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The Artisan Quarter Today
The Artisan Quarter is anchored by quirky independents that work alongside national chains, located in Hathaway Park, a Premier Inn and supermarket. It is a vibrant area where its ‘high street’ includes essential services and it is denoted by the historic Brunel Arches. As a main northern thoroughfare it is the gateway to the other town centre Quarters and a place where Chippenham’s unique offer can be found adjacent to the busy train and transport intersection.
The Artisan Quarter
town history & information
The Artisan Quarter
The Artisan Quarter is Chippenham’s creative gateway, framed by Brunel’s iconic railway arches and shaped by the town’s proud foundry heritage. Today it is a lively blend of independent shops, healthcare services, quirky businesses and cultural venues, alongside the town’s cinema and the much loved John Coles Park. With pubs, cafés and creative spaces dotted along New Road, Old Road and Union Road, the Quarter offers a vibrant, grassroots experience that reflects the character of Chippenham and welcomes both residents and visitors to explore.
Artisan Quarter History
Home to Brunel’s famous railway arches and with roots in Chippenham’s foundry and engineering heritage, this area has long been a gateway into the town.
Once lined with traders, craftsmen and small industries along New Road, Old Road and Union Road, it grew into a lively hub of work and community life.
The spirit of making and creativity that defined its past still shapes the Artisan Quarter today with access across the mainline railway bridge toward the town centre and Wiltshire College.
A Vibrant Mix
This area of Chippenham offers a vibrant mix of independent shops, specialist services and welcoming local businesses, creating a distinctive part of town where there is always something new to discover. From artisan food and independent retailers to trusted local services, the Artisan Quarter supports everyday life in the town.
Food lovers can sample unique dishes at Cousin Norman’s or pick up freshly baked artisan bread from Pano Bakery beside the main railway line. Nearby, 3D Computers provides expert services for PCs, laptops, servers and CCTV systems, while The Olive Clinic offers leading aesthetics and skincare treatments and partners with The GoodBody Clinic to provide professional phlebotomy services. The area is also home to trusted dentists and opticians, along with Pet Care, one of Chippenham’s longest running family pet shops.
A Unique Place to visit
Running along one of Chippenham’s busiest routes, the Artisan Quarter combines everyday convenience with character and creativity. Here you will find quirky independent shops alongside useful town centre services including a large national preloved store and a Post Office, while nearby businesses offer quality hairdressing, health and beauty treatments, nursery provision, opticians and dental care.
The Artisan Quarter is also home to Hathaway Social Prescribing rooms and Moose Hall therapy studio, reflecting the area’s strong community focus on wellbeing.
All this with access through the historic Brunel Arches into the other areas of the town centre with the river avon and parks running through make this a welcoming place to visit, explore and spend time.
Shops & Services
The Artisan Quarter is home to quirky independents, essential services and creative outlets. From vintage shops and specialist stores along Old Road and New Road to music venues and pubs, it’s an area where community and commerce meet. Workspaces are also emerging, with cafés and pubs doubling as informal co-working spots.
Art & Culture
This is Chippenham’s grassroots cultural hub, anchored by the Old Road Tavern and Cousin Norman’s, which both host regular live music and community events. Street art, independent makers and small businesses give the quarter a vibrant, creative energy.
Green Spaces
The Artisan Quarter is home to John Coles Park, often described as the jewel in Chippenham’s crown. With its bandstand, play areas, splash pad, formal gardens and leafy walks, it’s a focal point for community life and events throughout the year. The quarter also links into riverside paths and cycleways, connecting green corridors across the town.
Transport, Accommodation & Event Venues
Situated near the railway arches and pedestrian bridge, the quarter is easily accessed on foot from the station and town centre. The Old Road Tavern doubles as an events venue, while accommodation includes the large Travelodge Hotel at Hathaway Retail Park, offering affordable stays close to shops, restaurants and road links.
