Shopping centres are expected to be busy soon with people buying Christmas presents, but have you thought about shopping at independent retailers?
It is getting to the time of the year where shopping centres will busy with people buying Christmas presents. One place expected to be busy is the Queensgate Shopping Centre in Peterborough.
Although there are many well-known brands to shop from, Christmas is a good time to support independent retailers. While the convenience of shopping online might also be attractive, if we want to keep our high streets alive we need to support local businesses.
There are several independent shops in Peterborough that are worth a visit this Christmas. We’ve put together five in and around Queensgate where you can find unique gifts for friends and family.
Unity
Unity is a shop under the Up the Garden Bath project. The shop is run by Dave Poulton and Kez Hayes-Palmer and has been running for around two years.
It sells products made by more than 50 local crafters. The products range from earrings made from book pages, ornaments made from recycled materials, and much more. The shop also has a small section for secondhand clothes.
Treasured
Treasured is a pop-up shop just in Queensgate for Christmas. It stems from popular monthly craft fairs run by Aimee Plumridge, bringing together local makers and independent retailers in one place.
The shop showcases products made by stall holders in the fair, as well as other local makers. Some products on offer include vegan cakes, 3D prints, glass works, and more.
Style
This independent boutique is in Westgate Arcade, nestled within Queensgate. It is a small shop run by a mother and daughter.
The boutique is a “celebration of style, individuality, and timeless charm”, according to the Queensgate website. It sells a range of jewellery, bags, and scarves, as well as other items perfect for a gift.
Soul Happy
Another shop in Westgate Arcade, Soul Happy is an ethical and eco shop. It sells a range of upcycled items, local creations and other ethical gifts.
On its social media, it also says it includes a witch apothecary. Soul Happy is also used as an event space for local events.
Clues
Clues, also in Westgate Arcade, is an independent men’s clothing retailer. It sells a range of high quality men’s brands such as SikSilk, Nicce, Weekend Offender, Fila, Ellesse, Guess & Stance, and much more.
It has been a “pioneer in the young fashion experience for over 30 years”, as stated on the Queensgate website. It has a wide range of clothing that will suit anyone who visits.
