We Visited Ahead of Goodsheds 5th Anniversary this Weekend – and Didn’t Want to Leave!
This August Bank Holiday weekend, Goodsheds in Barry is inviting the community to help celebrate a remarkable milestone—their 5th birthday with a series of unique offers, workshops and events – making it the perfect time to visit!
A long term fan of the venue, I went across to speak to the small independent shop owners there to discover more of what’s on offer – and I wasn’t disappointed.
If you haven’t been before, Goodsheds provides a unique experience in a truly stand-out venue in the heart of Barry.
Cleverly transformed from its railway heritage into three distinct but interlinked venues, you’ll find an inviting backdrop for shopping, dining, and relaxing (as well as office workspaces and even places to stay!)
Each corner of Goodsheds has its own character, and together, it delivers an experience that feels modern yet rooted in Barry’s history, with delicious coffee (and even a drive through coffee shop), a great selection of unique food and drink outlets as well as a wonderfully curated collection of independent shops, all stocked with goodies that you won’t find on the high street.
You can find the full list of outlets on their own pages here: https://www.goodshedsbarry.co.uk
The independent shops are a delight to browse, with each offering something special – whether it’s boutique fashion, handcrafted gifts, sustainable gins or homeware with flair. It’s refreshing to see small independent businesses thriving in such a vibrant setting, and every shop had it’s own distinct personality.
This was officially a strictly work visit, but of course I came away with a new outfit, some goodies for my dog, a couple of birthday cards and an awful lot of inspiration… I dare anyone to visit and walk away empty-handed, no matter how hard you try!
Oh – and if you love vintage, from vinyl to vintage clothing, this place definitely doesn’t disappoint!
It’s that kind of place where everything is an absolute delight – and if you haven’t visited yet you’ll be missing out.
However, it’s not all about shopping and you’ll find lots of other businesses here too, from nail artists, ear wax removal specialists and even dog grooming, not to mention lots of small businesses based inside the venue’s start up units.
And then there’s the food!
No visit to Goodsheds would be complete without indulging in the incredible food and drink on offer. Goodsheds is a haven for foodies: from tempting street food to artisan coffee and sweet treats, the choice is exceptional in The Sidings.
Perhaps the most unique feature of Goodsheds is that you don’t have to all order from the same venue.
I want Pizza, my husband wants what is perhaps the world’s biggest burger, both sold in different outlets, along with drinks from a bar or milkshakes for the kids – ordering is via an app which lets you choose the food you want from any or all of the outlets, pay for it all together and the food and drinks will be brought direct to your table. It’s the perfect solution for fussy families who want to eat together but not necessarily eat the same thing.
I cannot close off without mentioning the much-loved branch of Cobbles outside – perhaps the most unique sandwich bar in Barry.
Cobbles is the home of artisan sandwich ‘the Reuben’ and some of the most delicious home made sausage rolls, sweet treats and other handmade delicacies are not to be missed. Started by owner Chloe in Ogmore by Sea, this branch is truly a credit to the brand, with the cheerful young man joyful and happy to explain all ingredients and how they are all freshly made – his enthusiasm and knowledge is a refreshing change from the normal grunt of acknowledgement in sandwich bars these days and is very much a testament to everything about Goodsheds.
The Reuben is a local legend made with local brisket (sourced from local butchers and slowly-roasted overnight), sauerkraut, Cheddar, Pickles and Cobble’s ‘Russian dressing’. I am told it’s a taste you won’t want to miss, but then the same can be said for most of the food at Goodsheds – it’s foodie heaven!
Today’s visit was sadly strictly business and my current diet (6lbs left to target and counting) meant I avoided sampling the delicious food today, (although I did take home sausage rolls for my hubby) but we’ve been lots and can confirm first hand that the chicken tenders truly are to die for, as is the artisan pizza – and don’t get me started on the fabulous selection of drinks and desserts on offer!
When will you visit?
You can tell, I’m sure that we love the place. Everything about it is vibrant, fresh and enjoyable but even more, what makes me and my other half keep visiting is the atmosphere – and believe me, we haven’t even covered it all in our short visit (sincere apologies to anyone we missed!)
Goodsheds isn’t just a place to shop or eat – it’s a social hub. Families, couples, and groups of friends all mingle, giving the space a warm and welcoming buzz. Whether you’re there for brunch, a shopping spree, or a relaxed evening drink, Goodsheds manages to feel both lively and laid-back.
This weekend is a really great time to visit, as across the venue visitors can enjoy a series of treats and special offers.
As well as all the normal traders, you’ll also find an indie market, where 20 independent traders will complement the site’s small independent traders on-site, as well as food and drink offers and special events.
The venue will also extend a warm welcome with special opening hours across the weekend, inviting visitors to drop in at their leisure and soak in the festive atmosphere.
It’s a heartwarming gesture of celebration—from the Goodsheds community to its patrons—thanking everyone for five vibrant years of support, creativity, and independent spirit.
We will almost certainly be popping in again over the weekend – and it goes without saying we’ll continue to be regular visitors in this dog-friendly, people-friendly and altogether unique local destination.
Keep up to date here and on Goodsheds social media: https://www.goodshedsbarry.co.uk
