Curly Magpie was established in 2012 to bring regular Vintage & Handmade Fairs to the heart of the National Forest, covering Swadlincote, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Burton upon Trent and Derby. What began as a love for vintage treasures, handmade creativity and community has grown into a much-loved series of events and a permanent high street home.

Today, Curly Magpie hosts a busy calendar of artisan markets at beautiful local venues including The Riding School at Calke Abbey in Ticknall, Conkers Discovery Centre in Moira near Ashby-de-la-Zouch, and Blackfordby in North West Leicestershire. Each event brings together a carefully curated mix of stallholders offering vintage finds, handmade goods, crafts, food and drink. To stay up to date with upcoming events and news, visitors are encouraged to follow the Curly Magpie Facebook Page.

At the centre of it all is The Curly Magpie Wonderful Shop, located at 64–66 High Street, Swadlincote (DE11 8HS), open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm. The shop is a joyful treasure trove of locally made finds and thoughtful gifts, filled with beautiful greeting cards, unique presents, local honey, Hampstead Tea and Mr Fitzpatrick’s cordials, alongside much-loved classics such as Cornishware and The English Soap Company.

Shoppers will also discover a lovely collection of kitchenware, stationery, books and journals, as well as haberdashery supplies, including a great selection of wool for makers and crafters. A carefully chosen range of local traders bring their handmade items into the shop, keeping it vibrant and interesting all year round and making it the perfect place to find a truly unique and wonderful gift.

In 2025, Curly Magpie proudly celebrated ten years on Swadlincote High Street and purchased its forever home, The Curly Magpie Wonderful Shop. Looking ahead to 2026, an exciting new creative workshop space will open upstairs, offering a welcoming place where inspiration, creativity and community can flourish.

Curly Magpie is more than just a market or a shop – it’s a celebration of creativity, reuse, local talent and community spirit. Everyone is welcome, whatever they’re selling or seeking, and ideas are always encouraged. Friendly, inclusive and full of character, Curly Magpie continues to support local makers, promote local attractions and bring people together across the East Midlands.