There’s nothing quite like Christmas shopping on the Isle of Wight. The lights, the lovely local atmosphere and the plethora of independent shops selling charming gifts that are as unique as the person you are buying for. So whether you’re pounding the pavement on the high street or exploring the variety of villages we’ve given you a quick ‘one stop shop’ look at the Island’s shopping fare.
The towns of Newport, Ryde, Shanklin and Yarmouth
With a huge shift towards online shopping, our high streets have never needed us more. The county town of Newport has a buzzing weekly market with local food stalls selling tasty treats that will keep the family happy through Christmas, Boxing Day and through the ‘tween time’. The high street has beautiful jewellery stores such as Theodosia, guaranteed to put some sparkle in your stocking. Dragonfly on St James Street is packed with quirky and cool gifts from salt lamps, crystals and essential oils perfect for aromatherapy.
Time your Christmas shopping with Newport’s annual lights switch-on. This year it is being held on 19th November where there will be live entertainment, music, shops offering one time special offers, a Santa’s Grotto and an artificial ice rink which is festive fun for the whole family. In the words of Buddy the Elf “I thought maybe we could make gingerbread houses, and eat cookie dough, and go ice skating, and maybe even hold hands.”
The town of Ryde (also known as the gateway to the Island is home to both Wightlink’s FastCat and the Hovercraft) so it’s the perfect stop for day trips to the Isle of Wight. It is home to the renowned beauty and skincare specialist Liz Earle – ladies will love you when giving this great gift. Wander up Union Street and step back in time at the Victorian arcade… if quirky vintage items are what you are looking for, you’ve found it! A must shop for all Christmas enthusiasts has to be The Christmas Imaginarium… think Harry Potter meets Santa’s workshop, in a word it’s magical!
On the west side of the Island is the historic market town of Yarmouth. Packed with independent shops as well as a whole host of coffee shops and restaurants. Grab a festive hot chocolate from No1 Coffee Shop, and browse the myriad of independent stores.
The seaside towns of Sandown and Shanklin are always a hub of activity at this time of year. Wander along Shanklin Old Village and delve into Jurassic Jims for the budding palaeontologist in your life. Jingle Bells is always worth a visit too, an amazing shop that is open throughout the year and completely dedicated to all things Christmas. The snowglobes make sensational seasonal gifts.
Which Island Villages to visit this Christmas
Don’t overlook the villages around the Island. Godshill, near the centre of the Island is a must visit. Reminiscent of an image from a chocolate box, this quaint place is easily missed. Filled with independent stores, a chocolate shop and the locally famous Old Smithy (with cream cakes that will impress) you can while-away a couple of hours.
Arreton is home to the Island’s largest arts and crafts centre and it is so much more than that. There’s a festive buzz about Arreton Barns. Artisans and artists have been working like Santa’s elves to bring you the finest selection of handmade gifts on the Isle of Wight. From stunning hand-blown glass at Sculptglass and Isle of Wight Studio Glass to delicate jewellery all handmade by the teams at Thomas P Cochran and The Craft Cabin. Adorn your walls with exquisite pieces from Art at the Barn and Chad Powell Gallery and Shop.
Explore the treasure trove that is The Corn Exchange for great gifts that will have the whole family smiling on Christmas morning. Plus there’s so much more to see and do… including Santa making an appearance from 19th – 24th December). The sweet toothed among you will love a visit to Sweet Memories. Visit this traditional sweet shop with walls lined with jars of pear drops, humbugs, bon-bons and more. Indulge in handmade fudge featuring Christmas favourites; spiced rum and ginger, clementine, Christmas pudding and party time!
Don’t miss a stop in Niton (south of the Island) to visit Tregear Pottery where ceramics are their passion or make your way north-east and get into the festive spirit with a visit to The Mermaid Bar in Pondwell, home of the Isle of Wight Distillery to grab a gift set ideal for the G&T lover in your life.
