Best independent shops in Barrow to start a new year hobby in 2026

As 2026 gets underway, many people in Barrow-in-Furness are looking to embrace new hobbies as part of their New Year’s resolutions.
The town is home to a variety of independent shops offering materials, equipment and expert advice for those keen to learn a new skill or revisit an old interest. From crafting and sewing to gaming and model-building, Barrow town centre has several specialist retailers catering to both beginners and experienced hobbyists.
One unique option is Barrow Bullseye Club on Crellin Street. The only dedicated darts shop in Cumbria, the club provides specialist facilities for darts players alongside other indoor games. Customers can take advantage of a try-before-you-buy system on a range of darts equipment, while staff also offer services such as repointing, cleaning and advice on new darts. The space is also used for casual games, competitions, board rentals and socialising.
Crafty Hobbies, located on Cavendish Street, has been a fixture in Barrow town centre since August 2000. One of the longest-running hobby shops in Cumbria, it stocks an extensive range of model railway items, plastic kits, dolls’ house accessories and crafting materials. The shop caters to all abilities, from complete beginners to seasoned hobbyists. Owners John and Shelagh are well known for their enthusiasm and are always on hand to offer guidance and practical tips for projects.
On Dalton Road, Heath’s is a long-established, family-run business that has been serving the town for more than 50 years. It is one of the few places in Barrow where customers can order Warhammer figures and miniature wargaming supplies. Alongside this, the shop stocks art materials, model kits, paints, stationery and a wide selection of craft items, making it a popular destination for creative hobbies of all kinds.
Also on Dalton Road is Jenny Stitches, an award-winning independent fabric and sewing shop that has gained national recognition. The store supplies a wide variety of fabrics, patterns and haberdashery for those interested in sewing and textile crafts. Jenny Stitches also hosts sewing workshops at its premises, offering opportunities for beginners and experienced makers alike to develop their skills in a supportive environment.
Cumbria Sewing & Crafts, another Dalton Road business, provides a comprehensive range of supplies for sewing, knitting and other textile-based hobbies. The shop stocks fabrics, threads, needles, buttons, ribbons, zips and other haberdashery essentials, along with patterns, yarns and sewing machines. It is a valuable local resource for anyone creating handmade clothing, crafts or creative textile projects.
For gaming enthusiasts, South Lakes Game Exchange on Cavendish Street specialises in retro gaming. The independent shop stocks a wide range of video games, consoles, toys and collectibles, as well as retro arcade machines. It also offers space for gaming events and competitions, making it a hub for both collectors searching for hard-to-find items and newcomers looking to take up gaming as a hobby.
For something with a strong local flavour, a Barrow-themed Top Trumps-style card game is also available. The locally produced game features well-known Barrow landmarks and was created by community groups, schools and charities. Priced at £10, it can be purchased from Artworks Art4All on Duke Street, Heath’s on Dalton Road and the Dock Museum.
With such a diverse range of independent shops on offer, Barrow residents have plenty of opportunities to explore new hobbies and creative pursuits as the new year begins.