specialises in upcycled vintage furniture and unique accessories for the home. Their journey began with a serendipitous paint spillage many years ago, with Amy's childhood doll taking the blame, hence the name, 'Dolly Did It'.
The mother-daughter duo curates a selection of vintage homeware, with a penchant for rescuing forgotten treasures and breathing new life into pieces that catch their eye.
The team's passion for vintage furniture stems from their appreciation of its enduring craftsmanship and quality, a stark contrast to some of today's alternatives which are often mass produced from cheap materials.
Simply put, Amy and Annette believe in offering well-built, timeless pieces without the hefty price tag. This dedication to upcycling and renovation is not only better for the customer, but also kinder to the planet – making sure nothing goes to waste.
Beyond their own creations, the team now stock a curated selection of like-minded brands that align with their ethos. Amy and Annette can be found showcasing their wares at North Cross Road market and Herne Hill market on Saturdays and Sundays, respectively. You can also peruse their goods online, at the link below.
Website:
www.dollydidit.co.uk
02/08/2023
Trove 167 is an independent concept shop located in lively Bermondsey Street. Established in 2007, it has become a hidden gem in the area, offering a unique shopping experience. The shop features specially curated collections that aim to inspire and spark curiosity, allowing customers to express their individuality through their personal style and surroundings.
The shop is the result of a partnership between Michael McGrath and Alessandro Palhares. Michael, with a background in fashion and textile design, has an extensive career working for renowned fashion houses like Krizia Uomo, Dunhill, Gieves & Hawes and Burberry. Alessandro, originally from São Paulo, brings over 20 years’ experience in high-end retail operations, having worked for brands like Prada and Salvatore Ferragamo.
Trove 167 offers a wide range of lifestyle products carefully selected to cater to the unique tastes of their customers, including items for men, women and the home. The shop showcases a mix of eco-friendly products, international designer collections and artistic works from various artists and artisans. The emphasis is on providing high-quality products and excellent service, ensuring that every shopping visit is both distinctive and captivating.
Where:
167 Bermondsey Street, London, SE1 3UF
Website:
www.trove167.co.uk
04/04/2023
One particularly intriguing local establishment is London Glassblowing, located a short walk away from Trinity Village on trendy Bermondsey Street. Founded by Peter Layton in 1976, the studio is one of Europe's foremost independent glass art galleries. The live studio means that visitors can see these marvellous transformations taking place, and truly appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into the products that London Glassblowing commission and sell.
London Glassblowing also carries out a wide variety of bespoke private, corporate and public commissions. Each one is given careful consideration to provide unique and inspired solutions to a brief of your choosing. In close consultation, these may be freeblown, hotworked in solid glass, or kiln-formed and coldworked as required.
The adjoining gallery regularly hosts exclusive exhibitions from a variety of talented artists on display for a limited time, exploring a number of artistic themes and motifs. It's also worth mentioning that the gallery is absolutely free of charge to visit. Photos of previous exhibitions and their exquisite pieces can also be seen on their popular Instagram feed @londonglassblowing.
Beautiful decorative and functional products are on offer at the studio, such as vases, tabletop ornaments and even handcrafted perfume bottles.
Be sure to pop in and see the masters at work for yourself.
Where:
62-66 Bermondsey Street, London, SE1 3UD
Website:
www.londonglassblowing.co.uk
12/12/2022
Operating for over 30 years, the independently owned Riverside Bookshop is a charming treasure trove of literary goodness. On the Tooley Street side of Hay’s Galleria, a brief walk from London Bridge Underground Station, you will find this store jam-packed with over 10,000 titles. Regulars can find themselves making saving by accruing points through the use of their quirky "Little Red Cards" – once you have acquired six stamps, you will receive five pounds off your next purchase!
The blog on the Riverside Bookshop’s website is updated regularly with lists of their latest arrivals and bestsellers, so be sure to keep an eye out. Stocking fiction, non-fiction, children’s, travel, art and culinary books, there is something for all at the Riverside Bookshop. Aside from the bestsellers and cult classics, the shop also occasionally stocks thoughtfully curated toys for children, as well as bespoke handmade greeting cards.
