While we like to encourage shopping independently during ‘normal’ times, after the effects of the pandemic on small businesses supporting them has become more important than ever before. So, if you’re looking to shop local, here’s our guide to some of the best independent shops based in and around Bristol to get that special Christmas gift for someone. From handcrafted pottery to fantastic artwork, there’s something to show your appreciation and love this Christmas.
1. The Mall Deli
The Mall Deli is much-loved here in Bristol for its selection of cheeses, as well as their accompaniments. For those who love to try their own hand at cooking, this independent Bristol deli is one of the perfect shops to pick up a few treats. From hampers packed with goodies from local businesses, to specialist ingredients that you won’t find in Tesco – the Mall Deli has everything you need to nail a top cheese board at home, with great crackers and chutneys to accompany it too, as well as divine freshly-baked quiches. They even have some great local cheese including Bath Soft Cheese, Colston Bassett Stilton and Somerset Brie.
The Mall, Clifton, BS8 4DR
2. Wiper and True
Wiper and True offers an eclectic mix of brews, giving beer lovers the opportunity the try out something a little different to your usual supermarket offering. Their collection offers amazing and unique flavours such as barrel-aged plum pudding stout, Bristol crush pale ale and their classic Kaleidoscope pale ale. Check them out at their brewery, kiosk or shop online here.
2-8 York Street, BS2 9XT
3. Wild Leaf
Got a plant enthusiast to thank? Glass House not only has hundreds of beautiful plants, but it’s a lovely shopping experience, too, thanks to its beautiful and jungle-like décor. Pick up gorgeous potted plants, pampas grasses and lovely pots. You’ll be spoiled for choice. Shop online or visit them in store.
63A Overton Road, BS6 5AG.
4. Pinkmans
Baked goods make for a really thoughtful gift for anyone, and if there’s one local baker nailing it at the moment – it’s Pinkmans. Based in Bristol, with an online store and shop on Park Street, the independent bakery creates awesome sourdough doughnuts, brownies, pastries and more – with some insane flavours such as chocolate pecan brownie and honeycomb mousse doughnuts, all provided in cute delivery boxes which are perfect for Christmas. Orders yours here.
85 Park Street, BS1 5PJ
5. BAM Store
Known for their quirky homeware and gifts, BAM has a little something to suit all budgets. This Christmas, the uber-cool shop has some incredible stock – including cards, gifts and homeware on their online shop. As well as some fab gift boxes, they also sell jewellery, clothing, games and stationary. BAM also have a Made In Bristol range so if you’re looking to support Bristol businesses even further then you can choose from art, books, jewellery and cards created by Bristolians.
104-108 Belle Vue Road, BS5 6BX
6. Potters
A creative shop on Perry Road offering its very own physical and online shop – Potters is the perfect hub for gifts. From gorgeous coffee cups and bowls, to vases and sculptures, there’s plenty to choose from – and your purchase is sure to put a smile on the face of a small business. They also have guest potters featured each month for you to discover new and exciting designs to purchase or be inspired from. Shop here.
9 Perry Road, BS1 5BQ
7. Blaze
For all things Bristol but in art form, there’s Blaze. If you’re buying for someone looking to spruce up their space and show off their love for the city in their home, then these beautiful works of art by local Bristol artists and makers might be just what they need. Choose from prints, plant pot hangings, cards, trinket dishes and more. Shop all the designs and creations here.
84 Colston Street, BS1 5BB
8. Mon Pote
A one-stop shop for homeware, jewellery and gorgeous stationary – Mon Pote stocks gorgeous décor pieces that would be extra special as a gift for a loved one. Choose from gorgeous kitchenware and stunning vases, or browse through their cute selection of storage baskets, candles and plant pots. Check them out here, or visit the shop.
217a North Street, BS3 1JJ
9. Blind Owl Coffee Co
Lockdown has caused a growth in the number of coffee aficionados as more people have purchased coffee machines to brew their own at home. If you’re buying for a caffeine lover, then head to one of the independent Bristol coffee roasters and shops that is Blind Owl Coffee Co. Whether they want to grind their own beans or just want ready-ground coffee to put into a cafetière then you’ll find a vast selection of these at Blind Owl Coffee Co, ranging in notes, origins and roasts. You can also buy brewing equipment and even a subscription to receive their coffee regularly in the post. Take a look at their online shop here.
32 Feeder Road, BS2 0SE
10. I am acrylic
Looking to buy something for a loved one who loves wearing jewellery? I am acrylic has plenty of funky designs to choose from, mainly made with acrylic to form intricate shapes and designs. Classic or quirky, minimal or maximal, there’s likely to be something that will suit their style. This jewellery brand is fun and vibrant and we could sure do with some of that going into the new year. Shop their jewellery here.
7 Christmas Steps, BS1 5BS
11. The Ottowin Shop
Want a gift to make the most stylish person in your life happy? The Ottowin Shop on Gloucester Road offers great staple pieces for your wardrobe which are both stylish, ethical and unlikely to go out of fashion quickly. Whether they’re into the latest styles or love accessories, there are plenty of choices that don’t involve heading to the usual high street stores.
56 Gloucester Road, BS7 8BH
12. Prior
For all the eco-warriors in Bristol, there’s Prior. This eco-conscious hop has everything you could possibly need to lead a more eco-friendly, sustainable lifestyle. From jewellery to mugs, as well as face coverings, there are loads of products either locally-sourced or plastic free, or both, so they can help reduce their carbon footprint this year. Plus, you’ll be making a loved one’s day, doing your bit to save the planet and help these independent shops in Bristol.
58 West Street, St Philip’s, BS2 0BL
13. Zara’s Chocolates
Zara’s Chocolates creates beautiful artisan chocolate that can be ordered online or selected in store. The chocolates come in a range of flavours and designs, and would be a beautiful surprise. Choose from classic flavours such as milk, white and dark chocolate or opt for something a little more unusual such as their sea salt praline chocolate or limited edition flavours of gingerbread or blackberry, apple and walnut crumble. They also have chocolates which are free from dairy, gluten and alcohol. Shop here.
200 North Street, Southville, BS3 1JF