It’s hard to find the perfect present online. We’ve all ordered something suspiciously cheap, only for it to arrive in miniature, not at all like the picture, or three weeks late. There’s nothing like buying a present in person; finding a unique gift that will delight the recipient and really make their day. Whether you’re buying a birthday present, an anniversary gift, planning ahead to Christmas, or buying something just because, we’ve made our pick of the best places to pop into, featuring the usual and the unexpected! Remember, you can always ask for advice too – the shop attendants will have all the best recommendations, so if you’re struggling to find something spot-on, why not take advantage of all their knowledge!
Jarrold
Norwich’s oldest department store, Jarrold is full to the brim of everything you could want. From glossy make-up counters, to a brilliant toy department on the top floor, you could probably do all your shopping in one go! There is so much to choose from – head downstairs to buy locally sourced deli treats, or hit the kitchen department to buy that practical present that they’ll want and need.
Photo: Jarrold Deli
Elm
There are plenty of gorgeous independent shops on Lower Goat Lane, and we always recommend popping into Elm. With boutique homeware, plenty of plants, and unique handmade gifts you won’t find anywhere else, it’s the place to shop for that particular person.
Book Hive
You can’t go wrong with books. There’s something for everybody, plus they’re easy to wrap! The Book Hive is one of Norwich’s many bookshops, and has a huge range, from children’s books to cookery titles. The Book Hive also offers a postal subscription package, if you wanted to go all out for a literary gift a month!
Photo: The Book Hive
Wilkinson’s of Norwich
Ooh, what could be better than a nice cup of tea? Wilkinson’s have been a fixture in Norwich for almost 50 years, providing delicious brews of tea and coffee. You’ll discover a cornucopia of flavours in this cosy shop, from global brews to herbal cuppas.
The Bear Shop
A whole, entire shop, filled with teddy bears, on the picturesque Elm Hill. It’s like a storybook come true. The Bear Shop is the place to go for a traditional children’s stuffed toy – the sort that will become a firm favourite, featured in every bedtime for years to come.
Photo: The Bear Shop
Macarons & More
Created by Masterchef finalist Tim Kinnaird, Macarons & More is the place to go for impeccable patisseries. Buy a gorgeous box of macarons or indulgent brownies for melt-in-your-mouth delectable sweets. Or why not buy them a class on how to make their own? That way you can volunteer as tester for all their creations!
Sonkai
Utterly unique jewellery handcrafted by artisans. Head to Sonkai for a bespoke piece of gorgeous metalwork, from earrings to rings, or get a much loved piece refurbished and refreshed – all the sentimental value with a contemporary twist. With options for both men and women, you can splash out, or choose something more modest for budget and taste!
Photo: Sonkai
Norfolk Yarn
For the crafty type, or for someone who just loves a hobby, we recommend Norfolk Yarn. They have a huge collection of wool, in every colour imaginable, as well as plenty of other crafting kits. Norfolk Yarn also offers courses, for those who want to hone their skills or just learn something new.
Langleys
Toys for everybody! Take a trip down the gorgeous Art Deco-styled Royal Arcade to find a toyshop that’s bursting at the seams. Langley’s has been providing Norwich’s children with the best toys since 1883, and have all the playground must-haves, as well as traditional toys. From pocket-money treats to big buys, you’ll be able to find something amazing for the little ones in your life.
Norwich Art Shop
This artist collective shop window features work from more than 20 different creators. Run by the artists, for the public, there’s plenty of artwork to choose from, including landscapes, contemporary work, sculptural pieces and more! Not only will you be able to support independent artists directly by shopping here, but you’ll find something completely unique to gift!
Thorns DIY
Think outside the box – Thorns is like a tardis – filled with infinite possibilities. From gardening gifts to items for the keen DIYer to kitchen essentials, there are plenty of gifts for those who say they don’t want anything at all. Plus you’ll definitely pick up that spare part you’ve been meaning to get for ages.
