Kate A
07 March 2019
A paradise for shopping, Harrogate is the perfect destination for some retail therapy in Yorkshire. Its handsome tree-lined avenues and charming cobbled streets offer an elegant mix of exclusive boutiques, stylish galleries and little independents with something to suit every taste and budget.
Shop ‘til you drop on James Street with its jewellers, booksellers and chocolatiers, pick up something dazzling to wear at West Park, or stroll along Cold Bath Road or Commercial Street and treat yourself to some original homewares and handmade gifts. The antique emporiums, art galleries and pavement cafes of the Montpellier Quarter are perfect for whiling away a relaxed afternoon or if you’re after some high street labels, the Victoria Shopping Centre is the place to go.
The Cheeseboard, Harrogate
These days, many of us do most of our shopping online, but you can’t beat the experience of taking the time to find something unique and special in a shop whose collections have been curated to provide something a little different. Therefore, we have chosen a selection of our current favourite independent Harrogate shops, from the eclectic to the luxurious, for those seeking a more memorable shopping experience.
Sophie Likes is an independent lifestyle boutique on Beulah Street. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or looking for seasonal hygge inspiration for your home, you’ll find it all here (and more!). Browse among driftwood sailboats and bright striped deckchairs, wonderfully scented honeysuckle candles in tins and rows of colourfully printed bunting for presents to keep even the fussiest of friends happy.
Covet is a treasure trove of fashion, lifestyle accessories and homewares from around the world. Ignite your senses with the heady scents and styles of the Marrakech bazaars, admire original Middle Eastern jewellery and choose Danish design pieces for the home. Many items in this Harrogate shop are handmade from recycled/reclaimed materials and are ethically sourced to make them one-of-a-kind and extra special. You'll be amazed at what you discover.
If you’re shopping for a one-of-a-kind children’s gift, Little Alligators sits among the great indie shops in the thriving Cold Bath Road area of Harrogate. Tried and tested by the owner’s children, the fun range of craft, colouring and creative products are sure to be adored by kids of all ages. From scented pens to a beautiful collection of clothes, bedding, wooden toys and party essentials, there is plenty of inspiration for the little ones in your life.
For art lovers, the Dove Tree Art Gallery & Studio is sure to inspire some original gift inspiration. This independent studio is run by Harrogate artist Anita Bowerman who is known for her paintings, paper cuts and stainless-steel artworks influenced by the Yorkshire countryside. Even if you don’t have someone to buy for, you’ll certainly be tempted to treat yourself to one of her original paintings or limited-edition prints, and if you have time, she runs art courses from her studio.
When only diamonds will do, Crown Jewellers on Commercial Street offers a fine assortment of glittering gifts. This independent family-run business offers unrivalled experience when it comes to jewellery shopping in Harrogate. From luxury certificated diamonds to contemporary silver and antique pieces, there is something for everyone. They even specialise in a range of pre-owned Tiffany & Co. jewellery for an extra-special treat.
Harrogate has some fantastic sweet shops, one of which offers The Original Harrogate Toffee, still packaged in the iconic blue and silver embossed tins. Established in 1840, Farrah’s of Harrogate has supplied mouthwatering toffee and all manner of candies to generations. Aside from the sweet-toothed treats, they offer a selection of Yorkshire tea, biscuits, preserves and other local specialities, perfect for a souvenir or a gift for a loved one.
A fourth-generation Harrogate retailer, Jespers has been serving patrons since 1901. Showcasing unusual gifts for both children and adults, you’ll find traditional games and toys, handsome leather briefcases and bags, not to mention a stunning range of specialist fountain pens including a collection purely for ‘Game of Thrones’ fans.
Having stocked speciality cheese for over 30 years, The Cheeseboard is one of Yorkshire’s finest cheese shops. This Aladdin’s cave offers over 200 types of Yorkshire, British and Continental cheeses which are accompanied by other delectable delights including confits, baked fig balls, crackers, olives and pates, to name just a few. Treat yourself to a wedge of Swaledale Ewe’s Milk, Ribblesdale Original or Olde York, or choose a bespoke hamper as a gift for a cheese connoisseur. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to offer samples and advice on your selection.
Shine is an independent gift shop in Harrogate specialising in handmade jewellery, accessories and home decorations. Within the shop’s elegant displays, are a wonderful array of exquisite items, all carefully chosen to offer something a little different to customers. Alongside a wide range of stone-set jewellery incorporating opals, amber, agates and freshwater pearls, there is a compelling collection of handmade Italian leather handbags, scarves, belts, gloves and purses.
Tucked away in the iconic Westminster Arcade, Imagined Things is a proudly independent Harrogate bookshop. Peruse an eclectic mix of good old-fashioned paperbacks and hardbacks across a range of genres for all ages, you might even spot some signed and gift editions. Can’t find what you’re looking for? They also offer a next day book ordering service for any book in print. And aside from the wonderful collection of books, there is an assortment of cards, stationery and gift ideas.
After all that shopping...
With so much choice, we’re sure you’ll have a great Harrogate shopping experience. When you’ve shopped until you’ve dropped, why not enjoy the finest taste of Yorkshire in one of Harrogate’s restaurants? Our handy guide highlights some of the best. And when you need somewhere to sleep, we offer a handpicked selection of cosy holiday cottages and bijou apartments perfect for shopaholics, amongst the stylish boutiques of the town and near the Harrogate Shopping Centre.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.