Handmade at Helen's: Dumfries' Artisan Craft Sanctuary
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at Handmade at Helen's, Dumfries’ charming Saturday-only craft shop in The Crichton.
Handmade at Helen's is a charming craft shop nestled in Solway House at The Crichton, Dumfries. It showcases a curated collection of unique handmade artistry and local crafts, offering visitors an authentic taste of Scottish creativity. Open Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, it provides a welcoming space to explore, engage with artisans, and discover one-of-a-kind treasures.
A brief summary to Handmade at Helen's
- Solway House The Crichton, Bankend Rd, Dumfries, Dumfries, DG1 4TA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on Saturdays to access the full range of crafts and participate in artisan workshops.
- Engage with the artisans when they are present to learn about their craft and creative process.
- Allow ample time to browse thoroughly; the variety and quality of handmade items are extensive.
- Combine your visit with exploring The Crichton campus for a blend of heritage and culture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Handmade at Helen's location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Handmade at Helen's
A Hub for Local Craftsmanship and Creativity
Handmade at Helen's stands as a vibrant beacon for craft enthusiasts in Dumfries, located within the historic Solway House at The Crichton. This boutique shop celebrates the rich tradition of handmade artistry, presenting a diverse array of locally crafted items that range from textiles and ceramics to jewelry and bespoke gifts. Each piece reflects the skill and passion of regional artisans, making it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic Scottish crafts.Immersive Shopping Experience on Saturdays
The shop operates primarily on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, offering visitors the best opportunity to browse its extensive selection. Saturdays are also special for workshops and artisan meet-and-greets, where visitors can gain insight into the creative processes behind the crafts. This interactive element enriches the shopping experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for handmade goods and the stories they carry.Setting Within The Crichton Campus
Situated in The Crichton, a historic and cultural hub in Dumfries, Handmade at Helen's benefits from a serene and inspiring environment. The Crichton itself is known for its blend of heritage architecture and modern uses, providing a unique backdrop that enhances the charm of the craft shop. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while exploring the artisanal offerings.Engagement with Artisans and Community
One of the shop’s defining features is the opportunity to meet the artisans behind the creations. When present, these craftspeople share their techniques, inspirations, and stories, creating a personal connection between maker and buyer. This engagement supports local craftsmanship and helps sustain traditional skills within the community.Perfect for Thoughtful Souvenirs and Gifts
Whether you are a collector of handmade treasures or a visitor looking for a meaningful souvenir, Handmade at Helen's offers an eclectic mix of items that embody the spirit of Dumfries. The shop’s carefully curated selection ensures that every purchase is unique, making it an ideal place to find gifts that carry a story and a sense of place.Complementary Local Attractions and Craft Scene
Handmade at Helen's is part of a broader network of craft and specialty shops in Dumfries, including Timeless Galloway Crafts and The Treasure Trove. Exploring these venues provides a comprehensive view of the region’s artistic heritage and contemporary creative scene, enriching any visit to this culturally rich part of Scotland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust
2.5 km
Discover the architectural heritage of Dumfries at the Dumfries Historic Buildings Trust, where history is preserved for future generations.
Queensberry Monument
2.6 km
An elegant 18th-century stone column in Dumfries honoring the 3rd Duke of Queensberry and the town’s noble heritage.
Dumfries
2.8 km
Historic and accessible Dumfries Railway Station connects Scotland’s southwest with modern amenities and rich heritage.
Dumfries Tours
4.7 km
Explore Dumfries with immersive tours that blend history, culture, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Kingdom Scotland
5.1 km
Discover tranquility at Kingdom Scotland, a serene religious institution in Dumfries that invites spiritual reflection and community connection.
Isle Tower
6.6 km
Explore Isle Tower, a serene 17th-century Scottish tower house ruin guarding historic routes near Dumfries in picturesque Dumfries and Galloway.
Wardlaw Hillfort
8.2 km
Explore the ancient moated triangular hillfort near Dumfries with panoramic views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Waterloo Monument
8.7 km
A 150-foot stone tower on Peniel Heugh, built to commemorate the Battle of Waterloo and offering panoramic views across the Scottish Borders and Solway Firth.
Fourmerkland Tower
10.2 km
Discover the tranquil charm and rich history of Fourmerkland Tower, a secluded 16th-century Scottish tower house near Dumfries.
Little Dalton Kirk
10.6 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Little Dalton Kirk, a medieval parish church nestled in tranquil Scottish countryside near Lockerbie.
Comyn's Tower
11.0 km
Explore Comyn's Tower near Dumfries, a medieval stronghold entwined with Scotland’s dramatic history and the legacy of the Comyn clan.
Mossband Residential Park
13.1 km
Tranquil rural living with modern comforts and scenic views near Dumfries in the heart of Scotland’s countryside.
Threave Garden
26.4 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of Threave Garden, a botanical paradise in Castle Douglas, Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Threave House
26.5 km
Explore the beauty and history of Threave House, a stunning historical landmark in Scotland's enchanting countryside.
