Exploring Dorset can be an adventure, and it’s not only the coast and countryside that make it exciting. The county has a number of unique emporiums, treasure troves of antiques, one-of-a-kind pieces and quirky finds.
Not to mention the endless amount of handmade items made by local artisans and creators.
Whether you’re a collector, looking for a special item or just browsing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Each emporium offers a unique experience and an endless amount of charm, from vintage furniture, retro fashion and cafes bursting with hot drinks and sweet treats.
Here’s the ultimate list of emporiums in Dorset. Enjoy!
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The Den
The Den is a delightful emporium in Bournemouth. This fascinating spot is a treasure trove of vintage and retro finds.
Explore an intriguing collection of items from over 100 traders. From antique furniture to quirky collectables, it’s a place full of unique charm.
The Den is more than just a shopping destination. You will also find The Kitchen, a lovely café offering delicious home-cooked meals.
Indulge in the delicious bacon sandwiches, light bites and lunches. As well as mouthwatering homemade cakes and sweet treats.
A great spot for a browse and a bite to eat.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open 7 days a week
- Free Parking
- Dogs are welcome
📍 Unit 9, 11 – 15 Francis Avenue, Bournemouth, BH11 8NX
Sherborne Antiques Market
Sherborne Antiques Market is a delightful treasure trove right in the heart of Sherborne, Dorset. This lively indoor emporium is filled with high-quality antiques.
Visitors can find everything from fine furniture and original art to vintage clothing and tribal artefacts. Each visit offers something new, thanks to a rotating selection from 42 dealers.
The market is both wheelchair and pushchair-friendly, welcoming visitors of all kinds, including those with four-legged friends.
With its famous window displays inviting customers in and a warm atmosphere, it’s a must-visit destination for any visiting Sherborne.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open every day
- Accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs
- Dogs are very welcome
📍 71 Cheap St, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3BA
The Customs House Emporium
The Customs House Emporium in West Bay is a treasure trove for those who love unique finds. Nestled along the stunning coast, the emporium offers vintage treasures, retro clothing, and handmade crafts across three floors.
Visitors can uncover hidden gems in its many nooks. The courtyard adds to the charm with cafes and places to eat, creating a relaxing atmosphere. Dogs are welcome, ensuring the whole family can enjoy the experience.
The emporium is open every day, inviting all to explore and maybe snag a bargain.
The amount of offers is endless, and you won’t want to leave empty-handed.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open 7 days a week
- Cafes and dining options available
- Dogs are welcome
📍 9d Station Rd, West Bay, Bridport DT6 4EN
Wardon Hill Trading Post
Explore a world of antiques and vintage finds at Wardon Hill Trading Post in Dorchester. With more than 60 traders under one roof, it’s a paradise for collectors and anyone looking for an interesting spot to visit.
From vintage trinkets to unique decor pieces, there’s something to spark the interest of every visitor.
The attached garden centre, although compact, is brimming with lush plants and flowers at reasonable prices. It’s a charming spot for plant lovers and those seeking garden decor.
After exploring the eclectic offerings, take a break at the cosy cafe. With comfy seating, it’s an ideal spot to unwind with friends while sipping a coffee or indulging in the selection of cakes and tasty lunches.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open every day
- Wheelchair accessible
- Free Parking
- Dogs are welcome
📍 Long Ash Ln, Dorchester DT2 9PW
The Emporium Christchurch
The Emporium Christchurch is a charming marketplace with over 130 stalls; it offers a delightful mix of retro, vintage, fashion items, and handmade gifts.
The lively atmosphere and unique finds make it a favourite spot for locals and passers-by.
Visitors can enjoy a break at the on-site café, known for its warm service and delicious treats. The café offers a perfect escape with tasty breakfasts, cakes, and excellent coffee.
This emporium is a true hidden gem with its range of rare items and fair prices. Every visit promises unexpected treasures from the everchanging stock, ensuring a memorable shopping experience.
📌 Good to Know:
- Free car park
- Lovely café
- Dogs welcome in the café (dogs should stay outside the building)
📍 Avon Works, Bridge St, Christchurch BH23 1DY
Dorchester Curiosity Centre
Located in the heart of Dorchester, the Dorchester Curiosity Centre is a treasure trove of antiques, vintage items, and unique collectables.
Situated in the historic Old Bus Depot, the centre offers a vast space filled with nearly 100 traders, each offering a diverse range of items for every taste.
During your visit you can enjoy a cosy café serving freshly made meals and delightful cakes, perfect for a relaxing day out.
