Best artisanal & boutique shops for Christmas Gifts in Cork
As the Christmas rush sets in this weekend, we have selected some of our favourite spots to pick up some truly unique gifts while supporting local suppliers and small producers.
Unbound
A unique, unusual and quirky find just around the corner of our street, Unbound offers a host of quirky gifts with a strong emphasis on sustainable, fair trade and positive gifts. Shoppers will find eclectic gifts for all ages. Some of the most favoured gifts include those from the funky retro ‘Bombay Duck’ brand, beautifully crafted fountain pens from Ferris Wheel Press and even comforting, twee dog gifts for your paw-fect friends from ‘Don’t forget the dog’.
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Wild Design Collective
Founder Bronwyn has created a beautiful oasis where you can discover some amazing gifts for your friends or beloved. Bronwyn’s store has a wonderful collection of jewelry from Irish designers and unique prints from local artists amongst homeware, skincare and gifts . Bronwyn herself has collaborated with many of the artists and creators in her store and when you shop in her store, you give back to the local community and sustainability initiatives as a portion of the profits and commission for many of the items are given as proceeds to local charities and causes.
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The Roughty Foodie English Market
A third-generation business located in the heart of the English Market, which was opened in 1788, Margo and her team at the Roughty Foodie stall offer a personal and warm experience where you can peruse a carefully curated selection of local Cork and irish produce. The team can make bespoke hampers of chocolate, charcuterie and cheeses, soaps and candles, or even a selection of everything. Whether it’s for a best friend or your in-laws, you can be sure that they will adore this gift.
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Kilkenny Shop
The most well-known store on this list, Kilkenny Shop, is a firm favourite amongst visitors, particularly for our international guests with contemporary tastes. Home to Ireland’s largest collection of Irish products, the store has homeware, jewelry, fashion and art gifts to suit all tastes.
Pinocchio’s Toys & Gifts
Tucked away just off Paul Street, you will find Pinocchio’s Toys and Gifts – a traditional toy shop specialising in wooden and alternative toys. The team at Pinnochio’s are passionate about reigniting the magic of play and can help you select the perfect gift for your little ones to unwrap under the tree on Christmas morning.
Nano Nagle Place Design
Shop An unexpected oasis at the heart of the city, Nano Nagle Place is widely loved for its calming spiritual wild gardens, and sustainable foods café, Good Day Deli, but it is also home to the Nano Nagle Design Shop where you can peruse a mix of crafted and designer gifts. Worth a visit on your next trip to the city.
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Winthrop Arcade
This mock-tudor building hidden just off the main street has the most incredible and an even more wondrous interior, snap a few photos and Enjoy some shopping in the stores inside. Visitors can procure a selection of handmade festive truffles from chocolatier Cocoa, purchase the much sought after harry potter themed vintage-style wooden boxes in Best of Buds or choose from a range of ethically sourced natural skincare store ‘Rain’.
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Cork Flower Studio
An independent florist that inspired the city with its colourful bouquets, this little shop has expanded to become a treasure trove of local artisanal products. With a keen focus on Irish products and sustainable gifting, you may find lovely trinkets for your secret Santa or stockings, but we are mostly recommending this for those who are looking to add that little Christmas magic to their home this year. You can usually find the most unusual Christmas decorations and we expect that they will also have their make-at-home wreath packs available to purchase this year given their incredible success last year.
Vibes & Scribes
Of course, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without a good book to curl up with a cup of tea. Vibes and Scribes Book stores on Lavitt’s Quay are the largest bookshops in Cork, offering new, used and pre-loved books. Here, you will find all kinds of literature for avid readers, including a selection of comics and graphic novels, book tok favourites, classics and even a ‘Blind date with a book’ section, where you choose a wrapped novel, solely based on its first line. Select a novel for a friend or family member, we won’t tell if you choose one for yourself too! The craft shop on Bridge street just around the corner from our hotel has incredible crafting kits for little ones right up to expert crafters. Pop in and chat to the team.
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Your Concierge
Our Concierge and reception team can assist you in locating any of these shops, or indeed arranging for gifts to be wrapped or even posted. Simply let us know during your stay and we will be happy to assist.