Threave Castle
26.9 km
Explore the medieval charm and natural beauty of Threave Castle, a hidden gem in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, perfect for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Castledykes Park
1.1 km
Discover Dumfries’ historic green heart where medieval heritage meets tranquil gardens and vibrant wildlife habitats.
Dock Park
2.0 km
Historic riverside park in Dumfries with family-friendly play, mini-golf, bowling, and scenic picnic spots beside the River Nith.
Burns Mausoleum
2.1 km
Final resting place of Robert Burns in a historic Dumfries churchyard, surrounded by centuries of Scottish stories and monuments.
St Michael’s and South Parish Church
2.1 km
Discover Dumfries’ oldest church, a historic landmark rich with medieval pillars, stunning stained glass, and the Burns’ Mausoleum.
Robert Burns House
2.2 km
Explore the intimate final home of Robert Burns in Dumfries, where Scotland’s national poet lived, wrote, and left a lasting legacy.
Dumfries Museum
2.3 km
Explore Dumfries’ rich heritage and the world’s oldest working camera obscura in this captivating museum of history and science.
Robert Burns Centre
2.5 km
Discover the life and legacy of Robert Burns in Dumfries’ historic watermill, featuring immersive exhibits and a vibrant independent film theatre.
Dumfries Fountain
2.5 km
Discover the Dumfries Fountain, a stunning historical landmark in Dumfries, showcasing the town's rich culture and architectural beauty.
VisitScotland Dumfries iCentre
2.5 km
Friendly and knowledgeable visitor centre offering expert local advice and resources in the heart of Dumfries.
Old Bridge House
2.7 km
Explore Dumfries’ oldest house ingeniously built into a historic bridge, revealing centuries of local life and heritage by the River Nith.
Devorgilla Bridge
2.7 km
Explore the captivating Devorgilla Bridge, an architectural masterpiece and historical landmark nestled in the heart of Dumfries, Scotland.
Robert Burns Statue
2.7 km
A majestic marble tribute to Robert Burns, standing proudly in Dumfries’ historic Burns Statue Square.
Lockerbie Road off-road driving course
2.8 km
Experience the thrill of off-road driving on varied terrain with expert guidance at Dumfries’ premier off-road course.
Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society
2.9 km
Discover your roots and explore South West Scotland’s rich heritage at the Dumfries & Galloway Family History Society Research Centre.
HMP Dumfries
3.0 km
Historic 19th-century prison in Dumfries serving local courts and national sex offender population with a unique castellated architecture.
Essential places to dine
Easterbrook Bistro, Bar & Spa
0.4 km
Modern tapas dining and spa relaxation in the heart of Dumfries’ historic Crichton campus.
Bankend Bar & Brasserie
0.5 km
Contemporary dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes and scenic views at Dumfries’ stylish Bankend Bar & Brasserie.
The Swan - Kingholm Quay
0.8 km
A welcoming riverside pub in Dumfries offering hearty British fare, great beers, and a friendly atmosphere at Kingholm Quay.
The Jolly Harvester Bar & Restaurant
1.6 km
A family-friendly pub and restaurant in Dumfries serving hearty meals with a welcoming atmosphere and outdoor fun for all ages.
Crumb
2.0 km
Modern dining meets local charm at Crumb, a welcoming Dumfries restaurant known for quality dishes and relaxed atmosphere.
The Hitching Post - DG1 2EQ
2.1 km
Casual American barbecue and grill in Dumfries with a standout gluten-free menu and hearty, authentic flavors.
The Globe Inn Dumfries
2.4 km
Historic 17th-century pub and Michelin Guide dining in Dumfries, blending Robert Burns heritage with modern Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky collection.
Truffles Bistro
2.5 km
Sophisticated yet cozy, Truffles Bistro in Dumfries serves exquisite local and international dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
The Bank Bar and Tapas
2.5 km
A vibrant, fully gluten-free tapas bar in Dumfries blending international flavors with a lively social atmosphere and inclusive dining.
La Dolce Vita
2.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Dumfries at La Dolce Vita, a charming and inclusive dining destination.
The Corner Eatery and Bar Store
2.5 km
A vibrant eatery in Dumfries serving fresh, homemade British cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere and a charming beer garden.
Granary
2.6 km
A vibrant Dumfries pub blending cozy dining, lively weekend entertainment, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
Bruno's Italian Restaurant
2.6 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and classic flavors in the heart of Dumfries.
Home Restaurant
2.6 km
A cozy family-run restaurant in Dumfries serving creative, locally sourced Mediterranean-inspired dishes with heartfelt hospitality.
The New Oriental Restaurant
2.7 km
Authentic Chinese dining in the heart of Dumfries, known for fresh ingredients and friendly service in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Handmade at Helen's
0.0 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local artistry at Handmade at Helen's, Dumfries’ charming Saturday-only craft shop in The Crichton.
Timeless Galloway Crafts
2.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and local artistry at Timeless Galloway Crafts, a Dumfries gem celebrating heritage and creativity.
