The Faraway

About

Tucked away on the third floor of a heritage building in Fan Tan Alley, The Faraway occupies one of Downtown Victoria's most atmospheric locations. The shop manages the uncommon feat of blending two distinct retail experiences—thoughtfully curated books and clothing—into a single, cohesive space that rewards curious visitors willing to venture up the narrow stairs.

The appeal of this shop lies in its restraint and intentionality. Rather than attempting to stock everything, The Faraway focuses on quality selections across both categories. Whether you're browsing the book collection or examining the clothing offerings, there's a sense that each item has been chosen with deliberation. The moderate pricing makes it accessible without feeling like a discount operation, striking a balance that appeals to locals looking for something beyond what chain retailers offer. With a perfect 5.0 rating across 42 reviews, visitors consistently affirm that the curation and atmosphere justify a trip.

The experience of visiting The Faraway is inseparable from its location. Fan Tan Alley itself is worth exploring—historically significant and characterful, it draws people seeking something different from the main commercial strips. The third-floor placement means The Faraway attracts a particular clientele: people who are genuinely interested in discovering independent retail rather than those simply wandering past a street-level storefront. This self-selection contributes to the shop's distinctive atmosphere. The staff clearly understand their neighbourhood and customers well enough to stock inventory that reflects local tastes.

Practically speaking, plan your visit for Thursday through Sunday, when The Faraway opens from noon to 5:00 PM. The shop is closed Monday through Wednesday, so checking the hours before heading over is worthwhile. The location is easily accessible from the downtown core—Fan Tan Alley is a short walk from the Inner Harbour or Government Street. If you're browsing nearby bookstores like Munro's Books or Camas Books and Infoshop, The Faraway makes a natural addition to a literary exploration of the neighbourhood. Books & Shenanigans is also within reasonable distance if you're planning a broader shopping expedition.

Within Victoria's retail landscape, The Faraway occupies a particular niche—it's neither a large independent like Munro's nor a casual novelty shop. Instead, it represents a more selective, carefully considered approach to retail that's become increasingly rare. For locals tired of shopping chains and tourists seeking authentic local retail rather than souvenir shops, The Faraway delivers something genuine. The combination of thoughtful book selection and clothing in a characterful location, backed by strong customer satisfaction, makes it worth seeking out if you value independent retail. Simply reach out at (778) 402-6622 or visit shopthefaraway.com if you have specific questions before visiting.