One of the most charming market towns in the UK, Crickhowell, located in Wales, stands out for its exceptional independent high street. Recognized as a vibrant center for small businesses, Crickhowell has been honored with the prestigious UK’s Best High Street award. The town defies the national trend with its bustling and popular shops, boasting a High Street free of vacant units, hosting a variety of family-run establishments that have been serving customers for generations.
For those looking for a relaxing drink, The Bear, a historic pub with a history spanning over six centuries, is a top recommendation. The pub features a charming cobbled forecourt with an ancient archway leading to an interior courtyard. In 2010, The Good Pub Guide honored The Bear as the Inn of the Year. Another iconic establishment, Webbs, has been an integral part of Crickhowell since 1936, starting as a paraffin delivery service and evolving into a well-established hardware and ironmongers store that has grown into a department store over the years. Locals fondly refer to Webbs as “the grande dame of Crickhowell’s shopping scene.”
Crickhowell boasts a diverse range of exceptional retailers, including Black Mountains Smokery, Minster Auctions, the acclaimed Bacchus Off Licence, and Antur Brew, a microbrewery, tap room, and bottle shop located on the Elvicta Estate just outside Crickhowell. In a time where chain stores, vape shops, and betting outlets are on the rise, towns like Crickhowell, where independent businesses thrive and are deeply valued by the community, are becoming increasingly rare.
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Visit Crickhowell highlights the town’s unique appeal, stating, “Crickhowell High Street stands out as one of the last remaining shopping streets where local businesses offer local products and produce. It evokes a bygone era when high streets reflected the distinct character of their towns. Here, visitors are greeted by friendly and knowledgeable shop owners who take pride in their offerings.”
The Telegraph recently ranked Crickhowell among the top ten high streets in the UK, praising its array of independent shops and the town’s resistance to chain retailers. The town’s historical richness is also a draw, with Crickhowell Castle, originally built as a motte-and-bailey structure in the 12th century and later reconstructed in stone in 1272 by Sir Grimbald Pauncefote, showcasing its heritage.
Residents of Crickhowell express their admiration for the town, with one local noting, “It’s no surprise to see Crickhowell on the list, given its recognition as the Best High Street of the Year in 2018.”
Despite its small size, Crickhowell remains a strong community with only one chain shop in the town as of 2022, as locals continue to support local businesses like butchers and bakers. The town’s vibrant atmosphere during late-night shopping events has been likened to a lively street party, reflecting the community’s spirit.
Promoted as an ideal gateway to the southern Black Mountains and surrounding areas, Crickhowell’s tourism board showcases the town as a perfect base for exploration.