The helpful and informative staff at the Riverside Bookshop can also order in any specific books you’re on the hunt for – free of charge. The combined 70 years of bookselling experience behind the counter is sure to be invaluable in assisting you in finding what you need, so make sure to pop into The Riverside Bookshop to get your next literary fix!
Where:
15 Hay's Galleria, Tooley Street, SE1 2QN
05/08/2022
Southwark Brewing Company was founded in 2014 by Peter Jackson and lifelong friend Andy Nichol. Peter had worked in the brewing industry since leaving university in 1981, spending his time in sales and marketing, but never brewing a single pint. Enter master brewer Sean Franklin, a friend of over 25 years, former owner of the award-winning Roosters Brewery in Harrogate, and pioneer of Hoppy Pale Ales.
Using a complete home brew kit in his garage, Peter learnt the art of brewing to complement his theoretical knowledge. Over eight years, the Southwark Brewing Company has seen a lot of change and development. They now have over 100 different modern beers, all brewed traditionally, with many more planned. The brewery now has six fermenting vessels, up from the three original ones, including a 20 Barrel FV, commissioned in February 2020 in advance of a big sales drive.
Looking for a drink after work or a moment of relaxation at the weekend? The Southwark Brewing Company has a Tap Room that offers a range of beers on draught and in bottles. If you don’t fancy an ale, they have other drinks available, such as cider, wine, soft drinks, and a limited range of spirits and mixers. Dogs and well-behaved children are welcome, as well as customers who bring their own food (Maltby Street Market is just around the corner).
Where:
46 Druid Street, London, SE1 2EZ
Website:
www.southwarkbrewing.co.uk
05/04/2022
When you buy from an independent store, you support an entrepreneur who had a dream and decided to take a risk. You support the underdog, who chose to act on their desire to offer something different to the local community. You are not just encouraging the sense of community spirit when you buy local or independent, but you are helping build it—supporting small businesses to blossom and local talent being employed. It is estimated that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business, an estimated 63p stays in the economy compared to the 40p that would remain in local circulation from more significant companies.
Shopping independently is also your opportunity to come across some new, undiscovered brands which are not necessarily available at your typical high street retailer. Independents also tend to be very reactive to the needs of their customers. Experiences are often much more tailored and thoughtful when choosing local and independent because the brands need to stand out and leave a good impression. Independents are often even better for the environment. Local businesses themselves, by nature, tend to make more local purchases, supporting local producers wherever they can. Local purchases mean less transportation and less CO2 emissions. Independent retailers often stock locally-made products, which isn't usually the case for big retailers.
In the spirit of gifting thoughtful, local, and independent, we have comprised a list of local independents worth a visit.
The London Flower Shop
One of your local florists is located right in the heart of Long Lane, Southwark and has been the home to the London Flower Shop for over 20 years. The florist has been family-owned for over 12 proud years. They pride themselves on establishing great relationships with the community, international customers, and many businesses, offering fresh flowers and indoor and outdoor plants for any occasion.
The London Flower Shop provides high-quality flowers and plants to local customers, hotels, pubs, weddings, and various corporate events. Their floristry skills can meet diverse customer needs, from small intimate first dates to large wedding installations. Pop along for all your bouquet needs, big or small.
Mon Bijoux
The second independent business on the list is Moni Joux. The jewellery shop was opened over 10 years ago by married couple and ex-financial service workers, Jason and Jamie. Following a one-year trip worldwide to find inspiration for their next venture, they were introduced to their vision while stumbling across silver in Mexico.
Jamie and Jason's vision is simple: bring the highest quality, modern and elegant, ethically-sourced handcrafted silver jewellery to London and beyond. They attribute their success to their customers and always give the personal touch that keeps customers coming back. Mon Bijoux's handmade jewellery is made from the highest-quality and most popular alloy in the jewellery sector: 925 Sterling silver. It is all nickel-free, hypoallergenic, and wearable for allergy sufferers.
