Strickland &Holt

Strickland & Holt has traded from the same building on Yarm High Street since 1854, when wine merchant Oliver Strickland and pharmacist John Holt set up in partnership. Bottling and blending once took place in vaults behind the shop, supplying sherry and port to outlets across the Dales by horse and cart. The founder died of pneumonia after trying to save stock during the 1884 Tees flood, and the business passed down through the Holt family, who still own it today. The shop now sells gifts, toys, homeware, and clothing across several rooms, with a café at the rear serving teas, coffees, scones, and light lunches. It also gave rise to the children's textile brand later known as Palava. Opening hours run Monday to Saturday, with the shop closed on Sundays.