A much-loved holistic and wellbeing gift shop has opened its doors after moving into a brand-new location in Walkden.

After 29 years in previous spaces, the shop, Clouds, moved into a new location in Walkden town centre on Friday 19 September.

The family-run business says this is the beginning of an exciting new chapter, where the store will reaffirm its place as a cornerstone of the Walkden community from an improved space at Unit 21 inside Ellesmere Shopping Centre.

Founded in 1987, Clouds has grown from a small barrow in the shopping centre square into a beloved destination for those seeking crystals, incense, spiritual books, handmade gifts, and meaningful wellbeing treasures.

The new shop, still in the heart of Walkden, offers a fresh layout with more space, a calming atmosphere, and expanded room for workshops and community events.

Clouds is a family-run store in the heart of Walkden.

“Opening the new shop feels like the start of a whole new journey for us,” says owner Rebecca Derbyshire. “The support we’ve had from our customers through the move has been incredible. It shows that independent shops can not only survive but thrive when there’s a real sense of community. This new space is for everyone who has walked through our doors over the years, and for the new generations discovering us now.”

At a time when many town centres face closures and challenges, Clouds says the reopening highlights the strength of independent retail and the value of local businesses in creating vibrant, resilient high streets. Loyal customers turned out in force for the opening, describing the new space as “welcoming,” “peaceful,” and “full of magic.”

The Clouds’ family ensured their story and values were literally built into the new shop. The new hand-painted shop sign features the star signs of each family member and friend who helped with the move; a unique, symbolic way of honouring both their history and the people who made this next chapter possible.

It’s a small detail, but one they say perfectly reflects the heart of the family-run store: independent, personal, spiritual, and deeply connected to community.

As well as retail, Clouds continues to develop a growing calendar of events designed to bring people together. Tarot workshops, gemstone jewellery making, reiki sessions, and mindful art evenings will all be held in the new, dedicated events space.

“We’ve had families shop with us across different generations,” Rebecca adds. “This move isn’t just about us, it’s about keeping Walkden’s high street alive, independent, and full of heart. We couldn’t be prouder.”

For more information, you can view the shop’s website here.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *