Christmas shopping can either be one of the most stressful parts of the holiday season, or a fun day out to snag some cool gifts for your loved ones.
Having a good list of shops to visit can help take the pain out of the process, so Brig is here to help!
Stirling has some fantastic places to get everything you need for everyone this Christmas, and shopping local is a fantastic way to be more sustainable this year.
Contempo
Contempo is an award-winning gift store on King Street that focuses on stocking product lines that are made in the UK – over 80 per cent of their stock is designed and made in the UK.
The store has a huge range, from Harris Tweed bags and wallets to JellyCat plushies. It is a brilliant place to get a Secret Santa gift because there are so many generally great options.
Common Ground Games
Located on Cowane Street, Common Ground Games is the home of Stirling’s geeks and gamers. Board gaming has taken off as a hobby recently and it’s almost certain someone on your gift list would appreciate something from Common Ground.
You can browse their selection, divided into large games and smaller ones (many perfect as a Secret Santa gift or to play between Christmas dinner and dessert), or just ask the friendly owner for suggestions – Steve and his staff are always happy to help.
The Book Nook
The Book Nook is a wonderful spot on Upper Craigs. As well as being a shop, it’s also a cafe, so a perfect mid-point on your Christmas shopping journey.
The Book Nook stocks both new and second-hand books with a huge selection of interesting titles. Second-hand books make a fantastic, sustainable gift and are top of many lists this year. In addition, they stock various pin badges, stickers, and other ideal stocking fillers. They also have fantastic seasonal drinks specials.
Made in Stirling
Made in Stirling has an incredible range of items from talented local artists and makers. You can find something for everyone here because they platform a really diverse range of artists.
There’s also a great range of price points for any budget. The quality of the stock is high and you know your gift is supporting a local artist, which feels great.
Stirling’s Charity Shops
There are some incredible charity shops in Stirling with a vast and diverse range of stock. From the Oxfam bookshop, which also stocks DVDs and vinyl records, to Shelter, which is known for its beautiful clothes, you can snag a great gift and be sustainable this Christmas in Stirling.
Honourable Mention: Bridge of Allan
Bridge of Allan is a small village just five minutes by train from Stirling and it has a fabulous selection of shops. Top pick is Nutshell, a homewares and fashion store that has some extremely trendy home decor and high-quality clothing.
There’s also Kelso and Titch Boutique, dedicated to gorgeous pet products, Home by Julia Nairn, Woodwinters for your giftee who likes a drink, Uncommon Life, Lockhart and Taylor’s gift shop, and several more. It’s definitely worth taking a bit of time to explore what’s available in the village.
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