About us

Siesta was started in 1983 by Chris and Les Harper with a market stall selling handicrafts from Mexico and Guatemala (hence the name!).

Since then we have grown considerably and we now import from countries all over the world, specialising in ethnic musical instruments. From our small beginning we have expanded so that we now have a retail outlet in Canterbury and a busy wholesale business supplying goods throughout the UK and Europe.

Our shop is located in the heart of Canterbury in Kent, barely 100 metres from the world famous cathedral. We have a good local reputation as a shop where you can get a present for anyone and in this day and age of anodyne, clone town high streets, have a vibrant, colourful presence, which we feel strongly adds to the character of the city. We employ a staff of eight, though this may vary at busy periods. Our shop stocks many other Fair Trade items as well as our own range - please drop in if you're in the area - you never know what will take your fancy!

Our warehouse is located just outside the city walls, a short bike ride from our shop. We currently also employ a staff of eight at the warehouse.

Like scouts we are starting to collect Badges