Published on 1st February 2025

What is Natty Noo?

Natty Noo is a shop in Horsham’s Carfax that sells books, arts and crafts, T-shirts and a selection of gifts and accessories. These are all written, crafted or designed by local creatives and artisans who rent shelf space, giving them a chance to sell their wares in a central location. The shop opened last March and is named after owner Natasha Murray, known as Natty.

Does Natty sell her own items?

She is a keen writer and it has been her dream to run a bookshop and sell her novels. Natty said: ‘I travelled the world, hoping to find a place that I connected with and could set up my own business. I went to Africa, America, Canada and the Caribbean, yet it was in my home town that I found what I was looking for. I was walking through the Carfax and saw Shakeaway had closed. I immediately knew it was the right location.’

What kind of books does Natty write?

Initially, she wrote science fiction for children, but recent books have been murder mysteries. Natasha wrote four books in her Waterfall Way series during the pandemic, with stories following the adventures of Julia Bridgewater and Seth Hearn, who come from rival Sussex farming families but fall in love. She has published 14 books and organises the UK Southern Book Show, a free event which gives authors the chance to discuss their books, give readings and learn more about publishing.

Are other books sold at Natty Noo?

A significant section of the shop is devoted solely to books, with both published and self-published authors. These include Robin Driscoll, best known for writing TV comedy Mr. Bean. The shop also gives authors the opportunity to launch new material, with Sue Winstead, Lizzie Jarrett, Helen Matthews, Steve Sheppard and Jane H. Wood among those holding book signings in recent months. Natasha said: ‘Lots of authors ask me if I can stock their books, as it’s hard to find outlets when you self-publish. I help some authors edit their manuscripts and advise them on publishing on Amazon too.’ 

But it’s more than just books, right?

The shelves of Natty Noo are full of products by small, independent businesses. These include hand-made ceramics by Sarah Russell, who runs Pots & Pansies in Storrington, and crocheted accessories by Nikki Bristo at MoJo Craft Creations. Klara offers loose leaf tea and other natural and holistic products, while Carole’s Glass sells stained-glass decorations. Other items include crocheted crafts by AnyBobs, decoupage by Impala Crafts, hand-made jewellery by Gazcoo Jewels, greetings cards by Belinda Walters, jewellery and accessories by AB Crafts by Alison, scarves by Helen Elliott’s World of Feathers, a range of items featuring the seagull paintings of Horsham artist Cherry Parsons, and organic skin and haircare by Twang-Love Nature. Another unique business is Tiggie’s Tiny Toes Dolls, which makes specialist dolls for children with disabilities. Natasha said: ‘Businesses appreciate the chance to rent space or sell on a commission basis, without the costs involved in running a market stall.’

You mentioned T-shirts...

Natty Noo has an area that can be used as a studio for designing clothes. Customers can create their own design and have them printed on T-shirts, sweatshirts, mugs and bags. The shop also sells T-shirts by Sussex-based Femi Creatives, whose designs are often inspired by orishas (deities) of the West African region of Yoruba. Femi has also created the ‘Horsham-ite’ range.   

I hear there are other businesses based at Natty Noo?

As you’ll see in the article on p41, Alex Reid runs Horsham Records upstairs. On the level above Alex is a healing room used for homeopathy, crystal therapy, sound baths, reiki and meditation. This room is hired out by various practitioners, one of whom is Johanna Ellis, who runs Angelrose Holistic Centre. Jo also runs The Crystal Cave in the basement of Natty Noo, next to a studio that is home to artwork by the likes of Frank Delaney and Gill Jones, as well as photographer Paul Vincent. 

What is The Crystal Cave? 

 Jo sells semi-precious stones, crystals and minerals, as well as smaller crystals and jewellery by son Francis, who runs his own business, Rock On. Many customers buy semi-precious stones as ornaments, drawn to their natural beauty, and they are particularly popular with children. Jo said: ‘Children love browsing through the stones and minerals and some of them are incredibly knowledgeable, telling me things I didn’t even know! I still attend local markets, but I often have more success at school fetes, as children love spending their pocket money on amethyst, rose quartz and other stones.’ 

Are crystals also used for holistic therapies?

Some believe that semi-precious stones and crystals have healing qualities. Jo’s range includes blue lace agate, citrine, rose quartz, moonstone, fluorite, tiger’s eye, pyrite, selenite, lapis lazuli and jade, with the price of each piece dependent on its size and rarity. Jo explains: ‘They are all used for holistic treatments and each has its benefits. One of the most popular is obsidian, a dark crystal that is good for grounding, so it helps you feel secure. Tiger’s eye is a protection stone that promotes positivity, while rose quartz focuses on emotion, reminding you of your self-worth and value. When you delve deeper into crystal healing, there are many ways that their healing powers can be interpreted. However, some of these beliefs have been passed down through the generations for centuries.’

What does the future hold for the shop?

Jo has also run the Horsham Spiritual and Healing Centre alongside mum Christine for 21 years. The group currently meets at the Normandy Centre in Denne Road. However, Jo would like to create a spiritual and holistic hub in the town offering treatments, readings and workshops in the town centre. 

And what of the shop?

Natasha would like to offer more variety and welcomes new enquiries from people with interesting products. She said. ‘I want to expand so that people will find something new every time they visit. Also, I would love to grow the bookshop so that Natty Noo is not only a hub for local authors, but also a place where avid readers of all ages can discover new stories.’

WORDS: Ben Morris / PHOTOS: Alan Wright

Further Information: Visit: 44B Carfax, Horsham, RH12 1AQ