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New Creative Hub Smokey Crow Emporium Opens in Ashington Celebrating North East Art, Craft & Curiosities

ASHINGTON, NORTHUMBERLAND — A new destination for lovers of handmade art, heritage craft and the unusual is opening its doors in Ashington this May, as Smokey Crow Emporium invites visitors to experience a different kind of shopping experience.

Located at 30 Woodhorn Road, Ashington, Smokey Crow Emporium is a carefully curated emporium dedicated to showcasing affordable arts, crafts and curiosities created by artists and makers from across Northumberland and the wider North East region.

Blending the atmosphere of a Victorian curiosity shop with the warmth of a contemporary creative space, Smokey Crow Emporium offers visitors the opportunity to discover original artwork, handmade heritage crafts, upcycled décor, artisan gifts, photography, soft furnishings and one-of-a-kind pieces unavailable on the high street.

Unlike conventional retail spaces, Smokey Crow Emporium will open on selected dates throughout the year, creating special browsing events where customers can slow down, explore and connect directly with the stories behind the work. The next official open days are scheduled for 23rd–24th May 2026.

Founder “Hoppy” describes the project as:

“A home for creativity, craftsmanship and curiosity — a place where people can discover handmade work with soul and character, while supporting talented local makers.”

The emporium draws inspiration from the rich artistic heritage of the North East and aims to champion independent artists, traditional skills and handmade craftsmanship at a time when mass production increasingly dominates the retail landscape.

Smokey Crow Emporium is also actively inviting local artists, crafters and makers to become part of the growing creative community. The business welcomes enquiries from anyone producing original artwork, traditional crafts, handmade wares or unusual creative pieces inspired by the region.

The name “Smokey Crow” itself is inspired by the remarkable intelligence of crows — particularly an observed behaviour where crows use smoke to help remove parasites from their feathers, symbolising adaptability, resourcefulness and resilience.

Visitors can expect an ever-changing collection of locally made items, including exclusive handmade collections such as the popular knitted bunny range, alongside rotating displays of art, curiosities and heritage-inspired crafts.

Smokey Crow Emporium can be found at:

Smokey Crow Emporium30 Woodhorn RoadAshingtonNorthumberland

Website: www.smokeycrow.comEmail: info@smokeycrow.com

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