A Thrifting Guide to Somerset West
Our town is known for many things: beautiful mountain views, family-friendly neighbourhoods, fantastic golf courses and a relaxed village atmosphere. What might surprise you, though, is that it’s also something of a thrifter’s paradise. And many of the thrift shops in Somerset West are clustered around the village centre, making it easy to park once, wander from shop to shop, and stop for a coffee or lunch along the way. Here is a round-up of our favourites.
Charity Shops
Every bargain comes with a little extra purpose. These shops support local charities and community organisations, making every purchase a small investment in both the planet and the people around us.
U-turn Thrift Shop
One of the newer additions to Somerset West’s thrift scene, U-turn is well worth a visit. Every purchase helps support U-turn’s work in helping people experiencing homelessness rebuild their lives through rehabilitation, skills development and employment opportunities. Expect a good selection of pre-loved clothing, including formal dresses, as well as a few furniture pieces and household finds.
Address: 11A St James Street, Somerset West (next to The Shed)
Thrift Street Somerset West
More than just a thrift shop, Thrift Street forms part of the Somerset West Night Shelter’s work in restoring dignity and creating opportunities for people experiencing homelessness. Every purchase supports programmes that include accommodation, skills development, meals and employment opportunities.
Address: 71 Church Street
Helderberg Hospice Charity Shop
Situated on Main Road, the Hospice Shop has long been one of the town’s favourite treasure hunts. If you’re willing to spend a little time browsing, you’ll find everything from furniture and décor to clothing, books, shoes and household goods. Every purchase helps support the incredible work of Helderberg Hospice.
Address: Seven Oaks Building, 150C Main Road
The Bargain Box
Run entirely by volunteers from the Rotary and Lions Clubs, Bargain Box has been raising funds for local charities for more than 30 years. It’s packed with affordable clothing, books, household items and plenty of bric-a-brac. It’s the sort of place where you never quite know what you’ll walk out with – and that’s half the fun.
Address: 1b Dirkie Uys Street, Somerset West
HSFA Charity Shop
Open every Friday (and the first Saturday of each month), browse clothing, books, furniture, homeware, puzzles, paintings and more, knowing that every purchase helps support the Helderberg Society for the Aged and the important work they do in caring for older members of our community.
Address: 121 Lourensford Road
Thrift & Thrive
Thrift & Thrive is a retail training centre that equips women with practical retail skills while they earn an income. Every purchase supports this empowering initiative while giving pre-loved fashion a second life.
Address: 63 Caledon Street
Curated Boutiques
If you love beautifully presented rails, quality brands and carefully selected pieces, these boutiques offer a more curated thrifting experience.
Between Us Boutique
Between Us specialises in carefully curated pre-loved ladies’ clothing, featuring both European and local brands. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something stylish, timeless and a little different.
Address: Helderberg Village Walk, Caledon Street
Crowe Vintage
One of the newer names in town, Crowe Vintage has quickly built a following for its beautifully curated collection of premium pre-loved fashion. Expect quality pieces, contemporary styling and plenty of wardrobe inspiration.
Address: Shop 5B, Drama Street, The Avenues
The Store Clothing
Stocking quality pre-loved clothing for women, men and children, you’ll find designer labels, everyday classics and even quality toys, all carefully selected and beautifully displayed.
Address: 74 Andries Pretorius Street
My Emporium
If your favourite part of thrifting is the hunt, My Emporium delivers. Packed floor-to-ceiling with clothing – including an excellent selection of winter jackets and coats – this is the sort of place where patience is often rewarded with an incredible find.
Address: 140 Main Road
Thrift King
Another favourite for serious bargain hunters. With racks full of clothing at affordable prices, Thrift King rewards those willing to spend a little time browsing.
Address: Fountain Square, 136 Main Road
Furniture & Home Finds
From restored antiques to vintage décor, second-hand furniture and unexpected home finds, these stores are perfect for anyone looking to give their home a little more character while shopping sustainably.
Odds & Ends
A Somerset West favourite for decades, Odds & Ends specialises in beautifully restored antique furniture and carefully curated vintage décor. The prices reflect the craftsmanship and quality, making it the perfect stop for anyone looking for a truly unique piece.
Address: 349 Main Road
The Shed
One of those wonderfully eclectic shops where every visit feels different. The Shed is filled with furniture, décor, restored pieces and plenty of interesting bric-a-brac that could become the talking point in your home.
Address: 11 St James Street
JB Treasure Trading
Part furniture store, part hardware shop, part sporting goods store – you never quite know what you’ll discover here. From second-hand furniture and appliances to fishing gear and sporting equipment, it’s well worth adding to your thrift route.
Address: Caledon Street, Somerset West
Thrifting really is a win-win-win-win.
You save money.
You support more sustainable shopping.
Many purchases help fund local charities and community organisations.
And you get to spend a morning exploring one of the most walkable parts of Somerset West.
So grab a friend, wear comfortable shoes, make a morning of it, and don’t forget to leave room for a coffee stop somewhere along the way.