Strawberry Blue

We love this uber cool, adorably cute gift store in the heart of historic Bradford on Avon. Gorgeous gifts, homeware, books and accessories

If you’re into independent style, you’ll fall head over heels in love with these whimsical, delightful home and gift wares at Strawberry Blue. This independent shop (that’s what we like to hear at Muddy! #keepitlocal #intheknow) certainly takes its time picking the very best selection of gifts to tickle our fancy.

Set over three floors in the ancient Shambles, it’s a pretty unique shopping experience here – words such as charm and character spring to mind. You’ll find some truly unusual gifts here that you won’t find anywhere else, and the care put into searching for them is clear.

The ground floor is home to Sunflower Studio, stocking fabulous Frenchic furniture paint and selling unique upcycled painted furniture pieces.

A big Muddy tick goes to the feel of this shop – not only is it bright and colourful (owner Claire clearly has an eye for design), it is one of those rare gaffs where you just want to buy every single thing in there. The good news is that the range of products changes all the time so guess what? You can! Oh, and this clever lot also offer an interior design service, so you can sort the rest of your house out too…

Head downstairs into Sunflower Studio, selling a range of furniture saved from landfill and lovingly upcycled. They also sell Frenchic, the only eco-friendly furniture paint that can be used on children’s toys, outside furniture and all around the home. Sunflower Studio offer workshops (currently 1-1 or 1-2 if the 2 are in the same bubble) to showcase all Frenchic products, plus they have put together kits for beginners, from £20. Need a favourite piece of furniture painted? They will happily take on commissions for customers.

Sunflower Studio is also proud to stock work from other artisans, including an upholsterer who creates cushions from natural fabrics using roll-end fabrics, and a range of lamps and doorstops, from Wood Heaven, which are made from reclaimed wood such as oak beams.