Afterwards you can browse the bric-a-brac, furniture or clothing stores, all at bargain prices. Everything in the shops is recycled, so you can feel exceptionally pleased with yourself, being green, saving money, and supporting their work with the homeless. If you want to feel even more smug, why not cycle there? Admittedly this would restrict the possibilities for buying furniture, but the bric-a-brac shop should provide something to fit in a rucksack.
You can read more about EVC on their website http://www.emmausvillagecarlton.org.uk/weeblylink_new_window
and about the UK wide Emmaus organisation at http://www.emmaus.org.uk/weeblylink_new_window
For an alternative to cycling that is slightly less tiring, visit EVC with a group of friends on your classic motorbikes, like we did last week. A lot less emissions than using four wheels, and much easier if you're getting on a bit.