September Street Smarts: A quickie guide to a few shops in Hampton Falls

Amid the horse farms and orchards of this still-rural town, there is some serious shopping.

1. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a time machine at the Antiques at Hampton Falls store at 82 Lafayette Rd., next to the Village Green. With three floors full of antiques from clothing and toys to books and cooking utensils, customers are sure to find something unique. Even if you’re not looking to buy, it’s a blast to explore all the treasures that have been brought in by dealers and the public. Pick up some antique glass or silver dinnerware to add a touch of elegance to your next party. (603) 926-1971

2. For a unique handmade gift for a friend (or just for yourself), head down the street to Fiddlesticks at 76 Lafayette Rd. Inside this charming converted barn, customers will find a large selection of pieces made by local artisans. Owner Diane and her husband create custom cabinets; they specialize in the primitive and antique style. With everything from home fragrances to unique hand-painted signs, this shop is one-of-a-kind. (603) 926-2293

3. Directly across from the Village Green in Hampton Falls, you’ll find The Harbor Lights in the Shoppers Village on Lafayette Road, which offers one of the largest selections of lighting options on the Seacoast. Walk inside and find a spectacular array of lamps and chandeliers. The unique home-like setting allows customers to envision what each lighting option might look like in their house. Browse indoor and outdoor lights in styles ranging from contemporary and modern to antique and country. www.harbor-lights.com (603) 926-8500

4. At 87 Lafayette Rd. in the Shoppers Village, explore Seacoast Oriental Rug, which offers a vast selection of unique, handmade rugs from India, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran and Armenia. Quality is the main priority here which shows in the beauty and craftsmanship of each rug. Almost all the rugs in the store are one of a kind but customers can place orders for custom rugs as well. Since they are handmade though, some rugs can take months or years to complete. www.seacoastorientalrug.com (603) 929-9230

5. It’s a family affair at You’re Invited, a charming shop also in the Shoppers Village. Sisters Kathleen and Clare opened the store more than 18 years ago and the business continues to expand. From elegant serving utensils to whimsical H & K Steel Sculptures filled with candy, this store will make you glad you took the extra time to discover this hidden gem. Upstairs is Joyce Jordan Interiors where interior designer Joyce Jordan has her business. (603) 926-1500

6. Refuel at the Hampton Falls Village Market at 82 Lafayette Rd., which offers sandwiches at their full deli or just grab a snack or a cold drink. The market stocks local products like Farmhouse lotions and Smuttynose beers, and customers can find unusual and hard to find beers as well. Now in its 14th year, the market is a local favorite at lunchtime. Customers can also help by making a donation towards the Pan-Mass Challenge, a two-day bike ride manager George Privé participates in, which raises money for The Jimmy Fund. (603) 926-5840