There is lots of excitement across the town centre with all four shopping quarters welcoming back their customers. The majority of independent shops are open and ready for business, operating in accordance with the government guidance making it safe for visitors to return.

Tiverton’s Riverside Quarter which incorporates Angel Hill, Bridge Street and Westexe. Discover a range of independent shops in the area from health and wellbeing, specialist wine, fabric and hobby shops, a bakery and eateries. Westexe North has a one-way pedestrian system in place. Take a stroll down over the bridge and enjoy the waterfront along the River Exe.

Tiverton’s Gateway Quarter covers Fore Street and Phoenix Lane in the heart of the town centre, offering traditional town centre businesses. Fore Street hosts Tiverton’s department store and a variety of chain stores including clothing and charity shops as well as pharmacies and banks. This is complemented by a suite of independent outlets featuring a jewellers, sweetshop, butcher and baker. Cafés and eateries dotted throughout create a real buzz in this part of the town. There is a one-way system in this area next to Boots where pedestrians are asked to keep left.

Tiverton’s Independent Quarter (Gold Street and Lowman Green) is a wondrous treasure trove of unique and boutique retail including pottery, art and gifts as well as men’s and women’s clothing, shoes and accessories. Gold Street also features an independent bookshop, cafés, specialist camera and photography shops, several health services plus pet supplies and general stores. There is a lot to discover in this upmarket quarter!

Tiverton’s Market Quarter incorporates Bampton Street, Market Walk and Tiverton Pannier Market, which offers weekly general markets as well as a monthly farmers’ market. This quarter has some of the longest standing independent shops and stalls in the town with a mixture of retail, including a dedicated zero waste shop, florist, games store, antiques, fashionware, a health store, cobblers, post office, cafés, carpets, wool shop, a newsagents and lots more. It’s a thoroughfare of eclectic retailers.

Many of Tiverton’s businesses have been open throughout the pandemic providing trading for essential supplies.  Tiverton Market has been highlighted regionally as an example of best practice in Devon.

Tom Nott, Acting Market Manager, said:

"Since 1 June, the Market has been able to welcome back more of our regular traders. To accommodate this change, we have had to create separate entry and exit points on all sides of the market and have encouraged traders to utilise our folding glass doors to trade inside and out. This reduces the need for queuing and provides extra ventilation. Others measures implemented include; provision of sanitiser at entrances/exits, collection points for phone and collect orders, enhanced signage, hand wash station and limit on number of customers in the hall at any time. On the whole, customers have adjusted to the new changes around the market and individual stall guidance very well. The market traders have been fantastic throughout and really appreciate the support that they have received from the local community, they will need it now more than ever so please continue to visit Tiverton pannier market."

Adrian Welsh, Group Manager for Growth, Economy and Delivery, said:

"Our independent shops have adapted superbly to the current climate. Many businesses are offering call and collect, internet orders or delivery services to reduce queuing. Our shops have adapted their businesses, created websites, produced livestream updates with fashion shows showcasing new stock. Collection points have been arranged, changes to opening hours and limited numbers in stores (some have even introduced a booking system too for private shopping sessions), to reduce the number of customers in the shop at one time. Shop layouts have had to change with some bringing their tills to the front and serving the community from their doors. Local businesses need your support now more than ever."

The Mayor of Tiverton, Cllr Colin Slade, said:

"I am very grateful for the help and support the Town and Town Council have received from MDDC. Their officers' expertise has helped ensure that the reopening of the Town Centre has gone smoothly for the benefit of shoppers and businesses alike. Now that most shops and hospitality business are open again, I hope people will buy locally and make the most of what Tiverton has to offer. Of course while maintaining social distancing and staying safe!"

A grant from the European Regional Development Fund has enabled the high streets to reopen safely. Free 2-hour parking is available in Market Place car park throughout August and September to help our town centres thrive. Public toilets are open in the town centre, which have been adapted for single-use. When coming into town, remember to follow the signs and guidance, be patient of others and wear a mask. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms must remain at home and get tested – do not visit the town centre if you are unwell or have been in close contact with another person with symptoms.