Corby is bursting with unique finds, delicious treats, and creative places, and we’re here to share 5 must-visit independent businesses that make this town one-of-a-kind. From the Indoor Market to the friendly shops at Willow Place and Corby Old Village, there’s so much to explore!
Corby is a busy town with a friendly vibe, and it is a great place to spend a day shopping, eating out, and meeting the wonderful business owners who help keep the town thriving.
Join us on our 5 stop tour of some of Corby’s small businesses that we think you’ll love.
Stop 1: The Present Shop, gift giving made easy
Located in Willow Place in Corby’s busy town centre, The Present Shop is a fabulous small business, thoughtfully created by owner Brian.
The team here know how challenging gift shopping can be, and this charming, well-stocked shop offers a gift for every person and occasion, making it an easy and enjoyable shopping experience. Shelves are packed with keepsakes, jewellery, bags, crystals, accessories, perfumes, homeware, bath bombs, and much more, all presented beautifully to inspire as you browse.
The Present Shop is a popular shopping spot in Corby where it opened its doors just over 5 years ago. Store manager Claire explained how the team take great pride in buying stock with their customers in mind, and how they ensure there are gifts for every budget too. They have designed the shop as an eye-catching and welcoming space where customers can pick up, feel, and even smell the products! A much nicer experience than shopping online, and the team are always on hand to recommend products and offer advice.
Claire loves the friendly, busy vibe of Corby and enjoys the creative freedom that comes with working for an independent business. She has fun designing the shop’s window displays and feels lucky to be part of a supportive, close-knit team. With the festive season fast-approaching, The Present Shop is a must-visit to get those gifts ticked off your list!
Stop 2: Bella Knit, wool, warmth, and community
You’ll find Bella Knit on the balcony shops in Corby town centre, and it is a cosy, welcoming space. The business is run by Belinda, who’s had a passion for knitting since her childhood, and her delightful shop has been at the heart of Corby’s crafting community for 12 years.
Inside, you’ll find everything for your next project—from vibrant wool and yarns to fabrics, patterns, and a variety of haberdashery items. You can even browse and buy a selection of lovingly created hand-knitted cardigans and blankets.
Bella Knit is the only shop of its kind in the Corby area, attracting people from near and far, eager to find the latest materials and inspiration. Belinda loves chatting with her customers, offering advice and expertise for all sorts of creative projects.
The shop hosts regular groups, including popular knit-and-natter sessions, where people come together to share their love of knitting and crochet. Social media has inspired a younger crowd to visit too, with chenille yarn toys and crochet patterns among the latest trends.
As the nights grow darker, Bella Knit is the perfect place to escape and embrace the warmth of crafting, Belinda told us how therapeutic it can be. Whether you’re a seasoned knitter or a beginner, you’ll feel right at home in this lovely little shop!
Stop 3: Unified Cards and Sugar Crush, a one stop shop for collectibles and sweet treats
If you’re a fan of trading cards, collectibles, or if you have a sweet tooth, Corby’s newly opened shop, Unified Cards and Sugar Crush, is a must-visit! Run by James who says it’s cool to be a nerd, this unique spot combines the best of popular culture and sugary delights under one roof, thanks to two brilliant small businesses joining forces, and it smells delicious inside!
Unified Cards is a shop for collectors of all ages. James started selling collectibles at car boot sales and opened his first business at the indoor market in Corby before expanding to the new shop in May this year.
Now, fans can find an amazing selection of trading cards, board games, Funko characters, merchandise, and memorabilia for favourites like Pokémon, Magic the Gathering, and Yu-Gi-Oh. The shop also hosts themed events that attract a loyal community and new fans, and James says he’s proud of what Unified Cards has become, it brings nostalgia to older fans and excitement for younger customers discovering these classics.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Sugar Crush, located within the same space, offers a delicious variety of sweets that you won’t find in the supermarket, freshly made cakes, bubble teas, and drinks. With selections from traditional favourites to special and rare treats from America, East Asia, and Canada, there’s something unique for everyone. You can also buy drinks in eye-catching character branded cans including Pokémon and Pusheen.
Eat in, or take-away options are available, and you can order for delivery too which is proving popular. The customisable bubble teas are a big hit, especially with students from the newly opened Corby Sixth Form, who bring a lively buzz to the shop.
Whether you’re hunting for a rare card or collectible, or looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, Unified Cards and Sugar Crush has you covered.
Stop 4: Weldon Tabletop Wargaming Store, a world of war games and model making
At Corby’s Indoor Market, you’ll find a range of small businesses including Weldon Tabletop and Wargaming Store which is great for anyone who loves tabletop games, model-building, and the thrill of gaming strategies!
It’s run by Dan, with the support of his stepson Stirling, and the shop brings their shared passion for wargaming and model-making to the town. They have built a community space that’s all about creativity and connection.
Initially focused on World War II themed games, the business has grown its range to include everything from quick-build model kits and collectible figurines to character paints and accessories.
Dan and Stirling are skilled creators, and their talents are evident in the custom display game they’ve made for the shop, showcasing unique, hand-painted figures in a battle-ready scene. The shop itself is designed with a World War II theme, complete with camouflage décor where you can step into battle!
Alongside the products, Weldon Tabletop and Wargaming Store hosts gaming events where fans can meet, share tips, and challenge each other on the battlefield. It’s a space where enthusiasts can connect, find inspiration for their projects, and gain support from like-minded individuals.
Dan and Stirling are proud to have turned a personal hobby into a fun and welcoming business and say it’s perfect for anyone who loves tabletop gaming, or a place to meet fellow model-makers, because you’ll find the supplies and the camaraderie all under one camouflage roof!
Stop 5: Pearl Ci-tea, sip, snack and enjoy in Corby’s Old Village
If you're looking for a truly unique taste experience, look no further than Pearl Ci-tea! This gem, in Corby’s Old Village, offers a delicious twist on street food with its signature Korean corn dogs and an impressive variety of bubble teas and bubble waffles.
Owned by Robert and run by young entrepreneur Mai-Yon, Pearl Ci-Tea is the only place in the area where you can find Korean corn dogs – a popular snack featuring skewered hot dogs coated in a crispy, golden batter and topped with unique flavours like cheese, potato bits, or a sprinkle of sugar for a sweet-savoury delight.
The perfect pairing with the corn dogs? Bubble tea! This popular drink has become a global sensation, loved for its customisable flavours and fun, chewy tapioca pearls. Bubble tea traditionally combines tea, milk, and fruit flavours, with tapioca pearls or popping boba that release bursts of fruit flavour. Pearl Ci-tea has something for every taste!
The shop has built a loyal customer following, thanks to its unique menu and welcoming atmosphere. Plus, it’s in the heart of Corby’s Old Village, where free parking and a lovely community of independent shops add to its appeal.
Robert and Mai-Yon hope to expand the business in the future, bringing the Pearl Ci-Tea experience to even more people in other towns. For now, Corby locals can order these treats for delivery in the area – so you can enjoy a delicious Korean corn dog and bubble tea right from home!
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