If your gift-buying style is of the browsing-for-hours variety, you could sort all your Santa duties in one place at the Aladdin's cave of secondhand books, handmade furniture, rugs and gifts that is Regent in Wantage. We spoke to manager Linda Mason.
Tell us about what you sell
We are a family run business; one of the biggest second hand bookshops in Oxfordshire, stocking over 100,000 books. We stock beautiful handmade oriental rugs and carpets. We also have a gift shop, including brands such as Sophie Allport, Wrendale, Tilnar Art and Cargo Jewellery, and a variety of cards.
How long has your business been going?
We started with one bookcase in the late 1990s.
Do you think Oxfordshire is a good place to run a business?
We find trading in Oxfordshire a pleasure, and Wantage is a lovely town.
What's the most challenging aspect to running a small business?
Our biggest challenge has been getting the public to know we exist.
What's your favourite product? Our bespoke pine furniture made to your specifications, in either 'Traditional' or 'Rustic' style.
What's the funniest thing that's happened in the shop?
Overheard: a little boy, whilst looking at Beebombs (Wild Flower pellets), saying “How cruel, blowing up bees!”
The Beebombs are part of a range of eco-friendly gifts in stock, which also include bamboo reusable products and Fair Trade, recycled aluminium bowls - see Regent's Facebook page for more updates!
Welcome to Daily Info’s 2023 Advent Calendar – 24 days of festive tips, free activities & local shopping suggestions!
This year's calendar offers a mix of Christmas suggestions, taking in traditions in Oxford and the wider area, and free activities & events in the build up to the big day.
