This week is Love Your High Street Week, a celebration of the independent businesses at the heart of our communities.
We’re lucky to be a part of brilliant communities, and a big part of what makes them brilliant is the independent businesses on the high streets: the cafés, delis, shops and makers we all pop into!
To mark the week, we’re shining a light on four of our local favourites, one in each of the areas where we have a branch.
Lunch sorted at Cleo’s Delicatessen, Arnold
Our first stop is Arnold, where Cleo’s Delicatessen is a deli and coffee specialist in the heart of the town.
Based in The AMP on Market Place, Cleo’s serves made-to-order sandwiches, fresh salads, hot food and bakery, plus coffee and tea.
It’s not just about lunch, either. You can pick up speciality groceries and local products to take home, so you’re supporting other local producers too. Why not swing by for your lunch this week?
Fresh flowers at FlowerLife, Sutton in Ashfield
Next up is Sutton in Ashfield, home to FlowerLife, a team of expert florists with 40 years of experience behind them.
They create gift bouquets and arrangements, with same-day delivery or collection across Mansfield and Ashfield, and you can add balloons, chocolates, teddies or scented candles to make it extra special.
They also do wedding flowers, seasonal pieces (including Christmas wreaths and bouquets) and funeral flowers, delivered with care to funeral directors across Nottinghamshire. Treat yourself or someone you love this week!
A hidden gem at The Potting Shed, Carlton
Over in Carlton, you’ll find The Potting Shed, a micro garden centre nestled at the top of Carlton Hill.
Small in size but big on character, it’s the place to find indoor plants to brighten up your home and outdoor blooms for the garden or balcony, plus unique pots, tools and accessories.
It’s well worth a wander up the hill to say hello.
Treasure hunting at Whittle & Wolf, Mapperley
Last but not least is Mapperley, where Whittle & Wolf is a treasure trove of trinkets on the high street. Established in Nottingham in 2019, it’s full of hand-picked vintage finds, decorative items and beautiful dried and preserved flowers, from single stems to full bouquets.
The Mapperley store opened in 2024 and stocks over 75 independent brands, including artwork, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and homewares, handmade by makers who mostly live locally.
And there’s more to celebrate, as Whittle & Wolf has just opened a second store in the village of Ruddington, just south of Nottingham!
Shop local this week and beyond
We’re proud to support our local communities, and Love Your High Street Week is the perfect time to see what you can find. Take a wander down your local high street, support an independent business, and happy hunting!