I’m not one of those organised types who manages to do all of their Christmas shopping well in advance, in a military-operation of lists and focus!  No, I’m the type to panic internet shop, narrowly making the last delivery date before Christmas!

This year, I am hoping things will be a little different, with the advent of some really wonderful shops in Ambleside.

Just a quick stroll through the streets and I am drawn into shop-after-shop and (aside from drawing up my own list for Santa) am full of inspiration for gifts for my nearest and dearest.  One such recently opened store is Kindred Spirits (@KSambleside), full of craft spirits from authentic, small-batch producers.  The bottles come in unique shapes and sizes and make unusual gifts for gin connoisseurs.

Another wonderful little treasure trove is Herby Jacks (@herbyjacks.co.uk), stocked with great gifts from candles to soaps, vintage book prints to vintage ceramics, and is the perfect one-stop shop for that hard to buy for friend.

For your foodie-types a must shop is Stock Ghyll Fine Foods, which sells a veritable smorgasbord of fine food products (clue’s in the name!), including artisan fresh food and contemporary groceries from Cumbria and the continent.  I feel some Christmas gift hampers coming on…!

We all have a chocoholic friend (or three!) so look no further than Ye Olde Friars, a stalwart of Ambleside since 1927 and a wonderful temptation of all things Chocolate.  There are stocking-fillers galore from amusing chocolate gifts (chocolate Brussel Sprout anyone?) to divine handmade truffles, beautifully packaged.

For the outdoorsy-types there is no end of places to purchase gifts for enthusiasts of camping, climbing, running, cycling, skiing and hill walking, and each store has knowledgeable staff who are all happy to assist with any request.

Newly moved to a larger, more prominent position is Ambleside Sheepskins, the interior of the shop is filled with beautifully soft sheepskins in a variety of shades.  Perhaps a sheepskin rug is not for everyone, but they also sell the most gorgeous sheepskin slippers and gloves.

So, that’s it, Christmas shopping sorted in just one town, with unique gifts for all.  Of course, if you get stuck for any ideas you can always buy a Rothay Manor gift voucher, and with immediate email delivery they make the perfect last-minute gift!

Book a short break to Rothay Manor and spend time Christmas shopping, explore some of the other local towns and villages for more unique (and local) products, and take some time to relax before the duties of Christmas bear down!  Stay 2 nights and get the third FREE when quoting XMASSHOPPING between now and 22nd December when phoning our friendly reception team on 015394 33605.