Our favourite 7 independent shops in and around south west Wimbledon - 2023
Erika Urvina, serving Venezuelan food in Colliers Wood, South Wimbledon since 2016
Colliers Wood, South Wimbledon has been our home for almost 10 years, it has been a wonderful and tranquil place to live and run Liqui-Liqui, our small Venezuelan food restaurant. The people are friendly, it is close to London, we have the river Wandle just next to us and you can still find some great independently owned shops. In fact, Colliers Wood and its surrounding are filled with thriving small businesses selling a vast array of beautiful and interesting things.
For us, it is difficult to determine if there are fewer independent shops in Merton as a whole, but it certainly feels like it. There is no accurate information on the subject as it can change over time and can be influenced by various factors such as economic conditions, competition from larger chain stores, and shifts in consumer behaviour. However, we feel that the decline of independent shops in our area is being felt and can be attributed to a variety of factors, including increased competition from larger chain stores, higher rent and property prices, and a shift in consumer behaviour towards online shopping.
Although, there are some efforts underway to support independent shops and revive local economies. We believe that the initiatives to help to raise awareness of the importance of supporting independent shops can encourage consumers to make a conscious effort to shop locally. These small businesses provide a unique shopping experience and add to the character of the neighbourhood.
So this is why we have created a short guide to our favourite independent shops in and around Colliers Wood and South Wimbledon:
Here you have them:
wimbledon books, A book lovers haveN
If you're a book lover, this is the place for you. After a walk on Wimbledon common, and before the pub or coffee shop nearby, this is a nice independent bookshop to stop off at and browse the latest titles. It is well laid out and their staff are always of great help.
Wimbledon Books, 40 High Street Wimbledon, London SW19 5AU
Creature company - an indie pet shop and grooming parlour
It is lovely to go into a pet shop where the owner knows what they are talking about and is kind to your dog. They have extensive knowledge on dog nutrition, plus they stock high quality products for rabbits and hamsters.
The Creature Company, 54 The Broadway, London SW19 1RQ
MERTON ABBEY MILLS: A historic site with museum and theater
Merton Abbey Mills is a former textile factory located in the nearby neighborhood of Merton. Today, it's a popular tourist destination that offers a range of shops, cafes, and cultural attractions. The site features a number of historic buildings, a large open-air market, and a working watermill. There are also several museums, art galleries, and theatres, as well as a large children's play area.
Merton Abbey Mills, Watermill Wy, London SW19 2RD
Tooting Market: FOOD STALLS THAT MAKE OUR HEART SING
This bustling market is a hub of activity, with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothing, jewellery, and homewares. Tooting Market is a great place to find unique and unusual items from independent sellers, and is a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
21-23 Tooting High St, London SW17 0SN
Lark - a Tooting treasure trove of gifts
We feel as if we are in a bygone era of humanity when we enter Lark. A stylish, sophisticated and warm shop filled with gifts and cards that support local independent makers. We love their “Made in Tooting” selection.
Lark Tooting, 112 Mitcham Rd, London SW17 9NG
The Ballet Boutique - for the ballerinas in your life
This small niche shop socialising in Ballet and dance wear is one of the prettiest things adorning South Wimbledon. But they are not just a pretty face, the staff is very experienced and know their stuff, particularly when it comes down to can fitting pointe shoes.
The Ballet Boutique Wimbledon, 146 Merton Rd, London SW19 1EH
Wimbledon Brewery - Craft beer made in Wimbledon
Locally crafted beer with an excellent quality. You can book an insightful tour of the brewery and get fully immersed into the full process of beer making covering everything from costs to logistics. The also host wonderful events!
Wimbledon Brewery, Unit 8, College Fields Business Centre, 19 Prince Georges Rd, London SW19 2PT
South Wimbledon and particularly Colliers Wood and its surroundings are neighbourhoods rich in independent shops, each offering something special and unique. Whether you're looking for fresh produce, wine, toys, arts and culture, or books, you're sure to find what you're looking for in this vibrant and bustling community. So next time you're in the area, be sure to check out these independent shops and support local business.
And if after all that shopping you have worked up an appetite, do come and enjoy some delicious Venezuelan food at our restaurant. We have run and independently owned Liqui-Liqui since 2016. Due to the increase in demand we expanded in 2017 and in 2022 we decided to redo our outside area, now fully equipped with an awning to give you some shade and lots of outdoor seating area.
We are at 4-6 Merton High St, London SW19 1DN Our closest tube station is Colliers Wood, but you can also walk from Wimbledon station or hop on a bus.
If you are coming by car there is parking available as we have a retail park opposite where they have time limited parking.