Francis Iles is really a combination of two shops…read more The first one is a gallery, on the ground floor there are things like gift wrap, humorous birthday cards, photo frames and albums, notebooks, organisers and stationery. From the moment you start walking up the stairs to the first floor, the walls are covered in paintings of all styles, sizes and themes. They also frequently hold exhibitions, such as portrayals of Rochester or specifically from local artists. You can count on a glass of champagne and an urge to buy a vastly overpriced canvas. The second shop is an art supplies shop, there are also paintings and Dali-style clocks in the window. Inside, you can buy paper, paints, an easel, a canvas and many other things. Students get discount but even so I can't really imagine many of them shopping there - budget this ain't. It all seems to be good quality though and the staff are happy to help. Expect the same atmosphere as a library - you'll feel compelled to talk in a whisper.

This is a nice wee craft shop, has something for everyone - paint, brushes, canvas, diff size and…read morecolour papers and cards, cardmaking, stamping, fimo, lots and lots. kids crafty boxes too like hama beads. prices are fairly reasonable. i bought fimo and it was the same price there as i have seen it in other places and on the net. If things are priced higher, it's probably cos its a little non-chain high street shop fighting the battle against the tescos and walmarts trying to take over the world!! Lovely shop - loads of things in it - you probably wont leave without buying something! Nice staff, they've always been pleasant and helpful when ive been in. Open most days apart from sunday, but best to check their website xx

it was great once it was there but alas it's gone now.finishedkaput.read more