Windsor Shopping

Shopping in Historic Windsor

For shoppers seeking a day trip or a lazy weekend getaway, plan a spending spree in Windsor!

From the top of Bridge Street down to Tebbutt, 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 Riverview, the shopping mall at the bottom of George and New streets is crowded, the Hawkesbury Regional Gallery (Deerubbin Centre) is in its third year of fascinating exhibitions and in May, the new Hawkesbury Regional Museum will open to the public its unique collection of historical artefacts.

Shopping

Windsor cafés 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 cafés 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, 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.

In recent years a renaissance occurred in Windsor, particularly on the south end of George Street. The Windsor Riverview Centre opened, and sensing this change many new owners took over numerous little shops and cafes below Fitzgerald Street.
If you take a moment to look up and examine the store fronts along the 100 block of

George Street, old Windsor is present. Architecturally, Windsor Riverview – the largest establishment in the block – captures the essence of old Windsor in a completely new Hawkesbury shopping development.

Windsor Riverview Shopping Centre

Address: 227 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 2222
Hours: Open 7 Days

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 carpark.
Windsor Riverview management is planning a number of fun events throughout 2008, so look for announcements in local Hawkesbury papers.

Readers’ Den

Address: 199 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 648
Hours: Daily, call for hours

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 Chemist

Address: 177 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 3010
Hours: Open daily at 9 am; weekend hours 10 am

Life’s little emergencies can crop up at the most unexpected times, but Bloom’s pharmacy 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.

Finishing Touches

Address: 173 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 8492
Hours: 9am-5pm; Sat 9am-4pm; Sun9:30 am-4pm

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.

Peddler Pete – Authentic Street Vendor

Address: The Mall
Phone: 0425 326 807
Hours: Daily

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.

» Old Post Office Arcade

Hands of the Earth Gallery

Address: Shop 2-3, Old Post Office Arcade
Phone: 0408 130 625, 0439 755 302
Hours: Daily 10 am

Gumburra Pottery, the craft of June Greenhalgh is an expression of her love of the Australian Bush. The bush is where June draws her inspiration and her many creations of stoneware are functional and ornamental. If you take time to browse, you can’t miss the playful and creative use of Australian flora and fauna.

The other half of Hands of the Earth Gallery is Gary Fowler. Using recycled woods, Gary loves the feel and warmth of timber. You’ll find finished frames and mirrors, large and small in the shop, and if you need a frame customised to fit your needs – just bring the measurements. “Personalised Timber” is his inspiration.

The work of other crafts persons include furnishings – big pieces using recycled woods – paintings, ceramics and the work of other potters make this shop a must when you are in Windsor.

Hands of The Earth

English Lolly Shop

Address: 4 Old Post Office Arcade
Phone: 02 4577 6428
Hours: Daily, call for hours

Who could have imagined that a tiny shop hidden away amongst other shops and cafes 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.

Stamps & Paper

Address: 5 Old Post Office Arcade
Phone: 02 4577 9100
Hours: Daily 9:30 am – 5 pm

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.

Hawkesbury Curtains & Interior Motives Ltd

Address: Shop 7, Post Office Arcade, 168-172 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 2212
Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am and by appointment

You won’t want to overlook this newest addition to the Old Post Office Arcade. Twinkling fairy lights light up an inspired window display of furniture, home accessories, linens, and yes, curtains. Curtains are the mainstay product, but this artistic interior designer and colour consultant offers products and services that every homeowner needs. Hence, the name “Interior Motives, Ltd”.

The shop plants innovative ideas in your head – bed linens, table settings, upholstery materials and great pre-loved furnishings, many large pieces. Lisa Carpinato works with homes of all sizes, colours and shapes. She’s a whirlwind of resources, willing to travel – she has a client in Mooloolaba – and she listens.  Combine these with her personal touch and her broad background, this may feel like home therapy!

Hawkesbury Book Barn

Address: 149 George Street
Phone: 02 4587 9989
Hours: 9 am - 5 pm

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.

Windsor Tobacco Station

Address: 166 George Street
Phone: 02 4587 7997
Hours: 10 am – 5 pm

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, calculate 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.

Windsor Newsagency

Address: 168 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 3083
Hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm

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 cafés on The Mall.

Ponchitos

Address: 135 George Street
Phone: 0410 008 326
Hours: Daily 10 am – 5 pm

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 piñatas 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. Fantastico!

PINQ

Address: 134 George Street
Phone: 0409 796 841
Hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm

Hot & sassy says it all about PINQ, a recent addition to The Mall. 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 Shoes

Address: 133 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 7266
Hours: Daily 9 am – 5 pm

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, functional boots, biker boots 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 the backpacks and 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!

The Shop of Lollies

Address: 130 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 2433
Hours: Daily 9 am

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 piñatas and mixed-priced lolly bags – small, medium and perhaps huge!

Wouldn’t you love the owners’ job – sampling all the stock?

Chameleon Leathers

Address: 129 George Street
Phone: 02 4587 9953
Hours: Call for hours

One of a kind’ is no exaggeration when referring to Chameleon Leathers. Chameleon’s tag line, ‘What Skin Do You Live In’, gives us a hint of the exotic and smooth skins – crocodile, alligator, lizard, ostrich – crafted into customised and tailored-to-fit boots, jackets, vests, shoes and purses.

Taylormade Ceramics

Address: 127a George Street
Phone: 02 4587 7037
Hours: Thursday-Sunday 10 am-4 pm

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.

Hidden Treasures

Address: 115 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 7089
Hours: Tues-Thurs, Sat-Sun 10:30am-4pm

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.  Every day, some new item appears. Part of Windsor’s international scene, all products are Egyptian made. Hidden Treasures is an apt name.

