Expansion Means…

There’s More In Store

The Courtyard is bigger and even better. Stephanie Sparrow visits this popular shopping destination with a fresh new look. Photography: Paul Currie

There’s more of everything at The Courtyard this summer: more space, more choice and more-ish treats at its coffee shop and bistro.

Owners Simon Yates and Jonathan Addis (pictured above) have just unveiled the newly extended premises, which allows the Tarleton emporium to offer a larger range of fashions, gifts and home furnishings. And with plentiful free parking in the village, and in The Courtyard itself, it is a hassle-free day out. They even have dedicated spaces for coaches, as it’s located just off the A59 and is the ideal stop-off near Southport.

One of the best ways to appreciate this expanded shopping destination is to start at the new entrance on Church Road where the adjoining former toy shop has been acquired to become part of The Courtyard.

The conversion has created a showcase for giftware for all celebrations and occasions, including baptisms, weddings and memorials. Add the finishing touches to your purchase by meandering through into the new greeting’s cards and gift wrap department. The Courtyard is renowned for its selection of cards and now it exceeds expectations. Around 1,800 different options of cards are displayed in the extension, including the latest personalised styles, complete with a choice of stickers and verse.

Giftware leads seamlessly into the popular home fragrance department. Alongside candles and reed diffusers sit tea lights and lanterns – the perfect partners for alfresco evenings.

From those little extras to the essentials. The new homewares department, which has doubled in size, is next. Perhaps you’ll want to linger at the bedding and other soft furnishings from much-loved brands or move on to the cook shop. Is it your turn to entertain family and friends? Take time to mull over tableware from revered classics such as Portmerion and Royal Worcester.

Courtyard customers like to pop in for home essentials but also the more glamorous items like Champagne flutes, cocktail glasses or wine decanters – perfect wedding gifts.

Homeware leads to menswear – both smart and casual – and then lingerie and accessories for women. The Courtyard conveniently offers items such as dressing gowns and slippers all year round, not just at Christmas.

However, it’s time to celebrate summer and hats, fascinators and clutch bags in the new accessories area will complement any wedding or race-day outfit. A scarf or costume jewellery from a generous display will lend the finishing touch.

The ladieswear department has expanded by 30 per cent. With tops and summer dresses to enhance your everyday and holidays, and lightweight rain jackets for a staycation, it offers fashion for every occasion from popular brands. Meanwhile, the range of cocktail dresses and evening wear might encourage you to finally book that cruise.

Comfort is important during warmer days, and appropriate bags and footwear are a must. Ladieswear leads to versatile Cath Kidston bags, and relaxed footwear by Skechers and Reiker, among others. If the occasion demands a smart court shoe or sandal then The Courtyard has an extensive choice, and friendly assistants to help with sizes.

An intriguing staircase leads from the shoe department to the mezzanine level. Turning right at the top of the stairs reveals the lighting department which also features mirrors, frames and pictures.

The left-hand side of the mezzanine is dedicated to luggage. Whether you are planning a weekend with family, or a fortnight abroad there are suitcases to suit, including easy-to-steer four-wheel designs and lightweight models.

Ready for a coffee, perhaps lunch or even ice-cream? Both a coffee shop and The Barn bistro await at the foot of the stairs. Manager Jackie Carrier has created several different menus including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free, which draw on the best local produce. The bistro also benefits from pretty, outdoor seating where you can enjoy sharing a platter and a beer.

Shop, dine, relax is the motto of The Courtyard, and thanks to its easy layout, vast choice and tempting eateries, it fulfils this promise.

The Courtyard
94 Church Road, Tarleton PR4 6UP
www.courtyardtarleton.co.uk

Opening times
The Courtyard
Monday to Saturday: 9.30am-5.30pm
Sunday: 10.30am-5.00pm

The Barn
Tuesday to Saturday: 9.30am-4.30pm
Monday and Sunday: 11.00am-4.00pm

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