Whether you pick up a book or two from the local bookshop or opt for tea and cake at an independent tea room, there are lots of ways you can support Gloucestershire’s independent businesses.
1. The Fairview Gardener in Gloucester
If you’re after some garden inspiration, The Fairview Gardener is just the ticket – stocking a wonderful selection of plants, trees, shrubs and garden ornaments. Ran by Glenn Satterthwaite since its opening in 2009, the garden centre also stocks Christmas trees over the festive period, as well as wreaths and hanging baskets. There’s also a vintage-inspired giftshop selling quality homeware, from candles to mugs, seasonal decorations to reed diffusers.
After picking up a treat or two, visitors can relax in The Tea Room, ran by Luke and his team, who serve homemade cakes, pastries and savoury food as well as hot drinks and unusual herbal teas. Using locally-sourced ingredients – some even from the neighbouring farm – The Tea Room also sells locally-made jams.
Read SoGlos’s review of The Tea Room’s afternoon tea to find out what we thought.
2. M.A.D.E in Cirencester
Otherwise known as Makers And Designers Emporium, M.A.D.E is an independent Cirencester boutique stocking British-designed gifts and homeware. From prints to jewellery, accessories to kitchenware, the store nestled inside a stone-walled shop is the ideal destination to pick up some lovely gifts.
3. Tubby Tom’s
Spice fans will love Tubby Tom’s hot sauces, pickles and seasonings. Based in Gloucester, you can buy products online and in selected stores. After making it his full-time job in 2017, Tom’s products are now sold across the country as well as at local food markets.
4. Crocodile in Cirencester
Crocodile is a family-run toyshop in Cirencester, selling quality products for children. Proudly plastic-free, the shop prides itself on sustainable and ethically-sourced materials.
5. Mary Maggs in Broadway
After opening in 2012, Mary Maggs in Broadway has been selling accessories, ceramics, prints, sculptures, cushions and furniture made by British artists and craftspeople. With many products in the gallery made by local artists, it’s a great place to pick up unusual and quirky gifts and homeware.
6. Favourite Beers in Cheltenham
Selling a range of unusual beers from both local and international breweries, Favourite Beers in Cheltenham is a great spot for those who fancy a tipple or two. With the option to sign up to a ‘monthly beer box’, beer lovers can get a range of different drinks sent right to their door.
7. The Man Cave in Broadway
Pick up some quirky gifts at The Man Cave in Broadway, stocking a selection of rare and retro products. From arcade machines to upcycled furniture, collectables to clothing, you’ll find an eclectic mix of products.
8. Primrose Vale Farm Shop in Cheltenham
Swap out the supermarket for Primrose Vale Farm Shop, where you can find home-grown vegetables, local cheeses, game, baked goods as well as a deli. You can even go and pick your own fruit at certain times of the year, such as pumpkin picking in October and strawberry picking in the summer.
9. The Suffolk Anthology in Cheltenham
Book worms will love browsing the shelves at The Suffolk Anthology in Cheltenham, which stocks a range of books from new releases to old classics, children’s stories to poetry. Keep an eye out for local author signings throughout the year.
10. Hetty’s Kitchen in Gloucester
If you love cake, Hetty’s Kitchen in Gloucester is the place to be. Making and selling a delicious selection of brownies, cakes, muffins, cookies and other scrumptious delights from a ‘cake hatch’, Hetty’s Kitchen is the ultimate sweet tooth paradise.
11. Wholly Cow Gelato in Elmore
On a bright summer’s day, what’s better than a delicious ice cream? Wholly Cow Gelato is an artisan ice cream producer using milk from cows reared at its base on the Hobbs family farm. With unusual flavours to choose from, there are selections such as Sea Salt Caramel, Orange Zest, Malteser, Cherry, Hazelnut and more, as well as the classic vanilla and chocolate.
By Amy Wright
