If there’s one thing Norwich does particularly well, it’s independent shopping. Our locals know a thing or two about designer clothing and homeware, the best in books, toys and especially food, brought to you by businesses you’ll only find in Norwich.
Looking for Christmas markets? Check out our round-up here. And read up on Christmas events in 2022 here.
Macarons & More
Stocking stuffers, Christmas party fare, afternoon snacks – there’s not much the goodies at speciality dessert shop Macarons & More aren’t perfect for. The shop was founded by MasterChef alum Tim Kinnaird and is where you can find almost-too-pretty-to-eat French macarons, brownies, chocolates and more.
Elm
Beautiful, design-led homeware and gifts line the shelves in Elm, an effortlessly cool shop for all of life’s little extras. It’s the spot to grab an unusual gift for a friend, a hand-painted plant pot to brighten up your office Secret Santa’s desk, or a sweet Christmas candle for your home.
Photo: Elm, Norwich
The Book Hive
Norwich’s leading independent bookshop The Book Hive is one unlike any other. It’s specifically designed not to be like traditional bookshops, emphasising book design. It’s a top spot to pick up an unusual read for even the most avid reader and is also the original home of Galley Beggar Press, an indie publishing house gaining national attention for its publication of game-changing books.
Photo: The Book Hive, Norwich
Strangers Coffee Roaster
Not just a hangout for enjoying perfectly-brewed coffees and homemade cakes, Strangers is also home to its very own Coffee Roaster. Head to their online store, where you can pick up a pack of original Strangers beans for Christmas morning—or, let’s be honest, any other time of day—as well as quirky clothing and store gift vouchers for your friends and family.
Photo: Strangers Coffee
Working Title
It’s a little hard to pin down what indie menswear shop Working Title does best, mostly because it does so much! It boasts goods for the “distinguished gentlemen,” including stylish clothes and accessories, bags, toiletries, vintage pieces and artwork. You’ll even find unique homeware and designer face masks.
Bread Source
We love Bread Source not only for its quite-frankly-amazing loaves of bread and pastries but its locally-sourced goodies as well. Its online store is packed with foodie stocking stuffers, including Dotti chocolate and chocolate bark made locally and independently, as well as Spanish and Norfolk-made wine, homemade preserves and accessories for the budding bread baker.
Photo: Bread Source
Philip Browne
A true staple of Norwich, Philip Browne has been leading the way in men’s fashion for years. The store is famed for experimenting with up-and-coming designers, having famously sold the first collections of Alexander McQueen, Helmut Lang, Jean Paul Gaultier and John Galliano in the 80s and 90s. As well as stocking well-known brands such as Moncler and Comme Des Garcons, Philip Browne is also home to unique and hard to find collections from the likes of Moschino, Raf Simons, and Neil Barrett.
Photo: Philip Browne
Flicka
A relatively new addition to the Norwich landscape, Flicka is an environmentally-friendly, family-run business that offers modern Scandinavian-inspired gifts for babies and toddlers. This popular boutique boasts sustainable, organically-sourced products ranging from baby blankets and rompers to cuddly toys, rockers, and even interior design for playrooms and baby nurseries! Delivery is also only £1 on all orders – what’s not to like!
Flika, Norwich