Plum Boutique
2.2 km
Independent women-owned fashion boutique in Dumfries offering curated, sustainable wardrobe staples and seasonal styles with a personal touch.
The Fragrance Shop
2.4 km
Discover affordable luxury perfumes and beauty essentials at The Fragrance Shop, Dumfries’ premier scent destination in the Lorebourne Centre.
Bonmarché
2.4 km
Affordable and stylish ladies' fashion in the heart of Dumfries, with sizes 10-28 and expert styling advice.
Loreburne Shopping Centre
2.4 km
A vibrant indoor shopping destination in the heart of Dumfries, blending high street brands with local charm and convenient amenities.
Think Something Different
2.5 km
Discover unique gifts and specialty products at Think Something Different, Dumfries’ go-to shop for eclectic finds and friendly service.
The Range, Dumfries
2.5 km
A versatile home and garden store in Dumfries offering extensive products for every lifestyle and living space.
Mountain Warehouse Dumfries
2.5 km
Your go-to store in Dumfries for quality outdoor clothing and gear at moderate prices, catering to adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
Flourish
2.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local art at Flourish, Dumfries’ vibrant gift shop and creative studio on High Street.
Circle Vintage
2.6 km
Explore the charm of Circle Vintage in Dumfries, your destination for unique and timeless fashion finds that celebrate the beauty of the past.
La Maison Home & Gifts
2.6 km
Discover unique homewares and gifts with a personal touch at La Maison, Dumfries’ boutique of curated elegance and local charm.
ALTERNATIVE CENTRE(DUMFRIES)
2.7 km
Discover unique local crafts and memorable gifts at Dumfries’ welcoming Alternative Centre on Queensberry Street.
The Treasure Trove Dumfries
2.7 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of Dumfries at The Treasure Trove.
Vintage 109
2.7 km
Discover Vintage 109, a cozy Dumfries boutique brimming with unique, well-priced vintage and handcrafted homewares that add charm to any space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Normandy
1.7 km
A welcoming and relaxed pub in Dumfries known for friendly service and a cozy atmosphere.
The Riverside Bar
1.9 km
A friendly riverside pub in Dumfries offering diverse craft beers, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere beside Dock Park.
Troqueer Arms
2.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering great drinks, live music, and authentic Scottish charm at an affordable price.
Greens Sports Bar
2.0 km
Lively sports bar in Dumfries with big screens, great drinks, pool tables, and a welcoming community vibe for fans and locals alike.
The Lantern
2.3 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming pub in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden in a warm, traditional setting.
The Queensberry
2.5 km
A bright, comfortable bar and hotel in central Dumfries offering relaxed Scottish hospitality and cozy accommodation.
The Barrel
2.5 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Dumfries offering quality pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Dickies Bar
2.5 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively setting of Dickies Bar in Dumfries.
The Pleuchie's Howff
2.5 km
A family-run Dumfries pub blending traditional Scottish charm with lively live music and a welcoming community vibe.
The Stag Bar
2.5 km
A cozy, friendly pub in Dumfries’ town centre offering craft ales and a welcoming atmosphere near the historic Midsteeple.
Coach & Horses Inn
2.5 km
Historic 1801 pub in Dumfries offering authentic Scottish charm, quality cask ales, and lively live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Chancers Night Club
2.6 km
Experience Dumfries nightlife at Chancers Night Club, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
The Imperial
2.6 km
A friendly, fair-priced bar in the heart of Dumfries, perfect for relaxed socializing and local vibes.
The Five Arches
2.6 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Dumfries offering local brews, live music, and a cozy atmosphere for genuine Scottish hospitality.
Hole I' The Wa' Inn
2.7 km
A historic and lively Dumfries pub offering authentic Scottish charm, good-value drinks, hearty food, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Railway Social Club
2.4 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Black Box Music Institute
45.0 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
45.1 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Club Britannia
45.5 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Secret Carlisle
45.7 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
The Galloway Bar
57.9 km
Discover the charm of Wigtown at The Galloway Bar, where locals gather for great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
Square One
65.7 km
Vibrant Hawick nightclub with dynamic music floors and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of Drumlanrig Square.
Base Nightclub
66.1 km
Experience Hawick’s energetic nightlife at Base Nightclub, where vibrant music and lively crowds create unforgettable Friday nights.
The Border Club
66.4 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Border Club, a friendly social hub in Hawick, Scotland, perfect for travelers seeking community spirit.
The loose moose
68.6 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
The Warehouse
68.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Warehouse in Penrith, offering themed parties, great music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Penrith Conservative Club
68.9 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit and affordable fun at Penrith Conservative Club, a welcoming hub in the heart of Penrith.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
69.5 km
Discover the charm of Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom, a delightful pub and restaurant offering local culinary delights in the heart of Ullswater.
Union Club
71.6 km
A friendly, community-run social club with snooker and events, offering a welcoming and affordable night out in Innerleithen.
Bridge Inn
71.7 km
Discover the scenic beauty and warm hospitality at Bridge Inn, Peebles' favorite pub overlooking the River Tweed.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