Mon Bijoux takes pride in their business, and their ethics are the centre of their company ethos. The store uses recycled packaging, transports by foot, cycle or electric vehicle, and ensures no exploitation of artisans or employees. Mon Bijoux's jewellery can also be personalised with any inscription they hand engrave in-store in any font or customised handwriting.
29/10/2021
Emilia sells only the most exquisite authentic Italian food and wines with one central goal: to bring to Britain the same high quality, authentic Italian charcuterie, cheese, parmesan, and balsamic vinegar Italians have on their tables. Based in Borough Market, Emilia’s ‘Bianca & Mora’ stall offers genuine Italian regional food.
Since the beginning, Emilia has been proud to support small family businesses and producers from their home region, Emilia Romagna. Emilia Romagna is one of the most well-known Italian regions, with its capital city, Bologna. Located at the centre of the peninsula, a long stretch of Emilia Romagna’s eastern coast lies along the Adriatic Sea, making it an appealing summer destination. The food in Emilia Romagna is still proudly prepared in the way it has traditionally been made. It is from these traditional and family secrets, that the food offered at the Borough Market stall takes its inspiration.
The Emilia Romagna region is still considered one of the main food regions in the world for its unique produce, territory, growing methods and traditions. With a quick browse of the Bianca & Mora store products, you’ll instantly recognise some of the most famous Italian products, including Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Parma Ham, Balsamic Vinegar Modena and Piadina bread.
All products are sourced from a collection of small farms in Northern Italy. The star of the charcuterie is the hand-carved leg of the Mora Romagnolo pig, which spends its life feeding on acorns and chestnuts, lending the meat a subtle but distinctive flavour. All the products are organic, and several enjoy Italian DOP status, short for Denominazione di Origine Protetta, which translates as "Protected Designation of Origin". DOP products are locally-grown and packaged; they get their regulated certification by following strict guidelines from production to packaging. Whether you’re planning to indulge in some homemade pizza or treat yourself to the number one comfort food, cheesy pasta, you are sure to have an authentic Italian food experience.
Where:
Bianca & Mora Stall, Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
When:
(Mon-Sat)
Website:
www.emiliauk.london
15/07/2021
Our local business spotlight for this issue shines brightly on Bermondsey Fayre. The ethically conscious boutique was founded over 10 years ago by owner, Liz. Wearing clothes designed by her friends, she would often be asked by strangers where they could purchase the items she was sporting. After initially positioning the business as a pop-up shop, Bermondsey Fayre is now a permanent fixture in the community, supporting an array of local and independent artists.
When in the store, you will find a host of delicately crafted items: cashmere headbands, silk scarves and award-winning organic face serum. Products are made sustainably and are designed to help the environment. For example, Beeswax Wraps are offered as an alternative to cling film.
If that wasn’t enough, Bermondsey Fayre also hosts yoga classes. The experienced instructors – each with their own specialism – offer personal tuition to help guide students through their sessions. Yogis can also enjoy special retreats organised by Liz and the instructors, in beautiful locations, for the ‘nourishment of mind body and soul’.
Bermondsey Fayre has something for everyone, and you will not be disappointed when you pay a visit this summer.
Visit at:
212 Bermondsey Street, Bermondsey
London, SE1 3TQ
www.bermondseyfayre.com
Hours:
Monday-Friday
10am-6pm
Contact:
+44(0) 20 7403 2133 /
info@bermondseyfayre.com
27/04/2021
The long-awaited return of London’s hospitality sector has created a buzz of excitement in the capital. As lockdown restrictions eased on 12th April, restaurants and pubs opened their doors to customers for al fresco dining. Londoners can now eat and drink outside with up to six people, marking the beginning of a long summer spent socialising with friends and family.
