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One World Shop

Edinburgh's oldest fair trade haven beneath St John's Church, brimming with ethical gifts, vegan treats, and global crafts that empower artisans worldwide.

4.9

Nestled beneath the historic St John's Church on Edinburgh's Princes Street, One World Shop stands as the city's oldest fair trade retailer. Since 1983, it has offered ethically sourced gifts, homewares, jewelry, organic foods, and vegan treats from global artisans adhering to WFTO principles. Shoppers discover vibrant textiles, handcrafted toys, fair trade chocolates, and sustainable household items in this welcoming space, supporting producers worldwide while finding unique souvenirs.

A brief summary to One World Shop

  • St Johns Church, Princes St, Edinburgh, EH2 4BJ, GB
  • +441312294541
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Seek out vegan-marked chocolates and organic teas for guilt-free indulgences that support fair trade farmers.
  • Browse jewelry and textiles for unique, handcrafted souvenirs reflecting diverse cultural heritages.
  • Check for new arrivals like fairmined silver or eco-toys, ideal for gifts with a positive global impact.
  • Pair your visit with a peek at St John's stunning stained glass for a full cultural immersion.
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Discover more about One World Shop

Edinburgh's Fair Trade Pioneer

One World Shop, established in 1983, holds the distinction of being Edinburgh's longest-running fair trade outlet. Tucked away in the Terrace Community below St John's Church at the west end of Princes Street, it provides a serene escape from the bustling thoroughfare. Here, every item on the shelves tells a story of ethical craftsmanship, with suppliers committed to the World Fair Trade Organization's 10 Principles, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and community empowerment. The shop's inventory spans continents, featuring handwoven textiles from South America, intricate jewelry from Asia, and wooden carvings from Africa. Organic teas, vegan chocolates, and eco-friendly homewares round out the selection, appealing to those seeking meaningful purchases over mass-produced goods.

Global Treasures Under One Roof

Step inside to encounter a kaleidoscope of colors and textures. Baskets overflow with fair trade foods like ground coffee from Sumatra, turmeric orange tea blends, and hot cross bun spice mixes. Toys such as corduroy triceratops and mini crochet pouches delight children, while adults browse coconut bowls, soapstone dishes, and reusable liners. Jewelry gleams alongside scarves, bags, and cards, each piece marked for its origin and ethical credentials. Vegan and organic options abound, from Jurang hot chocolate to Divine chocolates, catering to conscious consumers. Home accents like rainbow stripe cup-and-saucer sets and star salutation teas add whimsy, blending utility with cultural artistry.

Setting in Historic St John's

The shop occupies a unique spot within the grounds of the Church of St John the Evangelist, a Gothic masterpiece built in 1816-1818 by architect William Burn. Descend steps from Lothian Road or Princes Street into this hidden enclave, where the church's towering presence frames the experience. St John's perpendicular Gothic design, with its vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows by Ballantyne and Allan, creates an atmospheric backdrop. Originally a market garden site, the church evolved with additions like the 1882 chancel and 1935 chapel, housing one of Scotland's finest stained glass collections. One World Shop integrates seamlessly, promoting values of community and transformation echoed in the church's history of social outreach.

Sustainable Shopping with Impact

Beyond retail, One World Shop delivers school talks and stalls for fair trade events, fostering awareness in churches and communities. Products emphasize low-impact production, from fairmined silver collections to recycled materials in toys and accessories. Purchases directly aid producers, funding education, healthcare, and environmental projects in developing regions. The shop's commitment extends to inclusivity, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-marked items. It's a hub for conscious consumption, where every transaction contributes to global equity while curating Edinburgh's most diverse ethical selection.

Discovering Hidden Charms

Visitors often uncover unexpected delights: a fly agaric cap soapstone dish for decor, or mini wooden whales as stocking stuffers. Seasonal arrivals keep stock fresh, from Eswatini kitchen goods to LIGA natural beauty items. The intimate layout encourages lingering, with friendly staff sharing artisan stories and product insights.

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