Christmas Shopping in St Ives
In the run up to the big day when you’re looking for tasty little stocking fillers, handmade decorations and special presents for friends and family, St Ives has a unique and vibrant range of fascinating shops to choose from. So, whether you’re visiting just before the festival season or you’re lucky enough to be staying in a holiday cottage on Christmas and want to do a bit of last-minute shopping, here are some of our favourite places to check out.
New Craftsman Gallery, Fore Street
The oldest art gallery in St IvesThe New Craftsman Gallery was first established by Janet Leach, wife of the famous potter, Bernard. Still holding true to its influential roots the gallery sells handmade jewellery, ceramics, crafted work and of course beautiful paintings.
St Ives Bookseller, Fore Street
With a great selection of books about the southwest ...this charming independent book shop is a great place to pick up some interesting local literature or to chat with their knowledgeable staff about which novel to buy next.
The Painted Bird, Fore Street
Just opposite the St Ives Bookseller, The Painted Bird has long been a favourite shop with both visitors and locals looking for more unique and handmade gifts.The shop has a lovely range of items made locally as well as from around the world including mosaics, scarfs, sculptures and not to mention one of the best card sections in town.
The Glass Tree, The Digey
Jewellery, candles, soaps, cuddly toys and chocolates… The Glass Tree is choc-a-block with crowd pleasing quality gifts.
Kudos, Fore Street
A veritable treasure trove of exotic and rare antiques, jewellery, statues and instruments from around the world.This charming – if slightly shambolic – shop on Fore Street is definitely a one off and well worth a look inside.
The Sloop Craft Market, behind the Sloop Inn
The Sloop Craft Market is a year-round market space with workshops and exhibition spaces where you can see the artists and craftspeople creating jewellery, artwork, ceramics, stained glass and more.
St Ives Farmers Market, Street an Pol
Open every Thursday in The Guildhall this popular and multi-award winning local market is packed with local produce and food for eating there and then or taking away to wrap up later, handmade crafts and much more.
I Should Coco, Tregenna Place
Surely a chocoholics’ dream!This artisan choco shop produces hand-made chocolate from fresh Cornish cream in full view of their customers. Choose from stocking fillers like cream truffles and chocolate lollies to a range of unique Christmas chocolates and edible decorations or even a personalised “chocogram”.
Johns Wine and Spirit Specialist, Fore Street
For a few bottles of something extra special...to enjoy with family over the festive period or for gifts, John’s Wine and Spirit Specialist stock an impressive range of good local, worldwide and exotic drinks.
Roly’s Fudge Pantry
When you walk past Roly’s Fudge Pantry you’ll often see a small (and hungry looking!) crowd gathered at the window curiously watching the fresh fudge being made on-site. Buying for someone with a sweet tooth? Swing by here. Their selection is vast.
Now, if that has worked up an appetite for you, check out our blog on where to get a scrummy Christmas lunch in St Ives – St Ives Christmas Lunches