An indie guide to Christmas shopping in Bristol
Are you looking for something one-off to buy your nearest and dearest this Christmas?
Here is our round-up of the best independent traders in Bristol, so you can shop while supporting local businesses.
Otomí
Tucked away in Clifton Arcade, Otomí is a haven for food lovers. They import all their products from Mexico, from hot sauce to wrestling masks and the finest tequila.
- Location: 7 Clifton Arcade, Boyces Avenue BS8 4AA
Experience Mexico in Clifton. Image courtesy of Otomi.
Howkapow
Based in Bristol, the Howkapow website has everything you could possibly ever want for unique and quirky gifts. From cactus vases, to beautifully crafted jewellery, you’re sure to find something for the home and fashion-conscious.
Howkapow is the best place for off-beat gifts. Image courtesy of Howkapow, edited by Summer Brooks.
Bristol Cider Shop
Being Bristol’s only specialist cider and perry shop, it would be silly to go anywhere else for the West Country’s favourite drink of choice.
You can buy the cider enthusiast a voucher, or go all out and get them the Ultimate Cider Gift Hamper which includes 12 mixed bottles of the finest cider.
- Location: 7 Christmas Steps, BS1 5BS
Sample the finest ciders. License: Creative Commons
Two Day Coffee Roasters
With fresh beans roasted daily, you’ll be sure to please all coffee lovers with Two Day’s selection of blends.
- Location: 26 Union St, BS1 2DP
Freshly ground coffee makes for a perfect gift. License: Creative Commons
Rise
Unsure what to get the music lover in your life? How about their favourite album on vinyl, their favourite book or maybe a cult classic.
The staff at Rise are very knowledgeable, so even if not you’re not sure what you’re looking for, they’ll be able to point you in the right direction.
- Location: 70 Queens Road, BS8 1QU
Vinyl, books and CDs galore at Rise. License: Creative Commons
Jamaica Street Artists’ Christmas Party
For one weekend, the artists at the infamous Jamaica Street studios will open their doors for a Christmas Party – a chance to buy a piece of art from paintings and prints to smaller gifts and cards.
There will be mulled wine and mince pies to enjoy whilst you browse for a personal gift.
- Location: 37-39 Jamaica St, BS2 8JP
Treat someone to art this Christmas. Image courtesy of Jamaica Street Studios.
Arnolfini Bookshop
At the home of one of Europe’s leading centres for art is the Arnolfini bookshop, where you’ll find a great selection of specialist books. From art to film and design, you’re bound to find something special for the art-enthusiast.
- Location: 16 Narrow Quay, BS1 4QA
The bookshop at Arnolfini stocks over 100 magazines on art and culture. License: Creative Commons.