Bridport, nestled on the Jurassic Coast is a thriving market town steeped in history. What few visitors, and even some locals, don’t realise is that a thriving community of independent retailers can be found grouped together in the historic industrial area of St. Michael’s, Bridport. This hidden gem, chockablock full of artisans, antiques, cafes and a plethora of creative businesses is less than five minutes walk from the heart of Bridport’s main thoroughfare, indeed it could be argued from anywhere in town. From furniture to fabrics, ribbons to records, the businesses in St.Michael’s have come together to promote this ‘small town within a town’. Owner of Clocktower Records, Roy Gregory has initiated a series of posters showing the location of St.Michaels and just how easy it is to get to from any of the main thoroughfares in Bridport, which will be showcasing in empty shop premises around town. This promotion, Roy and the other traders who have contributed to the costs of printing and painting the shop fronts, hope will encourage footfall and raise awareness of just how much St.Micheal’s has to offer.
The heritage industrial buildings, most notably the old Edwardian rope making factory which houses Clocktower Records, artists and makers studios, an antique shop and iconic retro fashion shop, are worth visiting as are the cafes at St.Michaels with locals favourite Rafters (now licensed) and the funky Red Brick Cafe where you can enjoy a tipple with your wholesome grub.
Appreciate the history and visual impact of these rare old industrial buildings just a stones throw from Waitrose Carpark, use them for pleasurable mooching and keep them alive and open by shopping there for unique one off pieces. Fancy a refurbished hifi or a carefully sourced bottle of craft wine? Visit St.Michaels Vintage Market for knowledgable wine purchases or audio equipment! Doing up your house and don’t want the high street chains? Visit St.Michaels to kit out your home with original vintage and antique furniture and artefacts. Getting into vinyl or filling gaps in your existing record collection? Visit St. Michaels Vintage Market for the best ever evolving selction of preloved and new vinyl at Clocktower Records. Above all else, visit St.Michaels to see everything it has to offer in this wonderful old industrial heritage area of Bridport. A cool vibe and a great destination shopping experience.
