Celebrating Independents’ Week in Bury St Edmunds

This Independents’ Weekend, we’re celebrating the amazing independent businesses that make Bury St Edmunds such a vibrant and unique place to shop, eat, and explore. From family-run favourites to exciting newcomers, our town is full of local gems,  and there’s no better time to celebrate them than now.

Just a short walk from the Buttermarket or the Abbey Gardens, you’ll find Bury’s thriving independent scene spread across streets like St John’s Street, Whiting Street, and beyond. These businesses are more than just shops and cafés; they’re stories of local pride and community.

Aubyn Davies was founded in 1906 by Aubyn Carew Davies in St John’s Street, Bury St Edmunds, and relocated two years later, two doors down, to its present location, a former Boots store. The business has remained independent and is now run by Richard Poole, his great-grandson. This specialist menswear and schoolwear store is known for its excellent customer service and strong sense of tradition. Whether you’re after a sharp new look or classic wardrobe staples, this St John’s Street institution is always ready with quality tailoring and a warm welcome.

Micks Cycles Celebrating over 55 years of service, Mick Hailestone’s store, Micks Cycles, is a local favourite for bicycles, accessories, and expert servicing. What started as a small moped repair shop on Victoria Yard has grown into one of Suffolk’s most established cycle stores, now proudly run by the third generation of the same family. Stop in to explore their vast range, and while you’re there, look out for the ancient flint bricks near the front of the shop, thought to be from the 12th-century Abbey!

After 17 years in telecoms, Lesley, the owner of Buy the Light, was ready for a change. Looking to do something completely different, she opened her first shop in 1998 on Risbygate Street, focusing on Danish candles and handmade Polish and German glassware. It quickly made its mark, becoming one of the first UK stores to stock Yankee Candles. That small space gave Lesley the chance to learn the ropes of retail before moving into the Cornhill Walk Shopping Centre, where the shop grew into something much bigger. The range expanded to include jewellery, scarves, home décor, baby gifts and more. Today, candles are just a small part of the collection. When the shopping centre closed in 2016, Buy the Light relocated to Whiting Street, where it remains strong. Many of the original customers still pop in, alongside plenty of new faces. The shop has won several national awards, including The Greats Gift Retailer Awards in 2011 and 2020, was a runner-up in Muddy Stilettos’ Best Lifestyle Store 2023, and was named one of the UK’s top 10 Christmas windows by the British Independent Retailers’ Association in 2022.

For beer lovers, Beautiful Beers on St John’s Street is the go-to indie. Stocking over 400 different beers from around the world, with a special focus on Belgium, the Netherlands and East Anglian microbreweries, it’s a treasure trove of craft and continental brews. Owner René’s extensive hospitality experience across Europe means there’s always something new and interesting on the shelves or an excellent recommendation when you need one.

Pocket Watch & Petticoats, Founded in 2015, began in owner Sophia’s bedroom and has grown into a stylish shop filled with retro-inspired clothing, accessories, and, more recently, Sophia’s clothing line. From tea dresses to handbags, this is where Bury’s independent fashion spirit shines.

Offering premium men’s fashion for over 40 years, Gerald Boughton is all about quality craftsmanship. Stocking fine British and European labels such as Magee, Viyella and Digel, their collection spans everything from smart tailoring to laid-back weekend wear. With a full made-to-measure service available, this family-run store is the place for style that stands the test of time.

Located right in the heart of town, Hair, His and Hers is a trusted name in haircare. Known for its friendly, relaxed atmosphere and expert team of stylists and colourists, they offer everything from everyday cuts to special occasion styling. Whether you’re popping in for a quick refresh or booking a bespoke colour appointment, you’ll be in safe, professional hands.

Croasdales Pharmacy has been serving the town since before the NHS even existed. Still proudly independent and family-run, it’s now led by Nicholas Cooper, who took over from his father, Douglas Cooper, over 30 years ago.

Set in a beautiful Grade II-listed building on The Traverse, Croasdales blends heritage with modern healthcare. While renovation work is currently underway to improve access with a new lift and consultation rooms, the charm of the shop remains.

Alongside prescriptions and health services, a brilliant leather and luggage department is located in the basement, stocking high-quality bags, wallets, purses, travel goods, and professional foot care products upstairs. Whether it’s vaccinations, a blood pressure check, or grabbing some luggage before your next holiday, Croasdales continues to offer thoughtful, personal care at the heart of the town.

Independents’ Weekend is the perfect excuse to get out and explore the fantastic businesses that make Bury St Edmunds so unique. So, whether you’re hunting for a handmade gift, looking for a new look, or just fancy a chat and a coffee somewhere new, this is the Weekend to support locals and love every moment of it.