We know, we know, Christmas is just around the corner. And if you've managed to get all your presents organised and ready, then go you! But, if you're anything like me, then you would have left things until now to panic about everything. And that's ok too! Because the county is home to some of the best areas to get all your Christmas bits and bobs! From high street favourites to quaint market stalls, Surrey & SW London have everything you need!
For the best places to shop in this season, scroll below:
1. Kingston
Immerse yourself in the magical wonders of Kingston and make this your one-stop shop for Christmas. With its impressive selection of 500 stores, two fulfilling shopping malls and a bustling marketplace of vibrant independent shops, it is no wonder this thriving market town is a popular choice for many.
So, if you're looking to create personal gifts for loved ones, make sure to book a place at West Elm’s Christmas Embroidery Workshop on 15 December. Located in The Bentall Centre, it's a great way to get in the festive mood and learn the basics of hand embroidery with textiles designer and founder of Embellished Talk Rebeckah Kemi Apara.
There will also be other shopping opportunities with the traditional Christmas market stalls (until 31 December), housed in beautiful wooden cabins selling festive treats for all, including handcrafted giftware to spiced mulled wine.
2. Wimbledon
Aside from hosting one of the world’s biggest sporting events, Wimbledon has plenty more reasons to make you travel beyond Zone 1. It truly is a shopper’s paradise with its big brand names at Centre Court Shopping Centre, which is home to a wide range of independent shops along the High Street. Plus, its impressive four floor department store Elys, offering high end fashion for all, homeware, accessories and electrical goods.
Why not walk up the hill to Wimbledon Village? There you will find a blend of chic shops of cute décor stores like Dinette and Nordic Store. But, if you're after some more luxurious gifts to add to your Christmas stockings you'll also find luxury boutique clothing shops such as Matches Fashion, Joesph and Jigsaw.
Pick out all your delicious festive treats of fruit, vegetables, meat or cheese from Bayley and Sage and then walk over to Gardenia to choose your beautiful Christmas flower arrangements that will really bring the festive ambience into your home. Plus, if you fancy getting creative, Gardenia, this season are hosting a bespoke Christmas wreath making workshop on December 4 from 3 pm with The Fox and Grapes.
However, if you still haven't quite found what you're looking for, there will be plenty of gift inspiration and delights at the 12 days of Christmas Markets on The Piazza. Here, there will be over 40 different traders selling their wares, including art, Christmas decorations, hampers, homewards and accessories.
3. Farnham
A market town at heart, Farham really offers something for everyone because of its variety of shopping districts of independent gems, local produce, specialists shops, high street brands and market stalls.
The best gifts for men, women and children can all be found under one roof at Farnham’s very own family-run department store, Elphicks, which stocks fashion, toys, cookware and furnishings. Then take a stroll over the lovely cobbled car free street, Lion and Lamb Yard with its perfect selection of luxury household’s shops, bookshops, bespoke jewellery and traditional county clothing.
Are you buying a gift for an ageing rocker? An opera buff, or maybe you're searching for a rare find for your own vinyl collection? Then look no further! 101 Collectors Records in West Street could be an option for that perfect gift - showing you really know how to think outside the box! Afterwards, take a walk along the historic Downing Street for delicious Christmas food supplies at ethnically sourced butchers, Smallbones and Sons and sweet treats and scrumptious bread at Loaf Bakery.
For other shopping opportunities, visit Farnham’s Christmas Market on 9 December at 10am for more than 200 stalls across five locations in the town centre selling crafts, trinkets, food, drink and jewellery. What more could you ask for?
4. Richmond
Indulge in a big old dose of splashy treats this festive season with Richmond’s enticing mix of shopping opportunities of top designer names, specialist businesses and much-loved antique shops. It’s no wonder it has been a favourite retreat for royalty and even the rich and famous!
For those sports enthusiasts, you will be spoilt for choice with its independent specialist sports shops. Up and Running is the perfect place to nab some new running shoes, clothing and accessories. Or, there's even Richmond Sports, which in my personal opinion is perfect for supporting all of your ‘sporting’ needs, including fitness equipment, balls, bags and nutrition. For the bike buffs, visit Bicycle Richmond or Richmond Cycles for finding those latest niche gifts.
However, if you're after an alternative gift for your other half, or the apple of your eye try Raygun. It really is a comic-lovers dream with its rare finds and must-haves for any collection making it a cherished gift that will be enjoyed forever. So, make sure you visit this comic store this Christmas to make someone very happy.
Also, don’t miss Richmond’s amazing weekly and monthly farmers’ and foodie markets, craft fairs and other specialist events, providing lots of inspiration for your gifts.
5. Guildford
Guildford is always a fabulous shopping experience to remember because of its beautiful cobbled streets, alluring selection of cool designer brands, luxury retailers, independent outlets bustling farmers’ markets. The High Street this year has even been shortlisted for one of the best in the whole of the UK, which means it definitely needs to be on your shopping list this year!
For the chocolate lovers, visit the well-known Hotel Chocolate for your small treat or extravagant dessert for the table. From mouth-watering chocolates, advent calendars, ultimate hampers, yule logs, festive wreaths to a real hot chocolate maker, there is something to suit all. And we all know that chocolate makes everyone happy!
The Bear Garden is one of the UK's leading specialist teddy bear and soft toy shops and caters for new born, children to adults. Stocking a variety of vintage bears to new brand toys, including Action Agents, TY, Teddy Herman and Charlie Bears. It's the perfect gift for newborns, toddlers and even your girlfriend!
Anthropologie is a destination for the creative, worldly woman offering an expansive collection of clothing, homeware, and unique furniture. You really don’t need to go any further for inspirational presents this Christmas because there is something for everyone, plus wonderful gift sets too.
For wine lovers, it is simple, visit The Guildford Wine Co to find the distinctive wines from around the world and many from boutique producers. A perfect choice for a gift or complimenting your Christmas feasts and parties.
6. Reigate
Nestled at the foot of the North Downs, this beautiful traditional market town is a shopping haven to visit this Christmas. Providing a magnificent back drop, Reigate still retains a village feel that is complimented with an array of independent shops, including antiques, craft, clothing boutiques, furniture and gift ware. Plus, fantastic high street brands, buzzing coffee shops, delicious restaurants, cosy pubs and many hidden treasures, making it an ideal shopping Christmas experience for all.
If it is not chocolate, cheese is definitely a guilty pleasure. Whether it is the ultimate cheese board or a mouth-watering hamper with complimentary chutneys and crackers, head to Cullenders for its incredible array of cheeses.
And who says men can’t get it right when buying women’s clothing? There are so many fabulous women’s boutiques on the high street, including GEDO who offers a special personal service with a difference to really help with your specific needs and they will even gift wrap your treats too! Does that mean Christmas is sorted?
