Distracted: Merchants Of Fancy

There are places you go simply because you can't be bothered driving any longer. Then, there are places you drive to because they're worth it. Distracted is a fair hike from Oxford's main drag, so we suggest the car. And don't skimp on the parking ticket, thinking you'll only be ten minutes. Put in coins enough for the full hour. Maybe even two.

A gift shop, hairdresser, café, art gallery and Brazilian waxing studio in one, Distracted smells like good things (jam and soap) and it feels like good things, too (soft pyjamas and smooth brown paper). Sit at a copper-topped table, run your fingers over the Dibbern rainbow cups, then switch your attention to the handmade quilts, antique envelope magnets, and tiny tin train sets.

Husband and wife Natalie and Mark opened Distracted so they could “spend their days working side-by-side” whilst “retaining [their] sense of wonder”. We're pretty envious of their dreamy jobs. But more than that, we're inspired that two ordinary people could make it work. If there could be something that's more special than their shop, it's that.