Many UK high streets aren't what they used to be, and it's not uncommon to see boarded-up shops or 'to let' signs hanging in neglected storefront windows, bearing only a few remnants of what was once a thriving retail hub.
Nevertheless, it doesn't mean they're dying completely, and there are some places that have joyfully maintained their beloved high streets, which are packed with independent shops and cafés.
It's these places that continue to draw in their loyal locals and tourists who enjoy days spent wandering around a pretty town packed with charm, where it isn't uncommon to stumble upon a hidden gem, whether that's a boutique store or a cosy independent bookshop.
One particular Welsh town offers just that, with its high street impressively packed with around 100 independent retailers, despite its compact size.
Nestled on the eastern edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog ( Brecon Beacons ) National Park in Powys, Wales, is the pretty town of Crickhowell, home to just over 2,000 residents.
While its neighbouring town of Abergavenny is known for its thriving high street, Crickhowell is equally impressive, if not more, thanks to its extensive collection of independent stores.
Owing to its flourishing independent scene and family-run businesses that have been operating for generations, the town has previously claimed the title of the UK's Best High Street.
Incredibly, Crickhowell is home to around 100 independent businesses, from galleries and bakers to bookshops, antiques, local produce and homeware, and there are no abandoned stores in sight.
Visit Crickhowell applauds its impressive accomplishment, commenting: "Crickhowell is lucky to not have any empty shops on the High Street, and with the help of the local community and visitors to the town, we plan to keep it that way!" And if you're wondering how the town does it, they explain: "CRiC's Tourism Association 'Crickhowell & Black Mountains Tourism' (CBMT) works to collectively boost the local economy and promote the town's independent shops and businesses." They further noted that it's "one of the few shopping streets left in the country where local businesses sell local produce and local products", where people will be "friendly and knowledgeable shopkeepers who take real pride in what they sell".
According to residents, the shops, which are mostly run by locals, haven't changed in decades and remain delightfully untouched.
Greg Bevan-Jones, co-owner of Latte-da Coffee and Kitchen, previously told the Express:....
