For those who like their shopping crafty, quirky and independent (who doesn’t?), Grasmere represents a refreshing break from the high street. From designer gifts to traditional products and Lake District crafts, there are some fantastic shops in Grasmere to provide that special present or an authentic keepsake to remember your stay at our hotel in cumbria. Here are some great local stores you simply must browse, as recommended by our staff:

The Attic (Broadgate, LA22 9SX)
Packed with vintage treasures, local crafts and surprises, this is a browser’s dream. Charming old school homewares are a particular favourite, including delightful kitchen wares, signs and other items you will love. Furthermore, this is also a great place for authentic gifts sourced directly from The Lake District, such as products made of local slate.

Should you be looking for that unique something special for family or friends who are moving into a new home or getting married, this is the place to find it. Add some splendid books, nostalgic children’s toys and even something for man’s best friend and you have a fantastic shop. See for yourself at www.the-attic.co.uk

The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop (Church Cottage LA22 9SW)
It’s worth visiting this delightful den of sweet treats for the heavenly smell alone, as any of our staff will tell you. A whole range of freshly made specialities are simply too good to refuse, but the most famous of all is Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread. Still baked to the original 1854 recipe, this is heady stuff.

Other delectables including fudges, sauces, preserves, Kendal Mint Cake and many tempting options that make perfect gifts for foodies. If, that is, you can avoid the temptation to eat them yourself! Unsurprisingly, this is one of our favourite Grasmere shops. Find out more here: www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk

Barney’s Newsbox (LA22 9TA)
A must browse shop for the jigsaw puzzle fan, with over 5000 boxed puzzles to discover! Our own Adrian recommends the shop for finding Christmas gifts for friends and family. Besides being the daddy of specialist jigsaw shops, you’ll also find other gifts and collectibles such as model cars. See the site and range of products HERE.

The Cotswold Outlet (Ambleside, LA22 9SP )
Major stockists of all things outdoors, to prepare you for a walk or hiking expedition with everything from waterproofs to quality walking boots. Chris at Rothay Garden especially recommends the store as a good place to find discounted gear and clothing for any lover of the great outdoors.

Herdy (College St, LA22 9SZ)
With items from homewares to babywear, Herdy is the place for designer and craft gifts. Beautifully made woollen goods such as scarves, hats, handbags and throws are a particular speciality. You will also find plenty for your living spaces however, such as kitchen and tableware. Cute, clean feel-good designs are their hallmark, with something for everyone from little nippers to grandparents. See more at www.herdy.co.uk

Craglands Knitwear (Ambleside LA22 9SJ)
Looking to send someone your warmest regards this Christmas? Gifts don’t get much warmer than an authentic piece of Lake District knitwear, as sold by this long-established Grasmere shop. Woollen goods for her, him or the little ones are sure to catch admiring glances besides keep out the cold. NO website at present (which, in a traditional way, is almost slightly reassuring), but do stop by for a great choice of real wool gift items.

Sam Read Book Shop ( Broadgate House, Ambleside LA22 9SY)
Whether you want to pick up a bestselling novel, or a volume of Wordsworth poetry, this is the place for the visiting bookworm. An award-winning independent book store with a great range of titles and friendly, knowledgable service. See the site: www.samreadbooks.co.uk

Heaton Cooper Studio (Broadgate, Grasmere LA22 9SX)
Nationally renowned for its’ 3rd generation Lakeland Landscapes, this is a wonderful shop to find unique art, prints, sculpture and gifts. Our own keen landscape photographer Elliott is a big fan of this inspiring store. Take a peek at their range at the Heaton Cooper site: www.heatoncooper.co.uk

The Chocolate Cottage (Ambleside, LA22 9SJ)
This den of sweet treats wins rave reviews from sweet-toothed guests and staff alike, including Rothay Garden’s Vicky whose daughters love the place.. This is quite simply a must visit shop for chocolate lovers. You simply won’t find better handmade chocolates anywhere in the Lake District. Almost as much fun as eating them, however, is getting involved in one of their splendid chocolate-making workshops, that cater for both children and adults who fancy creating their own treats. Further details here: www.chocolatecottage.co.uk

Osprey Gifts & Interiors (Stock Lane, Ambleside, LA22 9SN)
Plenty of fresh inspiration for gift shopping here, as well as items to lift any living space. Jill at Rothay Garden is a big fan of their stunning range of interesting jewellery and interior design ideas.

Good Bags of Grasmere (Ambleside LA22 9SY)
Last but not least, any shopoholic will love the range of durable and stylish bags sold by this Ambleside store. A great selection of bags that make ideal gifts for mums, aunts and friends.