12 extra special Christmas gift ideas from Cheltenham retailers

The most magical time of the year is just around the corner! As Christmas lights start twinkling over Cheltenham's streets and shop windows transform into yuletide wonderlands, we're busy prepping our shopping lists for the big day.

 

Cheltenham boasts an enviable shopping scene at any time of year, from big-name brands to independent boutique retailers. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift or something special for yourself, our town has something to suit everyone's tastes and styles! 

 

So, grab your coat, don your favourite scarf, and join us as we embark on a journey through the magic of Christmas gift shopping in Cheltenham. Showcasing a few of the great products available from the town's businesses.

Karl James Gifts

 

Karl James Gifts, in the prestigious Montpellier district, is a brilliant one-stop shop for unique Christmas gifts in Cheltenham. From jewellery made by local artists to recycled aluminium and hand-enamelled coasters from India. Their thoughtfully curated collection is added to each month, offering constant variety and new ideas.

 

We loved the look of these beautifully patterned bowls made from hollowed-out coconuts. £15.  

Sostrene Grene

One of the newer additions to the Cheltenham retail scene, Sostrene Grene in the Brewery Quarter provides a world of cosiness and creativity for artists, homemakers, and hobbyists everywhere. With a wide variety of crafting goods to aid your loved ones on their next DIY project, as well as a plethora of charming trinkets to deck out your home.

 

For those looking for a relaxing pastime gift this Christmas, we recommend this beautiful, painted puzzle for only £10.80.

John Lewis

With beauty, fashion, electrics, decorations, and toys all under one roof, John Lewis in Cheltenham is the ideal destination to stock up on presents large and small.

 

For those picky family members that are hard to buy for, we particularly like the large variety of food hampers available on the store's ground floor. Here you’ll find displays full of delicious nibbles, drinks, sweet treats and preserves, neatly packaged in aesthetic gift boxes. Why not take your family on a trip around the world with this colourful Coffees of the World gift box? £28.

My Pastalicious

 

Speaking of food hampers, why not step it up a notch and create your own?  

 

With an incredible assortment of deli products to choose from, My Pastalicious on Winchcombe Street has everything you need to put together an extra special food package for that foodie friend of yours. 

 

Might we suggest pairing a Contadini antipasto preserve with some I Bibanesi bread sticks and Rossa red wine for a delicious Italian feast. 

Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen

 

Looking for something truly unique? The Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen is a charitable membership organisation made up of designer-makers, meaning all of their products are distinct and individually made.

 

Their Cheltenham store on Rotunda Terrace has an ever-changing selection of contemporary jewellery, ceramics, textiles, baskets and much more. We thought these hand-printed, cobalt blue vases by Janine Roper were particularly stunning. £70.

MIMMO Studios

 

MIMMO Studios, based in Montpellier, is an independent clothing and homeware store founded by Katie Brown and Lil Gardiner. Built on the premise of 'reinventing retail', they have a focus on timeless design and building a community of 'retail activists'. With a variety of sustainable stocking fillers, plastic-free Christmas decorations, and fashionable attire made from recycled materials.

 

This assortment of cork-topped terrariums stood out to us and would make a stylish accompaniment to anybody’s greenery collection. From £45.

  

Cambridge Spectacle Co.

 

One of the newest additions to Cheltenham’s Regent Arcade is the Cambridge Spectacle Co. Providing high-quality, fashionable eyewear that prioritises eye health above all else, their team of Optometrists provide their customers with the trust and value they deserve.

 

We picked out a selection of attractive frames that would make a thoughtful gift for any spectacle-wearing loved one. With prices from £95.   

 

Pink Vintage

 

Based in the heart of Montpellier Cheltenham, Pink Vintage prides itself on being a uniquely different shop. Selling an eclectic mix of upcycled hand-painted furniture, interesting vintage finds, Monmouth coffee from London and Hope & Greenwood sweets. For lovers of vintage and quirky home décor, this is the place to be.

With their bright colourful lights, it was hard not to notice these neon displays, and we think this on-air sign would be the ideal gift for a young streamer or media enthusiast. £129.95  

The Union Project

 

Cheltenham’s own The Union Project should be high on the list of shops to stop by for any young fashionistas. Their finely curated edit of menswear, womenswear, and lifestyle brands are sure to make you stand out from the crowd. We thought this colourful, Columbia sherpa fleece would make a particularly cool addition to the wardrobe this Christmas. £60.

Square Pillow

 

Bespoke luxury bed linen, gorgeous bath robes, nightwear, lingerie and more! The Square Pillow in Montpellier has been a staple of Cheltenham for over 30 years and remains committed to providing stunning pieces to customers seeking that special touch. 

 

Their selection of high-quality bath robes and nightwear is perfect for a parent or partner with a love for the finer things in life.

Jelly Armchair

 

Jelly Armchair is a small family business run by sister team Cat and Liz. They have a tree-mendous array of pun-laden, hand-doodled cards and gifts to choose from at their stunningly decorated Bath Road shop. We think their fun and funky, ‘Guess the Puns’ calendar would make a delightful gift or stocking filler for a loved one with a silly side. £16.  

Cheltenham Gift Card

 

Do you have a friend or family member who’s difficult to buy for? Don’t fret, you can take the guesswork out of the equation with a Cheltenham Gift Card. Currently accepted at 100 businesses in the town, including shops, restaurants, hotels, bars, and cafes, give the gift of a town centre shopping spree while supporting local businesses. It’s a win-win!

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Check out our other Christmas gift guides for more inspiration: