Surrey Downs Magazine

Reigate

WHY NOT HEAD OUT TO REIGATE?

Once a high street of estate agents and charity shops, Reigate has flourished in the last 15 years to become a popular shopping destination for those living in East Surrey. This market town nestled at the foot of the North Downs offers an enjoyable shopping experience. Even though high-end chains now populate the town, from Laura Ashley interiors to Phase Eight, Fat Face and Jack Wills, locally owned independent businesses still hold their heads high amongst the competition.

These include such gems as Gedo and Noa Noa, which sell the latest fashion trends for women, to Camel and Yak, a delightful haven in which to brose for gifts or indeed a little something to brighten up your home. And children trawling the streets with Mum won’t be disappointed if they succeed in steering their parent towards the independently owned The Toy Shop.

Others outlets include bridal shops, florists, jewellers and galleries – plenty for every type of shopper. And there are plenty of cafes in which to rest one’s weary feet – again many owned by local people such as the Vintage Tea Rooms on Church Street and the recently opened Chalk Hills Bakery Shop on Bell Street, which offers a light bite to eat and the chance to take home loaves of artisan hand baked bread made at their bakery in nearby Nutfield.

Rumour on the high street also has it that the retailers are now considering joining forces to offer late night shopping once a week.