On the popular Route 62, between the hiking trails, 4×4 routes and fishing spots is a vintage shop that does more than vintage items. The Donkey Shed is a store where you’ll find anything from a nifty souvenir to say you were there, to a previously loved couch and even a toaster that still works.

The Donkey Shed Backstory

Donkey Shed was initially a restaurant in Barrydale. Already under strain due to poor tourism numbers, the COVID lockdown effectively killed the restaurant. But a new Donkey Shed was born from that tragedy.

This was after owner Sarah Fitzgerald held a closing down sale of all the restaurant equipment. She discovered that she was good at selling things, and started a vintage second-hand store.

Souvenirs, Vintage Furniture, And Masterpieces At The Donkey Shed

When you visit this establishment you get a store that stocks pre-loved clothing, vintage furniture, and even jams and preserves.

Some of the items you’ll find there include rustic cupboards, vintage couches, and porch furniture. Alternatively, you’ll also find kitchen appliances like toasters and coffee machines, crockery, and even something as old as a hand-operated sewing machine.

Where Do The Items Come From

According to Fitzgerald, the Donkey Shed gets all of its stock from Barrydale residents. But it’s not donated like a charity, instead, it’s sold on consignment, on behalf of the owner, with Fitzgerald taking a commission.

This second-hand model is where the former restaurant finds its true success. There is also a small gift shop section, where local arts, crafts, pottery, and handmade soaps can be found. It’s perfect for tourists looking for a souvenir of their Barrydale stay.

It also collaborates with local businesses. Like in February 2022 when it hosted a clearance sale on behalf of the Karoo Art Hotel. The volume was too much for the Shed, so instead, they hosted the sale at the Belanti Theatre. 

Finding The Donkey Shed

The Donkey Shed is situated at 12 Tennant Street in Barrydale. It operated from 10 am to 3 pm Thursday to Monday, and is close on Tuesday and Wednesday.

While it’s difficult to give prices Fitzgerald says that the items in the store can cost anything from R5 to R12,000.




Contact: The Donkey Shed
Tel: 083 680 2411
Email: donkeyshedbarrydale@gmail.com
Website

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Need to do some shopping before going to your Swellendam accommodation? Hit the SwellenMark Mall for everything you need.

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