A new independent gift shop described by customers as an “Aladdin’s cave” has opened on Hexham’s high street, offering handmade jewellery, locally sourced food and work by artisan makers.
Beyond the Byre opened at 6 Battle Hill on July 21, taking over the premises formerly occupied by the Green Bee. The shop is the first dedicated physical space for husband-and-wife owners David and Carolyn Asquith, whose craftwork developed from a hobby during the 2020 Covid-19 lockdown.
What shoppers can find at Beyond the Byre
The central focus of the shop is the couple’s handmade jewellery, made mainly from copper, enamel, silver and mixed metals. Its range also includes honey and preserves from local producers, alongside handmade and locally sourced goods from independent makers.
Those items include ceramics, paintings, cards, candles and other gifts, giving the shop an intentionally varied selection. David described the business as an “eclectic mix of artisan makers”.
The name Beyond the Byre reflects the couple’s former home, Cow Byre in Blanchland. The shop’s logo was inspired by a nearby disused barn, with the owners saying both references acknowledge farming and diversification in agricultural and rural areas.
Sustainability and affordability are also part of the business’s ethos. The owners said they use recycled metals where possible to keep the company’s environmental footprint “as small as possible”.
Workshops and exhibitions planned
Beyond the Byre plans to begin hosting workshops from the middle of August. Sessions are due to cover ceramics, linoprint and watercolours.
The shop will also stage an art exhibition every four weeks, allowing different artists to display their work. Carolyn said visitors are welcome to browse without feeling pressure to buy.
The owners said the shop has a calm atmosphere and is dog-friendly. It also has its own shop dog, Harry, who appears alongside Carolyn, David and shop assistant Harry in supplied imagery.
Owners welcome Hexham’s independent retail scene
Carolyn said the decision to open in Hexham came as independent shops were growing and local businesses were working together. She described the town’s business network as positive and driven, and said customers had welcomed the new shop.
Early sales have been “okay so far”, according to the owners, who said they were pleased with how the business was progressing. Customers had reportedly called the shop an “Aladdin’s cave” and said they would return to buy gifts.
Beyond the Byre is open at 6 Battle Hill, Hexham, where visitors can browse its handmade, locally sourced and artisan-made stock before the planned workshops and exhibition programme begins.