Monday, July 22, 2013

From Antwerp to Northumberland - A Concept Store

the old dairy A Concept Store
Well I promised a report back on my visit to The Old Dairy, a concept store in Ford, Northumberland so here it is. On approaching The Old Dairy you could be forgiven for thinking it wasn't very big. Well I couldn't have been more wrong - it is HUGE! The stunning views hit you right in the face as soon as you step into the grounds.
the old dairy A Concept Store
They even have a huge high chair if you want an even better view.
the old dairy A Concept Store
First things first, lunch at the champagne bar which is a quirky bar made up of pieces of granite and marble. No I didn't have champagne as I was driving.
the old dairy A Concept Store

Taking in the view you notice a sign pointing you to the Salvage Yard full of quirky architectural pieces.
the old dairy A Concept Store
Inside you are greeted by this huge speciman which is apparantley the largest breed of cattle in the world.
the old dairy A Concept Store
I can't show how huge this place is as it has all been fashioned from old barns and cattle sheds which have the individual stalls, that housed the dairy cows, now turned into individual vintage shops.
the old dairy A Concept Store
The original hay mangers are still insitu and hold a myriad of vintage goodies. This one housed a spider.
the old dairy A Concept Store
Stairs that lead up to the hayloft are filled with more vintage pieces. 
the old dairy A Concept Store
As if this isn't enough on exiting the barns you find a retro caravan filled with quirky gifts.
the old dairy A Concept Store
And just as I was getting back in the car I noticed another building
the old dairy A Concept Store
that had been turned into a handmade kitchen shop.
Now this is what I call a concept store. The couple that own it are friendly and ever so helpful and are rightly proud of the idea they brought back from a trip to Antwerp.

1 comment:

Rachel said...

It is a fab place to visit. In fact, we usually make a day of driving up, stopping at Powburn Antiques on the way (2 shops there), park at Etal (pub lunch), walk to Ford. There is a great little antique book shop (John Marrin Rare Books) near the Old Forge which is also an antiques shop. Finishing at the Old Dairy for more antiques and lovely tea and cakes. Must visit again soon.