Exeter’s Independent Revolution-The Fore Street Edition
Exeter’s fore street is an emerging independent location full of quirky, ethical, unique shops and eateries. With Great British high street spending lower than it’s ever been and the online market growing at record pace, Exeter’s independents are pulling together to update the status quo.
Sanchos - sustainable clothing store.
This Exeter independent ticks all the boxes, unlike other shops you may find on the high street, they source clothing that is certified fair trade and is constructed from sustainable materials. The store was inspired by the damage of the fast fashion industry in developing countries and since 2014 has provided staple items for every wardrobe. As well as selling the beautiful sustainable pieces of clothing they’re spreading the word about the importance of independent stores and sustainable fashion. They’ve recently hosted events for #FashionRevolutionWeek which included a clothes swap, talks and new season item releases. These guys are killing it and if you haven’t already visited or been told about them then where have you been hiding?
The Flat - planet friendly indulgence done simply.
I was recommended this one by a friend at work who always knows the best places to visit. The Flat is a super funky planet-friendly vegetarian & vegan inspired restaurant. All their menu items are freshly prepared in store from pizza base to pasta with ethical sourced organic ingredients. It’s been a popular spot since it opened on fore street in early 2017 and I may not be vegetarian but this is always a place I revisit.
Taco Macho - best burritos in town.
I couldn’t write about Exeter’s Fore Street independents without mentioning our eccentric burrito man. For a long time now Taco Macho has been the provider of our office burrito Fridays and they never disappoint. The tiny little venue is the number 1 restaurant in Exeter on trip adviser and no one deserves it more. Its simple, tasty, easy food that fills you with all those warm Mexican vibes.
NGNG - the rabbit hole of funky design.
If there was ever a place to visit and instantly feel like the quirkiest person alive, this is it. The shop boasts a plethora of items that are not only beautiful but carry a message of sustainability, everything is designed to last for future generations whilst making minimal impact on the environment. The items sold include house plants, perfectly framed prints, local pots, trinkets and much more. Not only is the shop awesome so are the people, the guys working here are always up for a chat and give the best plant advice. Not to mention their funky workshops that teach you to make the coolest items, you must check them out! Oh did I mention? they do kick ass coffees too.
Book Cycle - from tree to book and back again.
Although this little gem isn’t directly on fore street, nor is it a for-profit business, its only a short stroll down to the house that moved and is a great charity. The idea is that you pay for up to 3 books per day and you choose the price. It is an entirely volunteer and donation ran shop that aims to improve literacy and the love of learning. With the donations raised they supply educational books to schools and orphanages around the world and create tree planting projects with primary school children in the UK.
Join the independent revolution
These are a few of my favourite independent shops on Exeter’s Fore Street at the moment, but there are many more amazing places to check out too. Its time to get off the internet and support your local high street, the need has never been higher. Through supporting your local independents you’re supporting the makers, local producers and suppliers too. Next time you want a bite to eat or are looking for a special gift head to Exeter’s Fore Street!
Let me know of any other awesome independent shops in Exeter I should visit, I plan to write about those in the city centre soon and it would be great to hear your recommendations.
