Wondering where to go Christmas shopping? Find the perfect Christmas gift in one of these great independent shops located in Swindon, Bath, and beyond.
Christmas shopping can be rather hectic, with flocks of people scavenging around the same household retail chains.
However, you can swap the hustle and bustle for a truly unique experience when you choose to do your Christmas shopping at a local independent shop.
For these businesses, it’s not just about making a quick buck in exchange for poorly made goods.
When you walk through the door, you’ll be pleasantly greeted and will always have someone there to help you if required. Independent shops will only sell goods from companies who value quality too.
So, if you want to find a unique, premium gift and enjoy a personal experience, visit these independent shops in the UK this Christmas.
Christmas shopping for her
66 Devices Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4BD
Ideal for: reloved women’s clothes and accessories
Following its great online success, the owner Ellen Wray recently opened up the first Kapada Vintage store in Old Town, Swindon.
This boutique shop sells a collection of stunning handpicked vintage clothing and accessories for women. From shirts and jumpers to coats and necklaces, there’s something for everyone.
The beauty of this place is that each item comes with its own story having been carefully sourced from thrift stores and wardrobes from all around the world. So, when you go Christmas shopping at Kapada Vintage, you’ll find reloved gifts that help the environment, instead of new generic pieces that continue to the fast fashion epidemic.
You can even find the Kapada Vintage range on ASOS – including some men’s clothing too.
Christmas shopping for someone who has everything
16 Narrow Quay, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 4QA
Ideal for: unique independent books for bookworms
Arnolfini is a specialist, independent art bookshop.
You’ll find over 100 magazines, periodicals on art, design, literature and film, postcards, posters and other books on contemporary art and culture.
It’s the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping if you’re trying to buy for a bookworm who ‘supposedly’ has every title. You won’t find half of this independent shop’s stock in your standard high street equivalent.
You can even celebrate after in one of the many fantastic eateries and bars along Bristol’s Harbourside.
Christmas shopping for kids
68 Chatsworth Road, London, E5
Ideal for: parents and relatives who want to claim their Christmas present was the catalyst of a child genius
One of the best independent shops for kids in the UK is this little gem located in Hackney, east London. Started three years ago, it’s packed with carefully selected and affordable toys for children of all ages.
What makes this independent toy shop so special is its emphasis on creativity. You won’t find poorly manufactured toys here. Just quality ones that encourage innovation, creative thinking and early childhood development (ECD).
Who said learning can’t be fun, eh?!
Christmas shopping for pissheads
24 Colquitt Street, Liverpool, L1 4DE
Ideal for: 99% of the UK who love to get pissed up on Christmas
Who doesn’t love a cheeky sherbet on Christmas day? With this independent shop, you’ll be able to buy the ideal gift and get merry while you’re at it!
Whisky Business is operated by the owners of the popular cocktail bar, Berry & Rye, so they know a thing or two about having a good time.
Inside the independent shop, you’ll find a selection of the world’s finest and most unique spirits – which you can sample before buying.
Each bottle also includes a handwritten tasting note, making the experience extra personal. (Just be sure to leave your car at home!)