One For Them, Two For You; a Gift Shopping Guide

Whether you are shopping for that special someone or just picking something up for yourself Lancashire offers an unrivalled shopping experience. From historic farmers' markets selling mouth-watering local produce to ornate covered Victorian stalls and mill shops, you’re guaranteed to find just what you’re looking for and more. 

Vintage delights  
You don’t have to travel far in Lancashire to come across a treasure trove of vintage collections and antiques, perfect for those who are hard to shop for or enjoy something unusual as a gift.  

Assembly Rooms Emporium in Lancaster is housed in an 18th Century, Grade II listed building, and is home to stalls selling a wide range of interesting finds, from vintage clothing, vinyl records and pre-loved books. Alternatively, a trip to The Time Train, located in a picturesque courtyard in Clitheroe will take you back in time whilst offering a tasty treat in their cafe.  

Throughout the year Lancashire is also host to Crafty Vintage, a family run gathering of all things vintage and handmade. This year’s festive markets will include line up of handmade delights, gifts and collectables, all of which are locally produced, the markets provide the ideal opportunity to shop local and support independent business in the build up to Christmas 

Foodie favourites
Lancashire is renowned for its fantastic selection of fine tasting cuisine, from a crumbly creamy Lancashire cheese to warm and filling hot pot. Packaged as part of a hamper or on its own Lancashire produce can make a scrummy gift.  

Set in the heart of rural Lancashire, surrounded by rolling hills, Heskin Farmers Market and Craft Centre offers an incredible range of stalls, including a high-class butchers, delicatessen and florist.  

For something a little different, visit the award-winning Port of Lancaster Smokehouse, established over thirty years ago they use traditional methods of preparing and curing fish, meat and cheeses of all kinds. Situated in the historic 18th Century Glasson Dock a lot of the fish comes direct from the River Lune Estuary. 

Great food isn’t complete without a perfectly paired drink. The Whalley Wine Shop is a multi-award winning, independent wine merchant, set in the charming village of Whalley. Offering a wide range of wine, beer and spirits, their expert staff will be able to help you choose the best bottle for any occasion.  

Something different  
Part of the attraction of any gift buying experience is discovering something different filled with charm and character that you are sure the receiver will fall in love with!  

Creative home of mother and daughter artists, The Wolf House Gallery in Silverdale, offers a beautiful array of their original art, giclee prints, greeting cards and unique hand painted items, as well as an eclectic mix of interesting gifts.  

Alternatively, The Keep, a beautiful boutique art gallery in Clitheroe, offers a relaxed space to browse unique and contemporary artworks, homeware, jewellery and ceramics.  

Independents 
Many independent stores in Lancashire are family run and have been handed down from generation to generation ensuring quality and consistency from the good old days.  

Established in the summer of 1987, Cedar Farm is home to 25 independent businesses providing a wonderful range of contemporary art, clothing, home furnishings and beauty products, many of which are made on site, by their talented team. Including world award-winning Choc Amor, known for their imaginative flavor combinations such as Chill & Lime or Orange Jalfrezi.  

A haven for book lovers Carnforth Book Shop contains over 100,000 second hand and rare books, as well as new releases gifts, stationary and art materials.  

If you’re looking for something a little larger, Owd Barn Country in Leyland and The Regent in Blackpool both offer antique furniture, as well as smaller antique finds or lease new life into something old at Retro Chic Unique in Fleetwood with their upcycling service.  

The Jewel in Lancashire’s Shopping Crown 
The buzzing city of Preston is reputed as Lancashire’s shopping destination, with two shopping centres and a bustling high street full of well known brands, including Laura Ashley, Next and Marks & Spencer all in a compact and easy to explore centre.  

Preston is not just about famous high-street names but is a renowned market town. Having undergone an exciting transformation, the new Market Hall now provides a modern shopping experience in a contemporary glass and timber structure and the new Box Market opposite the hall offers something different unlike anything in the northwest. Visit for fresh quality Lancashire produce, gift inspiration or to enjoy a coffee and cake at one of the cafes.