Christmas shopping
Ipswich’s eclectic Top of Town shops
For that old-world charm of shopping in independent stores in a traditional streetscape, head to Ipswich’s historic Top of Town precinct.
This Brisbane Street stretch oozes character and originality as well as the city’s trademark heritage charm. And even better – there are fabulous restaurants and cafes woven into the mix. Here are some of the retailers you’ll find in the Top of Town, Ipswich.
The Old Flour Mill
The historic Old Flour Mill Building is home to a range of business’s including two completely charming and original boutique shops – Embers & Twine and The Soul Cauldron. The first specialises in handmade gift items and scented candles and Soul Cauldron offers all things mystical and enchanting from books on spirituality to crystals.
Obsession Shoes
Handbags, jewellery and luxury aromatic products are also part of the mix at this lovely shoe shop. They feature hard-to-find brands from around the globe. Obsession Shoes – 197 Brisbane St. Phone 3143 1285.
Oh Jo Jo Boutique
There are many dazzling labels and accessories lining the racks here at Oh Jo Jo. Another Ipswich gem loved by locals and those who travel to shop here. Oh Jo Jo Boutique – 193 Brisbane St. Phone 3143 2981.
Arttime
It might claim to be an art supplies shop but Arttime is all this and much more. Also home to the new Art Smiths section showcasing local artisan works. Goleby’s Basement downstairs with music docos and live music from 4.30pm every Friday throughout December. Arttime – 203 Brisbane Street, phone 3812 1188.
Brad Kearton Jewellers
Jewel in the crown of the Top of Town might have to go to this family business. Here you can browse exquisite jewellery and watches or have a bespoke piece custom-designed and created. Brad Kearton Jewellers – 191 Brisbane St. 3281 6800.
CJ Vogler & Son – 140 years on!
Few can match this history! Voglers celebrates 140 years in business this year and is the longest running hobby shop in Australia. Specialising in everything from old-school model trains and planes to the very latest drones. That’s Danielle Vogler-Smith in the picture – she’s the sixth generation in the business! CJ Vogler & Son, 134-140 Brisbane St, Phone 3281 1440.
Would you like coffee with that?
Of course, we can’t mention Top of Town without giving a special mention to the many cafes and restaurants in this part of the city – including Rafter & Rose, Fourthchild, Heisenberg Haus, The Retro Diner and Ipswich’s own hipster coffee roastery in a converted warehouse Dancing Bean.
