Christmas shopping in St Ives is always a good idea! Packed with independent stores, all bursting at the seams with unique finds and the work of talented local makers, a trip to St Ives in the festive season is guaranteed to inspire and delight.
The magical St Ives Christmas lights are turned on early (end of October) to add a little twinkle and sparkle to winter nights around the picturesque harbour. This year the official switch on takes place on 7th December, when Santa will be given a ride to shore by the St Ives lifeboat and the town’s Christmas tree will be illuminated.
Visiting St Ives at Christmas should be at the top of everyone’s wish list, but once you’re here you’ll be needing this handy guide. Our pick of the best independent shops in St Ives; you’ll discover something special for everyone on your gift list!
The St Ives Co.
You’ll find The St Ives Co. on Wharf Road, as well as in each of our beautiful properties in the form of guest toiletries. Led by three sisters, all from St Ives, this eclectic lifestyle store allows you to take a little piece of St Ives home with you, in the guise of everything from a cookbook to a candle, a bracelet to a body balm!
Zennor Wayside
Heading west from St Ives, in the enchanting village of Zennor you’ll find a curated assortment of work by local artists and makers at Zennor Wayside. The selection evolves with the seasons, but Christmas brings a wealth of inspired finds, from books by local authors to prints, accessories and handcrafted jewellery.
Scarlet Wines
Scarlet Wines is Lelant’s friendly neighbourhood wine store with a great selection of wines, beers and spirits. Located just off the A30 at the St Ives junction, why not time your wine-buying visit here to coincide with a leisurely lunch at The Old Forge? Scarlet Wines are our official vintners here at The Cottage Boutique, and we can easily arrange for a case to be waiting for you on arrival to your holiday property in Lelant, Carbis Bay or St Ives.
Magpie & London
For the most discerning giftee on your list, head to Magpie & London on St. Andrews Street. Here you can browse handpicked fashion and lifestyle finds from a small selection of uber-trendy brands; the hard work has all been done for you by someone with a brilliant eye!
Illustrated Living
The second store from Illustrated Living (their first is in Lemon Street Market in Truro) is a treasure-trove of gifts and homewares for those design-led friends and family members who value individuality.
The Common Wanderer
If you have an outdoor enthusiast in your life, The Common Wanderer is a must-visit for that Christmas gift they will cherish. Packed with brilliant brands and with a strong focus on sustainability, you’re sure to find something to inspire fresh wanderings.
Sloop Studios
The Sloop Studios is St Ives’ historic artisan quarter, where today you’ll find the small working studios of painters, ceramicists, jewellers, and woodworkers. For more information on individual studios, opening times and contact details, click here.
The Allotment Deli
For great food and drink gifts from St Ives, head to The Allotment Deli where you’ll find everything you need for the ultimate Christmas hamper packed with goodies. Our own arrival hampers (available on request) come from The Allotment Deli, and we can also arrange a delivery of groceries from this great local store during your stay.
The Painted Bird
Making our lives that little bit more beautiful since 1991, is The Painted Bird. We’re talking the softest blankets, plump handmade cushions, beautiful ceramics and pretty pots for our favourite plants; the simple things in life done well.
Brocante
At Brocante’s St Ives outpost on Fore Street (creative duo Kieron and David also have stores in Fowey, Mevagissey, Perranporth and Charlestown) you’ll find an eclectic selection of lifestyle, fashion and homewares – everything from socks to furniture gets a look in! Described as a ‘place to find the unexpected’, you’re sure to walk out of Brocante with a few perfect presents to wrap.
Sweet Lime
Sweet Lime is tucked away on Wills Lane not far from The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. The emphasis here is on fashion, accessories, jewellery and homewares from around the world, with colour and pattern assailing you the minute you walk in. We’re big fans!
Atlantic Blankets
Cornwall’s favourite snuggle, Atlantic Blankets were a welcome addition to St Ives when they opened a store here on Market Place (directly under our very snuggly property, Praeds). We love the designs inspired by life besides the sea, and admire the strong sustainability ethos of this brand, which is a real Cornish success story.
Academy
With three bases in St Ives, Academy is the town’s very own chain store! Combining fashion and accessories for men and women, plus lifestyle and gifts, Academy is a masterclass in cherry-picking the best from a whole array of brilliant maverick brands, from Swedish eyewear to Japanese socks.
Decided where to stay yet? Browse our St Ives, Carbis Bay and Lelant properties and find yourself the perfect base for festive retail therapy!
