With the children heading back to school, it’s a good time to enjoy a little time for yourself—and you don’t need to travel far.
St Marychurch has plenty to explore if you enjoy making things, finding something unusual or simply browsing independent shops. Add a cup of tea, a bookshop visit and a stroll around the precinct, and you have the makings of a relaxed morning or afternoon.
Discover our creative shops
The Falcones — 11 Fore Street
Browse yarn, knitting and crochet supplies alongside gifts and homeware. Their range includes British wool, offering inspiration whether you have a project in mind or are looking for your next one. Explore The Falcones.
Poppins Pottery — 52 Fore Street
Fancy trying something hands-on? Poppins offers pottery painting and clay experiences, with sessions to book ahead. Check the options before visiting if you would like to take part. Explore Poppins Pottery.
That Crafty Stitch — 5 Tudor Buildings, Fore Street
Yarn, craft kits, patterns and tools make this another stop for knitting and crochet enthusiasts. Keep an eye on their website for workshop announcements. Explore That Crafty Stitch.
Torbay Scrapstore — 6 Fore Street
Creative reuse is at the heart of Torbay Scrapstore, with materials to inspire making, a workshop programme and a coffee shop. It’s somewhere to discover what an unexpected scrap could become. Explore Torbay Scrapstore.
Witch Bobbins — 9 Foxlands Walk
Discover handmade crochet and opportunities to learn. Crochet lessons are available to book, so contact the shop about a suitable session if you fancy getting started. Explore Witch Bobbins.
September dates for your diary
Here are a few advertised sessions to get you started:
- Wednesday 9 September, 6.30–8.30pm — Autumn ceramic wreath at Poppins Pottery. £30, including a return visit to paint, glazing and firing.
- Thursday 10 September, 2–3.30pm — Felt flower pots at Torbay Scrapstore. £8.50, including tea, coffee and biscuits.
- Friday 18 September, 6.30–8.30pm — Mosaic workshop at Torbay Scrapstore. £28.
- Wednesday 23 September, 7–9pm — Needle-felted pouch with Sea View Studios at Torbay Scrapstore. £26, suitable for beginners, with materials included.
Please check availability and book directly with the organiser before making plans. These are selected dates, not the full programme.
See Torbay Scrapstore’s September workshops or contact Poppins Pottery for its sessions.
Vintage finds and creative interiors
Creativity takes a different form at Barkin & Hatt, 56 Fore Street, with restored and reimagined furniture, home décor and furniture paint for projects of your own. Explore Barkin & Hatt.
St Marychurch’s antique and vintage shops offer another reason to linger. You might find an unusual piece for your home—or inspiration for something you already own.
Make time for a book and a cuppa
There’s no need to rush straight home. Browse the shelves at Fables, take a wander around the precinct and stop at one of our independent cafés for tea, coffee or a bite to eat.
You can also enquire at the Precinct Centre about its current groups and activities if you’re looking for something to enjoy regularly.
Something new arriving this week
The South Devon Pottery Museum & Café, at 51B St Margaret’s Road, is due to open on Friday 11 September—another reason for pottery lovers to keep St Marychurch on their list.
We’ll take a closer look during the week. In the meantime, visit the museum’s website for opening information.
A little more exploring?
If you have time, our St Marychurch Heritage Trail offers another way to explore the area. It is still being developed and trialled, so think of it as an optional addition to your visit.
Come for a little creative inspiration, stay for a cuppa—and enjoy what’s on your doorstep.
Run a local creative business or have a workshop coming up? Let Friends of St Marychurch know so we can help share it.
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