When it comes to Christmas, there’s always a little last-minute shopping to do. But don’t worry – it doesn’t have to be a stressful rush! If you’re looking for inspiration on where to find unique gifts, check out our recommendations to help you find that perfect present this festive season.
Looking for Christmas markets? Check out our blog post here.Or read our Christmas events round-up here.
The Bear Shop, Elm Hill
Not just a great spot for an Instagram snap, The Bear Shop has teddy bears for all ages. Whether you want to get a bear for a special occasion (perhaps a child’s first Christmas?), or you’re looking for something for an avid collector, you’ll find what you need here. Plus, you can buy bears online too!
Sonkai, The Royal Arcade
If you really want to show someone you love them this Christmas, Sonkai is a must-visit. With stunning handmade necklaces, rings, bracelets and more – you’ll be wowed by the beautiful creations on offer. And if you’re planning a Christmas proposal – look no further for a unique ring that they will love!
Country & Eastern, Bethel Street
For something really special and unique, you’ll want to spend some time at Country & Eastern. This gorgeous museum shop for the South Asia Collection, housed in a Grade I listed Victorian skating rink, is the perfect place to escape to. As well as shopping beautiful fabrics, jewellery and more, you’ll be able to take in the fascinating items on display in the museum.
Lisa Angel, Lower Goat Lane & Chantry Place
For delicate and pretty jewellery, homeware and accessories, pop into Lisa Angel. There’s a range of gifts available, from stocking fillers to bespoke jewellery that’s sure to give the ‘wow factor’. And we may be biased, but we love their range of illustrated cards, bags and more featuring Norwich!
Jarrold, London Street
As Norwich’s only independent department store, Jarrold is a must at Christmas. With several floors filled with everything from books, fashion and homeware, to toys, food and beauty – you’ll find the perfect present here whoever you are buying for. We love heading down to the deli, where there’s a wide choice of food and drink made by local Norwich and Norfolk businesses. Plus, don’t forget to check out their pop-up, Store Folk, showcasing the best locally made products from independent retailers.
National Centre for Writing
On a budget this Christmas but still want to give a special gift? If you know someone who is a keen writer, or wants to learn something new, why not enroll them in a free online writing course with the National Centre for Writing? There are different courses to choose from, from publishing advice to world building. And if you are able to splash out a bit, there’s also longer paid-for courses, some even lasting six months!
Norfolk and Norwich Festival
Do you know someone who loves Norwich and its thriving cultural scene? Why not get them ‘Festival for a Fine City’. This new book celebrates the Norfolk and Norwich Festival’s 250th year, written by researcher Rob Mitchell. Beginning with its origins in 1772 as a cathedral service to fundraise for a new hospital, before blossoming into an internationally renowned triennial music festival, Mitchell traces the story of Norfolk & Norwich Festival’s development.
Benedicts, St Benedicts Street
Looking for a gift for the foodie in your life? Why not grab a gift voucher for one of Norwich’s finest restaurants? You can get vouchers from £20 – £300 in value, which can be put towards a delicious evening out enjoying treats such as herb crusted Scottish halibut and guinea fowl with jura wine jus.
Paul Dickson Tours
If you’re looking to treat a history buff, a lover of Norwich, or someone new to the city, why not get a gift voucher for a Paul Dickson tour? With options ranging from ‘Shardlake’s Norwich’ based on the best-selling book series, to ‘Norwich: An Introduction’, you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
Bowling House, Dereham Road
Buying for the adventurer in your life, someone who loves a bit of bowling, or a dad or brother who can be a bit tricky to buy for? Bowling House could be the answer. As well as gift vouchers which they can use for bowling, food, cocktails or karaoke, you can also buy them a yearly membership! They will get unlimited bowling between 4pm – 5pm Monday – Thursday, 6 additional games of bowling, one hour of karaoke booth hire, 20% off bowling and karaoke, 10% off food and drinks, and other monthly offers to, for only £35!
Norwich Market, Market Place
Norwich Market is the best place to go to get some gift inspiration. You’ll find vintage fashion at stalls like Taxi Vintage and Lovering & Co, phenomenal wine from some of the best independent vintners at Substrata Wines, fantastic Norfolk produce at the Walsingham Farms Shop, and a unique range of houseplants and pots at Botanical.
Book Hive, London Street
If you want to share something special with someone this Christmas, why not treat them to a new book? Whether you want to get them the sequel to something they loved, a beautiful copy of their favourite book, or perhaps you want to share with them the book you loved the most this year, you’ll find everything you need at Book Hive.
