Tucked just behind the main high street, the former industrial estate has changed drastically over time to become a vibrant hub of vintage dealers, independent traders and art studios. The history of the trading estate reaches back to the 1800s and it played a key part in west Dorset’s net and rope making industry. Aerial view: Credit: Bridport Museum(Image: )However, its evolution into a trading estate is largely credited to the Hayward family who purchased the site and set up units for small and developing businesses. Norman Hayward Senior came to Bridport with his two sons, Clive and Norman Junior to take on the estate. There are also many antiques stores, collectibles, retro and vintage shops that make St Michael’s Trading Estate such a vibrant hub.