In an era where the British high street is often defined by vacant shops and ubiquitous chain stores, one small Welsh town offers a refreshing and thriving alternative. Narberth, nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire, is a gorgeous destination so packed with unique, independent shops that it possesses not a single chain store on its bustling high street.
A High Street Unlike Any Other
With a modest population of just 3,000 people, the sheer volume of activity in Narberth's town centre is immediately striking. Even on a Tuesday lunchtime, the streets are teeming with residents and visitors perusing the windows of an estimated 50 independent retailers. The town is a vibrant tapestry of local butchers, antique shops, clothing boutiques, bridal stores, and hair salons.
Journalist Steffan Rhys, who visited recently, described it as a "special little town" whose charms are well-known enough for it to thrive, yet it remains just off the beaten path to avoid being overwhelmed by tourism. The absence of empty lots is a stark contrast to the 13.8% national vacancy rate for high street premises across Britain.
Unique establishments like the "Quirky Garage," filled with oversized animal models, and "The Shop at No47," self-described as "quite possibly Pembrokeshire's most perfectly pleasant place to peruse," add to the town's distinctive character. A sense of community is palpable, evidenced by lamppost signs advertising a "hymns and Pimms" night at the local church.
Historical Charm and Culinary Excellence
Narberth's history is woven into its streets. The former town hall, a building from the 1830s crowned with a clock tower, now houses The Golden Sheaf, a chic boutique. Until very recently, its original clock was wound weekly by a town council member following meticulous instructions from over a century ago.
The town's culinary scene is remarkably diverse for its size. A standout is Hwb, an independent food and drinks hall housed in an old Victorian school. It features four food vendors offering everything from Indian street food to halloumi and pineapple tacos, alongside 18 draft beer and cider taps.
For fine dining, the options are exceptional. Annwn earned a spot among the Good Food Guide's 20 finest UK restaurants in 2022 after just 12 months of trading, with a 10-course tasting menu for £150. On the outskirts of town lies the opulent The Grove, where the Fernery restaurant offers a seven-course tasting menu for £145 and rooms start at around £250 per night.
A Community-Driven Success Story
This vibrant atmosphere is no accident. Locals describe Narberth as an "effervescent little place with a robust sense of community" where people "live for the lifestyle." Chris Lees-Price, founder of Hwb, stated, "The community here likes to protect local businesses by using them, and there's a real pride in the town."
Beth Alexander, who grew up in the town, recalls its transformation. "When I was growing up here in the 90s, there were a few basic shops... But the town had an arts scene bursting forth," she said, crediting the arts as a great regenerator for the thriving high street seen today.
Beyond the town limits, Narberth sits within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with world-class beaches at Tenby and Saundersfoot, family attractions like Folly Farm, and dramatic castles at Carew and Manorbier all a short drive away. It's a Welsh gem that proves a community-focused high street can not only survive but flourish.
