Celebrating 50 Years of The Mugwump


One of Durham’s most popular independent shops, The Mugwump on Saddler Street is happily celebrating it’s 50th birthday.

It is a well-known fact that many shops are struggling at the moment, so to reach such an anniversary is an amazing achievement. We’ve compiled a list of the best independent shops in the region, and they too have been open and successful for many years.


“The Mugwump was the brainchild of Jean and Judy, who were two art students back in the 60s,” says Maria, a head shop assistant at The Mugwump. “When they first opened the shop in 1966 they rented two rooms. One was a café which was run by friends, and the other sold Scandinavian pottery.”

“Since then over the years the shop has expanded, so now Jean and her husband Peter actually own this whole building. So now we have three floors of gifts, arts, prints and frames, and ladies fashion.”

With a small and unassuming front window tucked away in an old building on Saddler Street in Durham, it is almost easy to overlook the treasure trove that is The Mugwump. However, once you step inside the shop, you never want to leave.

Boasting three stories in a stunning building, The Mugwump is the perfect lifestyle shop selling a little bit of everything you can imagine. There is truly something for everyone, ranging from Neal’s Yard beauty and cosmetics, to luxury ladies clothing from Sandwich, from delicious handmade confectionary, to beautifully painted kitsch pottery.

“I think the secret of this shops longevity is Jean’s passion and eye for bringing beautiful things to Durham,” said Maria.

The Mugwump is a stunning quirky shop and there is simply nothing else like it. Be sure to pay a visit when you are next in Durham.

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