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Shopping in Historic WindsorFor shoppers seeking a daytrip or a lazy weekend getaway, plan a spending spree in Windsor! From the top of Bridge Street down to New, the street is lined with shops, small and large. Some merchants ply their trade to Windsor locals; others offer specialty items for visitors. George Street, from Baker to Fitzgerald, is closed to traffic, which makes for a safe stroll if you have toddlers or elderly family members.
Windsor cafÈs are bustling by 9 am for morning coffee or tea, and most shops are ready for business by 10 am. Proprietors close up around 5 pm; however, some are open Thursday evenings for you late shoppers. Several restaurants and cafÈs are open for dinner – their hours are listed in All the Places to Eat section. Check the MAPS locator for locations. Don’t overlook side streets and alleys, such as the Windsor Arcade, Old Post Office Arcade or Lachlan Square. Many interesting shops and services are tucked away inside and you won’t want to miss them. If you take a moment to look up and examine the storefronts along the 100 block of George Street, old Windsor is present. Architecturally, Windsor Riverview – the largest establishment on the block – captures the essence of old Windsor in a completely new Hawkesbury shopping development. Windsor Business GroupPhone: 0405 352 724 WBG is a membership-based group of business women and men who have joined together to preserve and promote Windsor and business in the surrounding communities in the Hawkesbury. The non-profit organisation interfaces with many Hawkesbury groups and individuals, both private and governmental, in a collaborative manner and with common goals. For details about membership call 0405 352 724, Max Jarman, President. Great Upcoming Events sponsored by WBG:
River MusicAddress: Corner of George and Bridge Streets, opposite Thompson Square What do a host of Australian musical icons have in common? They look to River Music, at the top of George and Bridge streets, for service, support and often equipment. Instruments are on display from every nook and cranny in four large rooms of the beautiful 10 Bridge Street. If it’s manufactured, River Music must have it. Percussion, fiddles, viola and bass, brass or woodwinds, acoustic or electric, you’ll find it here. Notice the unusual guitar amp behind Alex Lloyd, Shannon Noll or Richard Clapton? It’s a Reynolds Valveart, manufactured on the premises in the building that was once St Katherin’s (1860), the school for Hawkesbury’s young ladies. These amps are of stunning woods – almost a work of art! Today, Reynolds Valveart amps are used by some of Australia’s leading guitarists and top line artists – Dave Leslie (The Baby Animals), Chris Karmzelas, who plays for Anthony Calea and Tina Arena, and Michael Dolce, playing for Deltra Goodrom and Deni Hines. What a client list! River Music staff love what they do for the experienced musician or the novice, and musicians love them. Owners and staff are working musicians, performers, sound technicians and teachers. If you ask for musical advice here, you can depend on a professional and qualified answer. Windsor Riverview Shopping CentreAddress: 227 George Street Windsor Riverview Centre is conveniently placed in the centre of George Street shopping district, and is home to some 28 shops and service providers. The complex seems to gain bigger crowds daily – the atmosphere charged as we shop for recreation and fun. More and more Hawkesbury customers find time to browse, shop and relax over coffee or tea. Don’t miss the Riverview Terrace which is a great spot for outdoor dining – choose some delectable from the Food Court and enjoy the view. The greatest convenience of Windsor Riverview – an undercover car park.
Readers’ DenAddress: 199 George Street Owner, Barb Robertson has organised and reorganised this gem of used (and some new) book selections. In a short period, she has enlarged the collection, labelling each section to make the shop user-friendly. In each genre, you’ll find a list of suggested authors – others you may have overlooked. Often, there are surprise boxes of ‘half-the-price’ books. For browsers, the staff will direct you to tea and coffee and a couple of tables where you can relax. Forgot your “readers”? Reader’s Den provides, on loan, magnifying glasses of various strengths. Repeat customers (those over 40) find this a great service. Bloom’s ChemistAddress: 177 George Street (Moves to the new Woolworth Centre complex in June) Life’s little emergencies can crop up at the most unexpected times, but Bloom’s Chemist is well stocked to assist you, and a pharmacist is always on duty. And if you have time to browse, there are some very interesting decorative items and gifts to take back home. Peddler Pete – Authentic Street VendorAddress: The Mall Held back by propriety, we won’t ask, ‘how long have you been on The Mall?’ of distinguished-looking Peter Hughes. But we’ve been told he’s a colourful institution on The Mall, knowing all the latest rumours. And well he should, for his shop is the great outdoors where an assortment of bags, for every possible need, spill off his peddler’s cart. Peter is present daily, rain or shine, for an intelligent conversation or friendly bit of advice. Windsor Tobacco StationAddress: 166 George Street A look inside this shop and you’ll find the usual (smokes and cigars) and the unexpected: wine barrels, mugs and glassware for special occasions and celebrations. Take a moment to size up the 1-litre champagne glasses. (Imagine 1-litre of petrol in the glass. Now, compare the petrol price with the price of champagne — shocking?!) Ignore this fantasy trip: the items in the Tobacco Station make great wedding or birthday gifts. Finishing TouchesAddress: 173 George Street Open daily, Finishing Touches is possibly the largest gift shop on The Mall. And for kids who love to shop, the witches hats and capes, butterfly wings and tutus, collectable cars and other toys will delight. Stamps & PaperAddress: 5 Old Post Office Arcade This unusual shop is the brainchild of Susanne Pollard. Down Old Post Office Arcade and next door to