The centre frequently appears on BBC’s Antiques Road Trip, attracting attention from across the country.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open 7 days a week
- Free Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Dogs on leads are welcome
📍 The Old Bus Depot, Grove Trading Estate, Dorchester DT1 1ST
The Alleyways Centre
The Alleyways Centre is a vibrant hub in Bridport, nestled in the Art & Vintage Quarter at St. Michaels Trading Estate.
With over 50 traders, the centre offers a dynamic mix of antiques and vintage goodies.
Every visit promises new surprises as the collection keeps evolving. Recent updates include better displays and an extended range of Belgian furniture, industrial pieces, and period items.
The Ammonite Gallery adds a splash of artistry with distinctive pictures, clothing, and jewellery.
Located near the heart of Bridport, The Alleyways is surrounded by creative artists and antique shops. Visitors can enjoy a stroll, indulge in a coffee at The Red Brick Café, or attend the Bridport Vintage Market on the last Sunday of each month.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open 7 days a week
- Cafes close by
📍 Unit 52, St. Michaels Trading Estate, Bridport DT6 3RD
The Old Grainstore Emporium
Located on Shaftesbury Lane, Blandford Forum, The Old Grainstore Emporium is a delightful spot for those who love vintage, retro, and antique treasures.
The store offers a unique shopping experience with carefully curated items, from upcycled and collectable pieces to artisan crafts. Visitors stepping inside are greeted with a warm atmosphere filled with nostalgia and charm.
Adding to its appeal, the emporium features a quirky tearoom. Here, guests can enjoy tea and coffee in vintage China, along with homemade cakes. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing break after exploring the treasures.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open from Tuesday to Saturday
- Features quirky Tearoom
📍 Shaftesbury Ln, Blandford Forum DT11 7EG
The Old Curiosity Shop
In the charming town of Corfe Castle, you’ll find The Old Curiosity Shop. Located at The Square, this newly-opened store is a treasure trove for antique lovers.
Housed in an 18th-century building, the shop boasts a colourful past and was once a reading room. Its unique two-floor showroom is packed with timeless pieces.
Visitors can explore a diverse collection, from antique furniture and ceramics to paintings and sculptures. The shop also offers a delightful selection of gifts and souvenirs, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.
Open 7 days a week, The Old Curiosity Shop is conveniently nestled among other quaint independent stores, just a stone’s throw from Corfe Castle.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open daily, 11 am – 5:30 pm
- Pub and bakery nearby
📍 The Square, Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ
Kingsettle Antiques
Kingsettle Antiques features 16 showrooms spread over two floors. This expansive centre offers pieces from over 30 dealers, making it a haven for antique lovers.
With fresh items added daily, visitors are sure to discover something new and exciting each time they visit.
The variety here is impressive, with furniture, retro finds, vintage curios, and jewellery among the treasures you might stumble upon.
The outdoor area boasts reclamation doors, gates, and sinks for those interested in architectural salvage.
This family-friendly destination is open seven days a week, including bank holidays. Whether you’re searching for a specific item or just browsing, Kingsettle guarantees a warm welcome and an enjoyable experience.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open 7 days a week, including Bank Holidays
- Run by professional dealers
📍 Station Rd, Shaftesbury SP7 9AH
Swanage Emporium
Swanage Emporium is an exciting place right in the centre of Swanage. It’s filled with mid-century furniture, charming vintage clothing, and unique collectables.
People love exploring its quirky displays, and the friendly staff are eager to chat about the fascinating stories behind many items.
Anyone can enjoy a visit to Swanage Emporium, whether they’re hunting for the perfect vintage find or just browsing the wide array of knick-knacks. Even dogs are welcome, adding to the friendly vibe!
If you’re in the area, you may want to check out these other Swanage shops or things to do.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open 7 days a week
- Dogs are welcome
📍 1 Kings Rd E, Swanage BH19 1ER
Dairy House Antiques
Dairy House Antiques in Shaftesbury brings excitement to vintage shopping.
The store offers a beautifully curated collection of antiques and vintage items. Each room is elegantly arranged to inspire creativity and discovery.
The shop also features a diverse selection of books, home decor, furniture, and garden pieces. This makes it an ideal spot for collectors and casual shoppers.
The shop is moments away from Semley and just across from Reeve the Baker. This makes it perfect for grabbing a delicious lunch during your visit.
📌 Good to Know:
- Open every day, including bank holidays
- Cafés, bakery nearby
📍 13 High St, Shaftesbury SP7 8JS
1 comment
Hi, love what your doing, I was brought up in Dorset(Sturminster Newton), but sadly we moved away when I was young, I loved it then and I still love it now. We holiday there most years, camping and now in our caravan, so all yourr great information is very helpful, thank you. I just wish i could move back to my beautiful home county, but unless I win the lottery, I can’t see it happening, thanks again and keep up the good work, Nicholas. 😁