The Best Last-Minute Christmas Shopping Spots in Manchester

If you’ve clicked on this blog, the chances are you’re only just beginning to think about your Christmas shopping. The more high-stress individuals around you might be getting on your back, begging you to go with them to Albert Square, or trying to drag you over to the Trafford Centre.

 

But we know what you’re up to, and we like your style. We say shop smart, not hard; with the correct approach, the minimum effort can yield maximum rewards. If you know where to go to beat the queues, it doesn’t matter when you go. So without further ado, here is our top 5 of great Christmas shopping spots in Manchester away from the hustle and bustle of the main markets.

 

1. Village Greens Community Coop – For the ultimate Christmas hamper

If you want to collate an unforgettable hamper for a friend (or for yourself – we won’t tell anyone), Village Greens is more than worth the short journey out of the inner city. In fact, a 20-minute trip from Church Street to the Coop is most likely longer than the journey their produce takes from the fields to the store – it’s all locally grown and sourced near Manchester, right down to their organic ketchup. And we can’t say we’re completely sure, but we think they sell the most eco-friendly toilet paper in the Northwest.

 

 

2. Bags of Flavor – The best vintage clothes store in Manchester

Ah, clothes. Where would we be without them every Christmas? They’re the ultimate last-minute get out of jail free card when it comes to shopping – a perfect gift for all ages. And Bags of Flavor, situated a whole two minutes away from our Church Street aparthotel, has an uncanny ability to stock the exact kind of piece you’re looking for every time. Looking at some of the jackets currently available on their Instagram, we think the Gallagher brothers would have been regulars.

 

3. Piccadilly Records – Vintage vinyls and classic music merchandise

Count the number of musical genres you can name. Now add three hundred. That’s how many different sections there are at the Piccadilly Records vinyl store. Every trip to this timeless place is a delight, and the staff are as helpful as they are knowledgeable on music. And if you’re not buying for a vinyl lover, do not fear – they sell a huge range of antique posters and printed fabrics as well.

 

 

4. Nordic Muse – own-brand affordable jewellery

Worried you’re becoming that friend with a reputation for underwhelming presents? It’s time to go big and pick up some – yes, you guessed it – Scandinavian jewellery. Nordic Muse, a short tram ride from the city centre, is one of the most authentic goods stores around, selling true native garments with unmistakably sleek, minimalist designs.  It’s a real celebration of Manchester’s multicultural roots.

 

5. Fig and Sparrow – the most aesthetic gifts in Manchester

With a name that sounds like a pub from Harry Potter, the Fig and Sparrow is one of the most likeable little shops in all of Manchester. Despite its central location – just on the corner of Church Street – it often doesn’t get the attention it deserves because it doubles up as a café. But it is secretly the perfect Christmas shopping spot, with not only a spread of great present ideas but also a whole wall dedicated to immaculately designed cards, wrapping paper and gift bags.

 

Whether you’re in Manchester for a night or a month, Supercity’s Church Street Aparthotel is the ideal place to stay for all types of travellers. In the heart of the city’s vibrant Northern Quarter, we offer relaxing suites with ultra-flexible service, giving you full control to shape your experience. Book now with our limited-time winter offer.