Set in beautiful countryside at the heart of the Isle of Wight, Arreton Barns is home to a vast array of arts and crafts studios, showcasing some of the best in local artisans and craftspeople. Browse independent local shops and find interesting and unique gift ideas, or even have a bespoke piece commissioned to take home.
There is a real historic charm at Arreton Barns. Here you can visit the family-owned real ale pub, a 12th century church, historic carp pond and traditional sweet shop, all on site. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with the whole family.
Watch the skilled artisans at work as they create unique, yet affordable items, all of which can be bought directly from the makers in their individual studios. They create a wide range of handmade items from a variety of mediums including silver, leather, glass, wood and much more.
#2 The Corn Exchange
Offering a wide choice of home and interior accessories to suit any home. As well as interior decorations, The Corn Exchange is fast becoming known among locals and holidaymakers for its great range of designer handbags, accessories and jewellery.
#6 The Dairyman’s Daughter
A key feature of Arreton Barns, is The Dairyman’s Daughter enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Traditionally decorated with original memorabilia, the pub has a lovely paved courtyard and sheltered conservatory seating area, perfect for enjoying a cold drink in the summer months.
Much of the produce used in the kitchen is sourced locally, with the menu and daily specials board boasting a range of home-cooked pub favourites. There are extensive gluten-free options available, plus a range of choices for vegetarians and vegan diets. Real ales (many of which are local) line the bar, with a great selection of fine wines and spirits on offer too.
#12 Chad Powell Gallery & Shop
Focused on capturing the fabulous night skies and diverse Isle of Wight landscapes, Chad Powell Gallery & Shop contains an abundance of gorgeous images that show off the very best of the Island. With beautiful wall art and affordable gifts, if you’re looking for a unique souvenir, this is the place to go.
#13 Fortune Leathercraft
Specialising in making and selling handcrafted made-to-measure leather belts, everything is made traditionally on site. Pop into the Fortune Leathercraft workshop, where Anders, the skilled artisan, also carries out leather repairs and makes bespoke leather goods to order.
#20 Isle of Wight Studio Glass
As seen on Channel 5’s Isle of Wight: Jewel of the South. Take the opportunity to watch Master Artist, leading British designer-maker Timothy Harris and his team. The World Famous studio has for over 50 years been inspired by the Island’s breathtaking year-round scenery, flora, fauna and magical coastlines.
Browse the Isle of Wight Studio Glass shop for something special, from a simple gift to a lasting investment. Free for all to see, experiences available, commissions welcome. Not to be confused with other studios, Isle of Wight Studio Glass is located at the very top of the site above the pond.
#23 The Shipwreck Centre
The Shipwreck Centre was founded in 1978 by professional diver, Martin Woodward. In 2017 the Maritime Archaeology Trust, a charity with over 30 years experience in research, investigations and pioneering techniques for the study of marine cultural heritage, took over the management of the museum. Inside you will find deep sea treasures and legends of shipwrecks from local waters. New for 2024: protected wrecks exhibit.
To find out more about the artisans, including their individual contact details visit arretonbarns.co.uk
Originally produced for Wightlife Magazine
