Shopping: Visit Royston’s amazing array of independent shops and boutiques

Home to a delightful array of independent shops, Royston is a thriving market town with a fascinating history. Velvet’s Louise Cummings pays a visit

A bustling market town located on the border of Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire, Royston has it all – a rich heritage, gorgeous green open spaces and independent businesses galore!

Thought to be named after Lady Rohesia or Roisia (Rose) it was historically home to one of the most important Roman roads in the country, with Ermine Street running north from London to York and Lincoln. What lies beneath is also fascinating, with Royston Cave discovered in 1742. A manmade beehive-shaped cavern underneath Katherine’s Yard, it’s filled with intriguing wall carvings and was thought to be used by the Knights Templar.

Today, its well worth a visit for the enticing range of independent shops, from beautiful boutiques to artisan food stores, unique jewellers to fabulous florists, plus cafes and restaurants. Head to The Corn Exchange to find a hidden collective of indie retailers and gaze skywards as you walk along High Street, John Street and Angel Pavement to marvel at a kaleidoscope of 100 brightly coloured umbrellas, in place until September. Don’t forget to bring your tote bag!

Cream of Royston

Trading for an incredible 49 years, Cream of Royston is predominantly a special occasion store. Its extensive stock, located over two floors, is colour coordinated for ease of selection. There’s an impressive range to peruse, including outfits in sizes 6 to 28, shoes, bags, hatinators and lingerie. Brands stocked include Condici, Ispirato, Veni Infantino, Veromia, Dressed up, Irresistible and Couture Club. Less formalwear from Frank Lyman, Allison, Tia, Lewis Henry and Ann Balon is ideal for a day at the races, wedding guest attire and cruising fashion. Daywear labels include Marble, Pomodoro, Lebek, Robell and Orientique. It is so important to wear the correct lingerie for a flattering look and conveniently this can be tried with the outfit. Appointments are available.

Visit: 3 John St, Royston, SG8 9BE / creamfashions.com

Contact: 01763 244073 / info@creamfashions.com

Follow: @creamofroyston

The Honest Fig

Welcome to the home of truly scrumptious artisanal cheeses. Owner Linda O’Sullivan, who describes her offering as ‘cheese without borders’, sources from the UK as well as Europe to ensure she chooses the best varieties including a tangy Isle of Mull Cheddar, traditional Stilton and Baron Bigod (voted the UK’s Best Cheese two years running).

Linda launched The Honest Fig on Royston Market back in 2021 as a six week trial and quickly built a loyal following before opening a permanent shop in The Corn Exchange.

She specialise in amazing cheeses (with new interesting varieties arriving regularly), fine foods and delectable grazing boards as well as hosting cheese and wine events alongside Cambridge Wine Royston.

Visit: The Corn Exchange, Royston, United Kingdom, SG8 9JR

Contact: 07951 238 786 / linda@thehonestfig.co.uk

Follow: @ The-Honest-Fig/

Kisses Boutique

Discover a ‘style for all seasons’ at Kisses ladies clothing boutique, which has been trading in the High Street under the ownership of fashion-conscious Marilyn for more than 20 years. This quirky store offers a wide range of beautiful women's fashions and new season trends with must-have outfits, accessories and much more!

“Just like you, we keep our eyes on what the trend makers are wearing and work to offer the hottest styles for women,” enthuses Marilyn.

If you are looking for inspiration for summer holidays, weekends away or a night out with friends then pop in to this wonderful gem of a boutique!

Visit: 41 High St, Royston, SG8 9AW / kissesroyston.com

Contact: 01763 243359 / kisses.royston@gmail.com

Follow: @kissesroyston

Bloom

Whether you’re searching for a hand-tied bouquet for someone special, resplendent wedding flowers or a personal sympathy tribute, the team at Bloom create beautiful arrangements with loving care. A florist, plant and gift shop located on Market Hill, Bloom was launched by Ellie James in 2019. Specialising in fresh, seasonal flowers, Bloom offers a wide range of services including local and nationwide delivery of flowers, tribute flowers, and wedding and event floristry. There’s also an in-house flower school where seasonal classes take place, ranging from wreath-making to floral centrepieces.

Visit: 33 Market Hill, Royston, SG8 9JS/ bloomroyston.co.uk

Contact: 01763 290157 / hello@bloomroyston.co.uk

Follow: @bloomroyston

Occasions for Less

If you’re looking for elegant attire at incredibly reasonable prices, you have come to the perfect place! Occasions for Less was opened to showcase end of season stock from its sister shop Cream, all at greatly reduced prices. It is located in Roysia House opposite Cream in John Street, Royston. Daywear, outfits, hats, hatinators, shoes, bags and occasionwear for the mother of the bride and groom plus guests are all available alongside lovely lingerie. Outfits are priced from £35 to £250 and daywear is available ranging from £15 to £75. Stock is being added continually, whether you are looking for something floaty, tailored or casual. Many customers visit both shops as there is something for everyone, every occasion and budget.

Visit: Roysia House, John Street, Royston, SG8 9BE / occasionsforless.co.uk

Contact: 01763 247166 / info@occasionsforless.co.uk

Follow: @occassionsforless

HC Jewellers

Sisters Hanna and Carla opened their flagship jewellery store in Royston in 2012. The dynamic siblings bring a wealth of experience to their independent family-run business. They grew up in the surroundings of their parents’ thriving antique and precious metal business, learning the trade in jewellery and precious gemstones. “This led us down a path where we discovered our profound love for all things sparkly,” they enthuse.

The sisters pride themselves on offering a personal service with attention to detail, quality and affordable prices. Their alluring offering includes engagement rings, watches, earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets, pre-owned pieces and bespoke jewellery.

Visit: 8 High St, Royston, SG8 9AG / hcjewellers.co.uk

Contact: 01763 244705 / info@hcjewellers.co.uk

Follow: @hc_jewellers

La Bella Vita Boutique

From fragrant hand-poured candles to luxurious beauty products, gorgeous greetings cards to dazzling jewellery, La Bella Vita Boutique is an enticing emporium! Founder Ronnie Hagger, who opened the boutique doors in 2015, has 25 years of retail experience, having previously owned a jewellery shop. With a mantra of 'life's too short not to be glamorous', the boutique stocks a huge range of women's clothing. Signature brands include Katie Loxton, Chalk, Havaianas and Toasted Crumpet. Ronnie, who is a big supporter of local indies, stocking Royston-made Emilyjaynes Candles, is moving her other store, La Bella Chic, next door, offering wonderful gifts for men.

Visit: 10 Melbourn St, Royston, SG8 7BZ

Contact: 07971 088509

Follow: @roystonlabellavita