Open All Hours lolly shop, Stamps & Stuff provides everything you need for card making, scrapbooking and stamping. Creative and distinctive stamps make for original stationery or thank you notes. Susanne’s classes in card making and other paper crafts are limited to seven students and a new range of Asian paper tole recently arrived for those more experienced card makers. Even if you are all thumbs, check out this shop. Open All Hours Old English SweetsAddress: 4 Old Post Office Arcade Who could have imagined that a tiny shop hidden away amongst other shops and cafÈs down Old Post Office Arcade would become a Windsor attraction? Visitors and locals alike find it as though led by a demanding sweet tooth! Our sense of smell kicks into full gear as we open the door. Jars and jars and more jars fill the shelves from floor to ceiling — a veritable storehouse of English lollies that will satisfy the sugar cravings of anyone. Yvonne Dickinson also knows well her toffees and chocolates, for shelves of exquisite sweets, boxed as for a perfect gift, set the mouth to watering. Drawn to the lollies we ate as children, even the sight of familiar wrappers brings us joy. This is a shop for lingering. Don’t overlook the exceptional ice creams near the front door of the shop. Windsor NewsagencyAddress: 168 George Street Well stocked and always open, the Agency will have your favourite weekend or weekday paper, so stop in as you make your way to one of the many cafÈs on The Mall. PonchitosAddress: 135 George Street Near the corner of Kable, Ponchitos brings an international flair to The Mall. This shop is reminiscent of the colourful and jam-packed tourist alleys of tiny Rosarito Beach on the west coast of Mexico. In front of the shop, skirts, shirts and wraps hang from racks, blown by a gentle breeze. Inside, rugs are stacked upon the floor and glowing candles line the few shelves. Toys, masks and piÒatas hang side by side, strangely fascinating. Santana belts out ‘Smooth’ and shoppers sing along. This is the Latin approach to merchandising that makes shopping laidback and fun. Ask Anthony about his merchandising trips to Central and South America – such a story. Anthony and Iliana have brought the Latin touch of Costa Rica, Peru, Ecuador and Mexico to Windsor. Comfortable cotton shirts, decorated leather belts and loose-fitting pants are great lazin’ around clothes for the summer months. If you want that sophisticated look, try on a Panama hat – men or women. Warm, brightly coloured woollen ponchos and beautiful sweaters will make a fashion statement when you’re on the go to colder climates. Taylormade CeramicsAddress: 127a George Street This miniature shop is home to charming and quaint ceramic pieces, crafted by owner Janis Taylor. Most are traditional decorative items, but don’t overlook those of fascinating African women in native dress. PINQAddress: 134 George Street You’ll find the latest fashions here to fill your needs every season. Selections are easy to find and prices are reasonable for a discerning shopper. Fricker’s ShoesAddress: 133 George Street This is one major shoe shop and it is no secret to the locals of The Hawkesbury. A larger display of shoes one cannot imagine – Fricker’s Shoes is a destination shop in Windsor. A queue often forms as shoppers crowd throughout the store, browsing and pulling shoes off the displays. Occasionally it is hectic – kids underfoot, teenagers giggling – but no one seems to mind, as Peter Fricker’s friendly staff work hard to serve everyone efficiently and quickly. For men, work boots, sports shoes and stylish dress shoes are a mainstay. Peter has on hand a range of Harley Davidson boots for bikers. Don’t miss the children’s section near the counter at the rear of the shop – or seasonal handbags displayed high along the walls. Of course, Fricker’s has not overlooked women – great dress shoes, sandals or business shoes, the choices seem limitless. So many shoes, so little time! Hawkesbury Book BarnAddress: 123 George Street This must be one of the largest selections of DIY books in all of Sydney – auto mechanics, construction, crafts for the ‘handy’ and those who want to be…. You’ll also find crossword puzzle books and other non-fiction staples at the Hawkesbury Book Barn. Books are on tables, so titles are relatively easy to spot. Be sure to check out the ‘under $10’ table, and ask the staff for help – they are friendly and informed. The Shop of LolliesAddress: 130 George Street Traditional sweets are the staple of this well-stocked lolly shop centrally located on The Mall. Parents and kids alike browse, trying to make a difficult choice. Little ones hold out a gold coin to the staff: “How much will this buy?” Shelves are stocked from floor to ceiling with some of our childhood favourites: chocolates, licorice, rosy apples, warheads, humbugs and bulleyes. Confectionery from England, America and New Zealand are part of the Lolly Shop’s mix. For kids’ parties, there’s a supply of piÒatas and mixed-priced lolly bags – small, medium and perhaps huge! Wouldn’t you love the owners’ job – sampling all the stock? Hidden Treasures Address: 115 George Street Research has shown that belly dancing exerts every muscle in the body, keeping your body flexible, toned and fit. Hidden Treasures owner Nora has known this for some time, and she stocks everything you need for belly dancing: hip scarves, head gear, accessories and jewellery. And if you love Egyptian treasures, gifts, crafts and cotton clothing, then step into this ever-growing shop. Smik ClothingAddress: 107 George Street Walking into Smik’s will make you feel like a night on the town. Silks, satins, taffetas – puffy brights or sleek little black numbers – there are far too many options for a quick run-through. Arrive early as the shop fills by midday. If you’re planning a wedding, formal attire for brides, bridesmaids and mother of the bride is a specialty of Smik. The collection is extensive – almost mind-boggling! It’s safe to say, you’ll surely find a dress you must have. For any social occasion, Smik has a great selection. These proprietors believe in providing choice and the perfect outfit for most occasions.
