Shops across the North East are finally set to reopen as lockdown restrictions ease.
As shoppers prepare to flock to popular big names, there are a host of independent retailers opening their doors in Durham City centre.
The city has seen big names such as Marks and Spencer, and M&Co leave the city centre over the last couple of years.
While city centres across the country have struggled to keep national retailers during the pandemic, Durham has seen independent retailers fill the void in the heart of the city.
From Monday, shoppers will be able to return to their favourite shops as the next stage of easing lockdowns begins.
Along with non-essential retail opening, outdoor hospitality can being, hairdressers, gyms, public buildings, and most outdoor attractions can open, along with self-contained accommodation.
Here are six independent retailers shoppers can visit in Durham as the city reopens.
The Boathouse
The clothing retailer The Boathouse opened in the former Scorpio outlet.
The family-run business sells clothes, accessories and Durham-themed items.
Elvet & Bailey, formerly Malin & Mac
Opening in the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, the store sells locally produced, handmade and ethically sourced gifts and home decor.
Freya Lillie
The clothing retailer launched successfully online before finding a base at Fowlers Yard in Durham.
Items for babies, children and women are designed, created and hand-finished in Durham and Bishop Auckland.
Meeple World
Specialist retailer Meeple World, which also has a shop on North Road, has opened another outlet in the old Smiggle stationery shop.
Opening in 2017, the company sells a selection of board games, merchandise, accessories.
Discovering Durham
The hub in the centre of Durham sells produce from local businesses.
Based at the Prince Bishop Shopping Centre, the shop aims to help shoppers buy local and support the high street.
The Kemble Gallery and Art Shop
Reopening on Wednesday, the gallery is based on Saddler Street in a building that is more than 500 years and is one of the last timber framed buildings left in the city.
The business has been open for more than 40 years and covers three floors, with fine art, prints, gifts and art supplies on sale.
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