Oh-Faux-Real

Address: 117 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 7941
Hours: Daily

For those who love the “Shabby Chic” look, you must not miss this great shop – furniture, vintage wares, gorgeous chandeliers, linens, cushions, the list goes on and on. Think timber floors, tall windows and cornices, pastels…

Exquisite and sophisticated furnishings will live happily in a country house or a cottage at the beach – some pieces are quite large and need beautiful tall ceilings.

Country Essence

Address: 109 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 2317
Hours: Mon-Friday 10am-5pm; Sat-Sun 10am-4pm

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.

» Lachlan Court - Corner of Baker Street &The Mall

Top, Top, Top Fashions

Address: Shop 3, Lachlan Court
Phone: 02 4577 9800
Hours:
daily 10am-5pm

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.

Gaia’s Beauty

Address: Shop 7A, Lachlan Court, cnr George and Baker Streets
Phone: 02 4577 5885
Hours: Daily 10am

Step into Gaia’s from the hustle and bustle of  The Mall and you’ve entered the quiet zone, the calm before, or perhaps after, the storm. Peaceful colours, displays of crystals, fossils, oils, candles and delicate semi-precious jewellery – all beautiful offerings of Mother Earth line shelves and adorn counter tops.

House of Windsor

Address: Shop 6, Lachlan Court
Phone: 02 4577 5319

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 Surf

Address: Shop13, Lachlan Court
Phone: 02 4587 9710
Hours: 8:30am-6pm daily, Thurs till 9pm

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.

KarinaGlen Arts & Crafts Gallery

Address: Shop 9, Lachlan Court
Phone: 0408 750 306
Hours:
Tuesday-Sunday 10am; Closed Monday

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.
Arts & Crafts classes are offered Tuesday through Saturdays for adults and children. Around the long tables, instruction, laughter and jovial chatter are at the heart of these classes whether beginners or award-winning accomplished painters. What a great way to learn! 

When you visit the shop, ask Wendy about the war medals that she mounts and frames – an impressive collection.

Karina Glen

Smik Clothing 

Address: 107 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 3887
Hours: 8:30am-6pm daily, Thursday till 9 pm

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 mid-day.

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.

Hawkesbury Aus Shop

Address: 92 George Street (across from the Macquarie Arms Hotel)
Phone: 02 4577 6628
Hours: Daily 10 am

This shop of only Australian-made items is a favourite of all tourists who make their way to the Hawkesbury and Windsor. There are so many choices for a take-home gift, you’ll need some solid browsing time.

River Music

Address: Corner of George and Bridge Streets, opposite Thompson Square 
Phone: 02 4577 3355
Hours: Daily, Thurs til 7.30pm

What do a host of Australian musical icons have in common? They look to River Music, at the top of George & Bridge streets, for service, support and often equipment.  
Instruments are on display from every nook and cranny in four large rooms — if it’s manufactured, River Music must have it. Pianos, 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. 

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 Mall Craft Markets

Address: Between Fitzgerald and Baker Streets, The Mall
Phone: 02 4572 7348
Hours: Sun 9am-4pm

Crafts, music, local produce and the turning Mall 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. Cafés and restaurants are always open – it’s a big country market fair.

Windsor Craft Market

Windsor Antiques, Collectables & Vintage Trail

Address: The Mall and nearby locations

Here is a list of some remarkable shops, including the address, telephone number and hours of business. If you would like a brochure, please call Viktoria at 02 4577 8697 or Darren at 02 4577 2797

1. Rocking Horse Lodge

Address: 143 Pitt Town Rd, McGraths Hill
Phone: 02 4577 8697
Email: info@rockinghorses.com.au
Hours: Tues–Sun & public holidays; 9 am-5 pm

Featuring: handcarved traditional rocking horses, old wares, and a fabulous childhood and rocking horse museum.

2. Thompson’s Country Collectables

Address: 11 New Street/George Street
Phone: 02 4577 2381
Hours: Daily 10 am–5 pm

Featuring: across the board antiques and collectables from 1750 to 1950. Specialty: Victorian furniture, silver, china and glass.

3. Windsor Cottage Antiques & Collectables

Address: 267 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 4499
Email: windsorcottage@unwired.com.au
Hours: Wed–Sun 10.30 am–5 pm

Featuring: china, Australian pottery, Depression glass, toys, bottles, cigarette cards and cabinet plates.

4. Windsor Restoration Supplies

Address: 268 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 4853
Hours: Daily 10 am–5 pm

Featuring: antiques and fine outdoor furniture, brass period-style lighting and restoration supplies, include finishes, stains, hardware.

5. Bob & Dot’s Antiques and Old Wares

Address: 394 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 4055
Hours: Fri–Sun 10 am–5 pm

Featuring: all pieces have been restored, light fittings, tools, bottles, furniture and kitchenalia.

6. Dave’s Furniture Bargains

Address: 7 Fitzgerald Street
Phone: 02 4577 3055
Hours: Mon-Sat from 9:00 am.

Featuring: Quality new and pre-loved furniture, antiques, paintings, lamps, kitchenalia and much more.

7. Gaia’s Beauty

Address: Shop 7A, Cnr George & Baker Street
Phone: 02 4577 5885
Hours: daily

Featuring: crystals, fossils, oils, candles and delicate semi-precious jewellery – all beautiful offerings of Mother Earth 

8. Reader’s Den

Address: 199 George Street
Phone: 02 4577 6481
Hours: Daily, call for hours

Featuring quality secondhand books, magazines, CDs, videos, and trophies. From floor to ceiling, books, books, books…

 

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