Country EssenceAddress: 109 George Street This upmarket gift and homewares shop is filled with country-style items for the selective shopper. Warm throws and quilts, pillows and linens are a good way to begin your search. Then, look carefully for the period pieces, some in cottage off-white, as they may be the staging for lovely bone china or crystal pieces. Country Essence is a work of art. Not only does it require staying power and time to search out Sandra’s wonderful collection, it requires more than one visit to find perfection. Hands of the Earth GalleryAddress: 105 George Street Gumburra Pottery, the craft of June Greenhalgh, is an expression of her love of the Australian Bush. Her many creations of stoneware are functional and ornamental. Gary loves the feel and warmth of timber. You’ll find finished frames and mirrors, large and small in the shop. The work of other craftspeople includes: furnishings – big pieces using recycled woods – paintings and ceramics.
Windsor Mall Craft MarketAddress: Between Fitzgerald and Baker Streets, The Mall Crafts, music, local produce and the turning water paddlewheel are the staples of the Windsor Mall Crafts Markets each Sunday. Every Sunday is special on The Mall, somewhat like a neighbourhood party with tall umbrellas and crafts carts lining George Street for two long blocks and a constant parade of people. Hawkesbury farmers are on hand with corn, strawberries and zucchini. Jams, jellies and honey get a fair display as well. CafÈs and restaurants are always open – it’s a big country market fair.
Hawkesbury Aus ShopAddress: 92 George Street (across from the Macquarie Arms Hotel) This shop of only Australian-made items is a favourite of all tourists who make their way to the Hawkesbury and Windsor. » Lachlan Court - Corner of Baker Street &The MallTop, Top, Top FashionsAddress: Shop 3, Lachlan Court Cute and quirky fashion statements pack this little shop. Racks and racks to choose from will keep you browsing and shopping for hours. Accessories are plentiful. So many terrific options for that weekend party can be found here. KarinaGlen Arts & Crafts GalleryAddress: Shop 9, Lachlan Court Wendy Douglass, artist, teacher and business entrepreneur has brought her talents all together at KarinaGlen. You’ll find selections of art supplies, paper toles, wood pieces, card making and scrapbooking materials and, great beads to create your own designer jewellery. When you visit the shop, ask Wendy about the war medals that she mounts and frames – an impressive collection.
House of WindsorAddress: Shop 6, Lachlan Court Crystal, candles, mirrors and pillows – so many accessories help make a house ‘a home’. House of Windsor offers a large collection of contemporary homewares and perfect gifts displayed artfully from floor to ceiling. For a best friend’s birthday or a wedding anniversary and for those with a taste for modern, House of Windsor is your shop. Smik SurfAddress: Shop13, Lachlan Court Fantasies of California Dreamin’ and the Beachboys era jump out when you walk into this Smik Surf. Board shorts, bikinis, tanks and towels, you can find all the latest hip fashions and more. The staff are the greatest and they aim to please. Creative EraAddress: 1 Thompson Square
Classes for kids are already quite popular and many Friday evenings, Creative Era hosts a “social scrap”. Expansion is already in the air with this owner – materials for special invitations are arriving – and the staff is promising future “Scrap Weekends” with an overnight stay on the premises. “Come in and Spend Some Time Scrapbooking Your History in Ours” seems the perfect tag line for this great old house. With this reincarnation of "The Doctor's House" the proprietor aims to please, so customer service Is not an oxymoron with this dedicated staff. Rather, it's the key to happy, returning customers.
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