9: Built On Independent Traders

Axminster is a town that values its independents! The local economy has grown up around small local businesses that are embedded in the community and serve it through thick and thin, most notably during the pandemic.

It may not be large but Axminster has a unique assortment of outlets to eat, drink and shop. In the wider area there are also plenty of great places to stay. The town has an especially strong group of gift and craft shops that provide outlets for talented local makers, and charity shops that support community issues.

Over recent years, Axminster has been a town in transition as economics have become so much tougher for high streets in small towns. The town is, however, now fighting back as evidenced by the recent restoration of the former Trinity House department store as a series of small independent shops and a socially orientated café.