Tis the season to be jolly – and what better way to spread the holiday cheer than by supporting your local independent stores when doing your Christmas shopping this year? Ditch the crowded shopping centres and embrace the charm of unique, one-of-a-kind finds that you’ll only get in Calderdale!
We know how tricky Christmas shopping can be, so we’ve hand picked some local independent stores where you’ll hopefully find that really special gift. Read on to find out more…
For your favourite foodie…
Czerwik Fine Wine & Cheeses are a family business in Brighouse dedicated to providing fresh quality food and the very finest range of wines, whisky, port, hampers, cheeses, chutneys, pickles and more. Top tip – check out their Brighouse basket – a hamper combining classic and modern flavours that represent the spirit of the town.
Hop In is a craft beer and cider store in Halifax Borough market – hop on over and pick up your quality beers and ciders from local, UK and around the world. You can even sit in and enjoy an afternoon tipple…just what you need after a long day’s Christmas shopping!
For the outdoor lover in your life…
Got an outdoor enthusiast in your life? Get yourself to BAC Outdoor Leisure – an independent ski/outdoor equipment shop in Elland. They’ve shared their top must have products for this season, which includes the Nebo Newton 1000 Lumas AA Handheld torch – perfect for outdoor adventures, emergencies or everyday tasks.
For your godchildren/actual children/niece/nephew/insert small relative here
Do you know a mini DC or Marvel fan? How about looking for a gift for them in Hebden Bridge’s 2 Tone Comics, which stocks new American comic books, statues, posters, Tshirts and original art? Lot of new issues are being released in the lead up to Christmas…drop in on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday to find out more.
Perhaps you know a gamer who’d love a chance to meet other like-minded friends? How about getting them a voucher to the Geek Retreat – a retailer, gaming café and events hub rolled into one!
For the bookworm…
Isn’t it just the perfect time of year to curl up and read a book by the fire? The Book Corner in the Piece Hall has a wide range of books for you to pick from when buying a gift for that bookworm in your life…and staff on hand to help you choose.
For greener gifts…
HebTroCo sells high quality clothing made to last. They don’t do Christmas jumpers, but their 100% wool, synthetic-free jumpers sure do make good Christmas presents. They care about the environment to – all items are shipped to the Post Office by electric cargo bike, and they support ‘Slow the Flow’ and other local environmental initiatives.
As well as a myriad of delicious vegan goods, Tod Almighty offer ethical, eco-friendly household gifts that would make great stocking fillers!
For local producers…
New on the scene in Elland is Curioddity – a one of a kind gift shop working with local makers to offer unique and interesting products that you wouldn’t typically see on the high street. You’ll find local authors and children’s books, upcycled fashion, handmade jewellery, beautiful Christmas decorations and much more…
For the person that has everything…
What do you buy the person who has everything….well, experiences of course!
How about a voucher from Moonfull, a social enterprise in Hebden Bridge that run foraging and natural winemaking workshops. You’ll learn about the history of wine, get the chance to taste a selection of natural wines, and make your own using their organic Moonfull Winemaking Kit. If that wasn’t enough, 50% of Moonfull’s profits are donated to green initiatives in the UK!
Just down the road in Todmorden, Creative with Nature run willow weaving courses and various other crafting courses, such as Christmas Wreath making, leather and felt slipper making and eco beauty product making! They are the only willow weaving shop on the high street in the UK, so pop in, book a course, and enjoy a drink at their ground floor Coffee House while you’re at it!
Happy Shopping, and a Happy Christmas to everyone in Calderdale.