Five Stops for your Christmas Shop in Wiltshire

Whether you’re an experienced retail therapist or someone who would do anything BUT shopping, there are a number of unique local stores across the county which deserve a look-in. It’s a feel-good feeling when you shop local. And with Christmas just around the corner (and already on the shelves!) you can get in there early with the gifts too.

Curio (Urban Thrift) – Swindon

Located in the Brunel, I was fortunate enough to stumble on Curio recently. Pre-loved goods and vintage finds include clothing, jewellery, and accessories, and there are cabinets full of interesting items and collectables. Personally I loved their array of pop-culture stickers and I can assure you that Yoshi from Super Mario and John Lennon’s face have made lovely additions to the back of my laptop!

Photo from inSwindon BID’s website

The Emporium – Devizes

Handmade gifts and trinkets are a staple of this treasure trove, but the true Emporium experience is going in there with your friends and playing with the toys; and you can prank a loved –or not-so-loved- one with a ‘whoopee’ cushion or soap-flavoured sweet! There really is something for everyone. The Emporium is basically Aladdin’s cave: fun stationery, vibrant bath bombs, and Venetian masks are just some of the things you’re bound to find (and love)!

Photo from citikey.uk

Paprika – Chippenham

With a shop in Bath too (should you stray over the county line), Paprika has ranges For Him, Her, and everyone else in between. A gift shop by trade, you should definitely stop by in time for Christmas. Wallets, socks, scarves, and mugs... they’ve got it.

Photo from Paprika’s website

The India Shop – Salisbury

On the corner of Old George Mall, The India Shop stocks furniture as well as gifts, in case you wanted to zhuzh up your living space in time for Christmas too. There’s an awesome toiletry and beauty range as well. Not to mention everything is Fair Trade! So you can shop local and ethical. You can take your goodies away in recycled newspaper bags supplied by an NGO who provides education and shelter to children living on the street in India.

Photo from citikey.uk

The Emporium of Loveliness – Marlborough

Last but not least (and definitely lovely!) is a charity boutique in Hilliers Yard. Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind garment or a retro piece to decorate the home, its nose to the ground in this place and gifts galore! Good deals are always in stock. You can shop the unknown but know that your purchase goes towards Empower the Gambia, who work with women and children in rural Gambia. What I really like about the Emporium of Loveliness is that it feels like you’re poking around someone’s home – but you know, in a good way!

Written by Tessa Duell.