Borough Market is world-renowned for its wide range of dining options, but as London’s oldest food market, customers can also feast on its rich culture and heritage. Below, we’ve hand-picked some of the best places for you to make the most of the new normal, all of which are right on your doorstep.
Padella
Padella offers a simple menu of eight pasta dishes including tagliatelle, gnocci and ravioli. They combine traditional Italian techniques and flavour combinations with quality British produce. All pasta is freshly made in the restaurant, in keeping with the classic, homely Italian experience.
Location: 6 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TQ.
Rabot 1745
A short walk from Trinity Village, Rabot 1745 is the perfect place to catch up with friends over coffee. This restaurant, bar, café and shop is dedicated to cacao beans. Dishes are inspired by St Lucian cuisine and blend traditional Caribbean flavours with cacao to create a unique tasting experience.
Location: 2-4 Bedale Street, Borough Market, London, SE1 9AL.
Cartwright Brothers Vintners Ltd
The expansive range of wines at Cartwright Brothers Vintners Ltd. includes a ‘chocolate wine’ that is sweet, tasty and distinctive. Wines are sourced from independent estates around the world but are supported by a growing list of English options available for customers to taste.
Location: Borough Market, Borough High Street, London, SE1 1TU.
Gourmet Goat
For food packed with flavour and ethically sourced, Gourmet Goat is the perfect option. When the founders discovered that goat dairy farms sent their billy kids straight to be slaughtered, thus wasting the meat, they were appalled. This is what drove them to create Gourmet Goat. Their menu also includes delicious vegetarian eastern Mediterranean dishes.
Location: 41 Rochester Walk, London, SE1 9AF.
Roebuck Pub
The Roebuck Pub is a firm favourite among Trinity Village dwellers. The spacious piazza between Great Dover Street and Trinity Street is the perfect location for al fresco dining with lots of seating and tables outside for customers to enjoy their meals. Both the food and service are highly commended by Trinity Village residents, so be sure to pay a visit.
Location: 50 Great Dover Street, London, SE1 4YG
The last year has been incredibly difficult for us all, especially independent business owners. As we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, now is the perfect time to show your support.
27/04/2021
The long-awaited return of London’s hospitality sector has created a buzz of excitement in the capital. As lockdown restrictions eased on 12th April, restaurants and pubs opened their doors to customers for al fresco dining. Londoners can now eat and drink outside with up to six people, marking the beginning of a long summer spent socialising with friends and family.
Borough Market is world-renowned for its wide range of dining options, but as London’s oldest food market, customers can also feast on its rich culture and heritage. Below, we’ve hand-picked some of the best places for you to make the most of the new normal, all of which are right on your doorstep.
Padella
Padella offers a simple menu of eight pasta dishes including tagliatelle, gnocci and ravioli. They combine traditional Italian techniques and flavour combinations with quality British produce. All pasta is freshly made in the restaurant, in keeping with the classic, homely Italian experience.
Location: 6 Southwark Street, London, SE1 1TQ.
Rabot 1745
A short walk from Trinity Village, Rabot 1745 is the perfect place to catch up with friends over coffee. This restaurant, bar, café and shop is dedicated to cacao beans. Dishes are inspired by St Lucian cuisine and blend traditional Caribbean flavours with cacao to create a unique tasting experience.
Location: 2-4 Bedale Street, Borough Market, London, SE1 9AL.
Cartwright Brothers Vintners Ltd
The expansive range of wines at Cartwright Brothers Vintners Ltd. includes a ‘chocolate wine’ that is sweet, tasty and distinctive. Wines are sourced from independent estates around the world but are supported by a growing list of English options available for customers to taste.
Location: Borough Market, Borough High Street, London, SE1 1TU.
Gourmet Goat
For food packed with flavour and ethically sourced, Gourmet Goat is the perfect option. When the founders discovered that goat dairy farms sent their billy kids straight to be slaughtered, thus wasting the meat, they were appalled. This is what drove them to create Gourmet Goat. Their menu also includes delicious vegetarian eastern Mediterranean dishes.
