by Katie Thompson
When it comes to gift-giving, there’s nothing better than unwrapping a totally unique treasure that you know has been chosen and created with love. At no other time is this truer than Christmas. Especially if, like us, you love an independent.
Then it’s just as well Norwich has so many to choose from! No matter what they’re interested in, friend or family, we’ve got cobbled streets lined with glowing stores brimming with perfect presents. You can even shop in an Art Nouveau arcade!
Whether it’s books or beauty, food, vintage fashion or jewellery, here are our recommendations for shopping Norwich’s independents this Christmas.
Best Independent Christmas Shopping | Christmas Markets | Christmas Gift Guide
Atwin is a beautifully curated lifestyle store full of sustainably minded pieces
It’s a no-brainer to dip into Jarrolds. Their floors of familiar favourites and emerging names mean you can pair classic styles with playful pieces and tie it together with a chic scarf or, well, tie!
In the Lanes (a great spot for the city’s menswear), head to Atwin on Bridewell Alley. This curated womenswear and lifestyle store has a wonderful selection of sustainably designed pieces. Think quilted cotton jackets and 100% wool jumpers and hats (perfect for wintry weather!). Keep an eye out for their own range, too!
No outfit is complete without the perfect pair of shoes, right? On White Lion Street, you’ll find Loake Shoemakers, ideal for supple leather boots (with a pair of gloves thrown in for good measure). Or opt for Bowhill & Elliott on London Street for stylish velvet slippers handcrafted right here in their store! Why not add bespoke embroidery and monograms for the ultimate gift?
While You’re Here: Norwich Lanes boasts a plethora of unique eateries aka the perfect shopping pitstop. You can’t go wrong with The Waffle House!
It’s hard not to be enticed by Dipples’ magical windows at Christmas
Is there anything more special than a bespoke piece of jewellery made with its wearer in mind? We know just the place to find it.
At Sonkai, an independent fine jeweller in the heart of the Royal Arcade, you’ll get a glimpse of the designers at work in their workshop within the store. See them craft exquisite pieces with delicate jewels, some inspired by Norfolk like their elegant Reed collection!
For another sparkling selection of jewellery and watches, try Dipples on Swan Lane. Step into their gorgeous store (once you’ve made it past their eye-catching window display!) and browse at your leisure. This fifth-generation family business is here to help with all your needs.
While You’re Here: Never underestimate a museum shop! At the Sainsbury Centre, discover local creatives like Studio Adorn. And a love of shiny things doesn’t have to mean jewellery. In the Museum of Norwich, find pieces like blown glass baubles to jazz up your Christmas tree!
You can’t go wrong with local Norfolk produce from Jarrolds’ food hall
We think one of the best gifts you can give is a taste of Norwich (quite literally!), so head to Benedicts (on St Benedicts Street) for a fine dining gift voucher. And you can’t go wrong with a hamper. Whether they’re a breakfast-lover or dab hand on the BBQ, visit Chef Patron Richard Bainbridge’s R.Bainbridge Provisions store for tasty products and hampers.
Next on the list? Sir Toby’s Beers! On their Norwich Market stall, explore the many beers they have on offer- their stock is updated weekly! And for Christmas, what better than one of their Craft Beer Advent Calendars?
Or if you’re in Tombland, take a look inside Beer Hatch. This extensive craft beer bottle shop offers a selection of local brews, real ales and ciders. Select your own beers to fit their 3-bottle gift box and add a cool glass to go with it!
Discover more local delights in Jarrolds’ food hall and be wowed by their deli. (Go on, treat yourself to Macarons and More.) There’s indulgent chocolate from Gnaw and Booya Booja, and local tipples aplenty. Get into the Christmas spirit with Bullards, St Giles and The English Distillery!
While You’re Here: People watch while perched at the bar on Sir Toby’s Beers’ stall– with a warming glühwein in hand, of course! On your way home via the A11, pop into The English Distillery’s shop for an extra special bottle.
A gift from Country and Eastern is both beautiful and supports the preservation of traditional Asian crafts
Tucked away off Bethel Street is one of Norwich’s hidden gems: Country & Eastern. This beautiful museum shop is part of The South Asia Collection. This former Victorian skating rink (don’t forget to look up!) is sprinkled with decorative purchases- including intricately woven rugs, jewel-toned bedding and wooden block stamps.
On Lower Goat Lane, Lisa Angel and Elm are ideal for thoughtful stocking fillers and Secret Santa presents. Their seasonal homeware, plant pots and ceramics are great gifts for smaller budgets. And for that extra dopamine hit, try Lazy Lobster in the Royal Arcade for brightly coloured candleholders and witty prints!
While You’re Here: Discover one of the many artisanal Christmas markets at The Forum! And for cat lovers, The Cat House is home to a selection of feline prints to adorn your walls.
