Stress Free Christmas Shopping on Pen Llyn

With less than two weeks until the 25th December, preparations are in full swing; lists are frantically being checked, decorations have been retrieved from the loft, and there are social activities aplenty. It’s a hectic time of year, and the joy of choosing the perfect gift for a loved one can easily be lost in the seemingly never-ending to-do list as Christmas shopping becomes just another festive chore.

If this sounds familiar then it’s time to slow down, and think smaller. For stress free Christmas shopping, avoid the hustle and bustle of city centre chain stores and check out some of our fabulous local independents. Not only will you beat the high street blues, you’ll get that warm glowy feeling knowing you’re supporting some great small businesses. And if you can’t make it in person most of these shops will be more than happy to send items in the post.

First Light, Abersoch

This boutique in the centre of Abersoch is small but mighty, stocking a range of cool clothing and footwear, along with great gifts such as candles, homewares and jewellery even the pickiest of teenagers will love.

Cwt Tatws, Tudweiliog

Owned and run by S4C’s Daloni Metcalfe, Cwt Tatws is a lifestyle boutique and cafe on the northern coast of Pen Llyn which stocks an eclectic range of clothing and homewares, with a cafe providing the perfect place to rest and recharge.

Lavender House, nr Llanbedrog

A hidden gem, this gift, clothing and interiors store is tucked away on a former RAF base between Pwllheli and Llanbedrog. With a huge range of cards and everything from childrens gifts, Jellycats, books and games, to clothing and accessories, furniture and homewares, it’s hard to leave the store empty handed.

Martha Jones, Pwllheli

On the corner of Stryd Fawr and Stryd y Llan, this gorgeous gift shop stocks a wide range of cards and small gifts such as books, notebooks, diaries, candles, bags and accessories, including popular brands Yankee Candle and Roka.

Glosters, Porthmadog

Run by husband and wife dream team Tom and Myfanwy Gloster this beautiful shop in the centre of Porthmadog stocks contemporary ceramics made in the nearby Glosters workshop, along with a fab range of gifts and cards from Wales-based artisan makers. Check out their Instagram page for daily updates and product drops.

Siop Fawr, Porthmadog

Portmeirion’s ‘Siop Fawr’ is located in the former Kerfoots premises. The shop has been at the heart of Porthmadog High Street since 1874 and is thought to be the oldest department store in North Wales. Today, it’s home to three floors of gifts and homewares including brands such as Sophie Conran, Emma Bridgwater and Smeg as well as soft furnishings from Melin Tregwynt and, naturally, Portmeirion pottery.

Yr Oriel, Criccieth

This charming antiques and vintage shop has long been a fixture of Criccieth High Street and is a treasure trove of jewellery, pottery, silverware, small pieces of homewares and unusual bits and pieces, ideal for Christmas shopping. It’s just the place to find a unique gift for that ‘hard to buy for’ person.