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Shop local this Christmas!

18th November 2020

Categories: Visitor News

Christmas is looking a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t show your appreciation for your loved ones with a gift or two. Devon is full of incredible, unique gifts that can be picked up at independent stores and markets all over the county with everything from locally produced crafts, antiques and designer brands. With lockdown set to end the first week of December, there isn't much time left!

Be aware that at this time, shops can get very busy, so make sure to socially distance and wear a mask while out and about. Some shops will limit the number of people allowed in at a time, so wear weather appropriate clothes and don’t forget, don’t travel if you are in a high risk area.

There are plenty of places for you to get a head start with your shopping lists, especially in places like Totnes where you’ll find lots of quirky independent shops and Barnstaple, where you’ll find the historic Pannier Market.

Image: Affinity Devon

Make a day of it by heading to North Devon and indulging in some outlet shopping at Affinity Devon . Based in Bideford, Affinity Devon has over thirty different stores offering up to 50% off the usual price. The shopping centre has free parking and free WiFi throughout, so there is no pressure to hurry your way around. Each individual shop has their own Covid-19 regulations, but unless you are exempt, you will be required to wear a mask while inside and there are hand washing stations at various points throughout the outlet.

Not only are there plenty of shops, but you’ll also find a range of eateries onsite, so grab a coffee and a cake and even enjoy your evening meal out!

If you don’t fancy spending all day in the shopping centre, there are loads of other options of places to eat and drink nearby including the Regency Restaurant at the Hotel Royal in Bideford and the Pier House in Westward Ho! This is the town’s only seafront bar and bistro and at this time of year, there are some very dramatic sights to be had while you’re enjoying your dinner.

Image: Quince Honey Farm

Speaking of food, buying sweet treats is a great option for a low cost and thoughtful Christmas gift. Quince Honey Farm is the place to get incredible gift packs made up of local honey as well as candles, skincare and more, all made with the honey produced onsite!

Another great place to find interesting gifts is at Dartington Crystal . As the only remaining glass factory in the UK, this is the place to go for British glass, not only can you watch the skilled glass makers in action in the factory, but you can learn more about the process at the Visitor’s Centre and pick up incredible glass creations at their shop.

At the other end of the county you’ll find the Shops at Dartington, consisting of fifteen shops and restaurants selling crafts, glassware, food, fashion, toys and just about everything else you can think of, you’ll be able to make some serious head way with your shopping list here. The shops are within the famous Dartington Hall estate, which is always worth a visit. The site has restaurants, cafes, beautiful medieval architecture and a host of events and activities, so you can really make a day of your trip here.

Image: House of Marbles

Just a short journey away is House of Marbles , the one stop shop for quality toys, games and gifts. The shop features everything from homeware to stationery, to confectionary to fashion, so if you are looking for the perfect gift, this is a great place to visit. House of Marbles are located in Newton Abbot, just a stone’s throw from the English Riviera, where you’ll also have a host of shopping opportunities. From high streets with a mix of independent and brand name stores to markets with unique home made gifts, there are loads of options here. One place to visit where you can exercise your credit card is the Fleet Walk Shopping area in Torquay. Located in the heart of Torquay Town Centre with the harbour as its backdrop, you’ll find over fifty different stores, restaurants and more.

Don’t forget, Devon is full of amazing experiences, so you rather than gifting someone a thing, why not give them the chance to make memories instead? Why not book an excursion to Skern Lodge or the North Devon Wake Park in the north of the county? Located in the Tamar Valley is Tree Surfers which provides an amazing day out for the whole family and would be the perfect gift for the adventurous members of your bubble. Or what about Crag 2 Mountain ? This is another option for those who love a bit of adventure, offering activities across Dartmoor with options for all levels of ability. Want something a bit gentler? There are experiences for that too! With everything from pony trekking on the moor to a relaxing spa day in a luxury hotel, Devon has loads of organisations offering experiences providing you with the perfect gift. Want a few more ideas? Take a look at other activities taking place across the county here. These kinds of gifts are a great way to make memories and give you something to look forward to in the months to come!

Want to find out more about the shopping opportunities across Devon? See more shops here.

Don’t forget, though we might want this Christmas to be as normal as possible, we may have to make concessions, don’t travel to go shopping if you are from a high risk area or are feeling unwell and make sure to follow all the latest guidelines while out and about. Most importantly though, have fun and enjoy yourselves (in a safe, socially distanced way of course!)