Location: 41 Rochester Walk, London, SE1 9AF.
Roebuck Pub
The Roebuck Pub is a firm favourite among Trinity Village dwellers. The spacious piazza between Great Dover Street and Trinity Street is the perfect location for al fresco dining with lots of seating and tables outside for customers to enjoy their meals. Both the food and service are highly commended by Trinity Village residents, so be sure to pay a visit.
Location: 50 Great Dover Street, London, SE1 4YG
The last year has been incredibly difficult for us all, especially independent business owners. As we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, now is the perfect time to show your support.
04/03/2021
As England continues to face Covid restrictions, the livelihood of our local independent retailers and eateries is at risk. With this in mind, we would like to showcase our neighbourhood’s small businesses, spotlighting the retailers and restaurants that offer takeaway and / or delivery services, to encourage you to shop local during this unprecedented period.
It’s no secret that the last year has been tough for independent business owners, and now more than ever they need your support.
Hej Coffee
Based at the top of South London’s trendiest street, Hej Coffee is open and serving takeaway drinks, snacks, and delicious, sweet treats. The perfect place to pop into before taking a stroll up to Tower Bridge, this coffee shop will provide the fuel needed for a brisk Spring walk.
Location: 1 Bermondsey Square, London SE1 3UN
Borough Market
London’s most iconic fresh produce destination, Borough Market is home to an abundance of bustling traders, who continue to provide the finest ingredients, delicacies, and delights during lockdown. With over 140 independent retailers to peruse, this is the perfect place to pick-up mood-boosting treats for you and your family.
Location: Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
Shrigley’s Moroccan Cuisine
Located just around the corner from Trinity Village, Shrigley’s Moroccan Cuisine is a local staple for authentic Middle Eastern dishes. Offering both delivery and takeaway options, you can order via Deliveroo or directly from the restaurant.
Location: 125 Borough High Street, London SE1 1NP
04/03/2021
Founded in 2017 by TV producer-come-grocer Christine Hall, and fellow Bermondsey local Simon Lyons, Giddy Grocer is a distinctive grocery store on Bermondsey Street with a traditional approach to its interior and customer service, yet a 21st-century outlook on sustainable and ethically sourced produce. With fresh fruit, veg, cheeses and other delicious essentials hand-picked from artisan British producers, the Giddy Grocer team always aims to champion newcomers they believe are worth supporting.
Hall, who spent much of her career producing award-winning documentaries such as Gordon Ramsey’s Kitchen Nightmares, has a rich family history of providing London locals with fresh produce; her grandparents owned a greengrocer in the New Forest in the 1950s – a place renowned for growing quality soft fruits and vegetables – where her father became resident baker.
Having traded in Bermondsey for over 12 years, Simon has a high profile in the local area – his B Street Deli is a neighbourhood favourite, and his passion for serving the local community with high quality, delicious food is well recognised.
Both Christine and Simon are long-term Bermondsey residents, and felt that there had long been a need for a great place to buy fresh groceries and provisions – so when an opportunity to own a shop on Bermondsey Street arose, Giddy Grocer was born.
Over the course of the pandemic, Giddy Grocer has remained open, serving the community with essential items. The shop offers click and collect and delivery services too, so you can sample the delicious delicacies without leaving the house.
80 Bermondsey Street, London SE1 3UD Tel: 020 3609 7140
22/10/2020
Lauded as the best Indian Restaurant & Takeaway in Southwark, Tamaris Indian is a quaint family-owned restaurant located in the heart of Trinity Village. Serving the best of traditional Indian cuisine, the eatery provides a fantastic selection of vegetarian, vegan and meat dishes. The Lamb Biriyani is a menu highlight, with Londoners known to travel across the city to sample the famed dish.
The eatery is a local hotspot for Trinity Village residents, with many making use the restaurant’s famously prompt and reliable delivery service.
Tamaris Indian is located at 6 Trinity Street, Southwark, London SE1 1DB and is available for dining-in or takeaway. To book, call 020 7378 9292.
