Christmas shopping in Liverpool and the city region isn’t just about finding unique, one-of-a-kind items—it’s about supporting the city’s vibrant community of creators, makers, small business owners and arts organisations.
When you buy from Liverpool’s indie shops, markets, and artisans, you contribute directly to the local economy, helping small businesses thrive.
It’s not always easy to know where to start, but we hope this handy guide will help you find some amazing local, independent artists, makers and businesses so you can buy some incredible gifts when Christmas shopping in Liverpool and the city region this year.
This article features:
- Art’s Markets
- Art Gallery & Museum Gift Shops
- Local Independent Gift Shops
- Experiences and Activities
- Independent Bookshops
- Independent Record Shops
Christmas Shopping at Arts Markets in Liverpool
Sudley Handmade (30 November, 10am – 4pm)
Sudley Handmade market is dedicated to handmade crafts, offering a range of unique, handcrafted items perfect for gifting.
Makers at the Mansion Xmas Craft Market (1 December, 11am – 4pm)
Hosted at the beautiful Mansion House, this market brings together talented local artisans selling handcrafted gifts and festive decorations.
Liverpool Makers’ Bazaar (1 December, 11am – 4pm)
Liverpool Makers Bazaar will be hosting 30 talented local makers who will be exhibiting and selling their unique work directly to the public at The Old Police Station, Lark Lane.
Bluecoat Arts Market (7 December, 11am – 4pm) Free Entry
The Bluecoat Arts Market is the perfect place for Christmas shopping in Liverpool, offering unique crafts and artworks from local artists and designers.
Exchange Flags Twilight Christmas Artisan Markets (Friday 6, 13 and 20 December, 4-8pm)
Exchange Flags Twilight Christmas Artisan Market, set against the backdrop of the historic Exchange Flags, features artisan crafts, delicious food, and live music.
National Museums Liverpool
Christmas Shopping at Liverpool’s Art Galleries & Museum Gift Shops
Liverpool’s art galleries and museums offer more than just inspiring exhibitions—they’re also home to gift shops filled with carefully curated items that make perfect presents.
The following galleries offer an array of gifts to suit various tastes, from exclusive art prints and handmade crafts to unique home decor and everything in between, these shops showcase Liverpool’s artistic talent and make it accessible to everyone. Christmas shopping becomes a joy when you get to mooch around a gallery before hand!
Shop Online or In-Person
The National Museums Liverpool online shop offers a diverse range of unique gifts inspired by art, culture, and history. Explore exclusive museum merchandise, locally crafted products, art prints, books, homeware, and accessories. Perfect for thoughtful presents, the collection includes items celebrating Liverpool’s heritage, iconic exhibitions, and contemporary design. You can also shop in-person at the museums and gallery’s gift shops.
Dot-art’s shop showcases a stunning selection of artwork, perfect for celebrating Liverpool’s creative scene. Discover original paintings and prints, availble online and in the gallery.
The Bluecoat Display Centre shop offers a curated collection of contemporary crafts by exceptional makers. Explore handmade ceramics, jewellery, textiles, and glasswork, alongside unique gifts and homeware. Perfect for those seeking beautifully crafted, one-of-a-kind pieces that celebrate artistry and design.
Tate Liverpool at RIBA North shop has an inspiring selection of gifts that celebrate art, culture, and creativity. Discover books, posters, clothing, jewellery, and homeware. Explore playful and witty designs by David Shrigley, sustainable utility wear by Uskees, and Guerrilla Girls-inspired accessories by Ally Capellino. For children, find award-winning books, art games, and the charming Mildred the Cat collection. With something for all ages, it’s the perfect destination for unique and thoughtful gifts.
Liverpool Biennial’s online shop features a curated selection of contemporary art-inspired gifts, exclusive merchandise, and limited-edition prints. Explore unique items created in collaboration with leading artists, alongside books, stationery, and homeware that celebrate the spirit of the Biennial.
Christmas Shopping at Local Independent Gift Shops
Liverpool is home to a wonderful selection of independent gift shops that make Christmas shopping a joy. From eco-friendly, fair-trade treasures to locally crafted art, these stores offer thoughtful, one-of-a-kind items that reflect Liverpool’s creativity and character.
Homeware, Arts and Prints
Liverpool design studio Dorothy offers a captivating range of prints, products, and artworks that combine creativity with clever design. From iconic music maps and movie-inspired pieces to thought-provoking infographics and cityscapes, each design is packed with intricate detail and cultural references.
The Nest, located in the Royal Albert Dock, is an art and gift shop that showcases the talent of local artists, designers, and creators. Featuring carefully crafted works from the finest local artisans, it’s a perfect spot for customers seeking one-of-a-kind art and beautifully made gifts that capture the spirit of Liverpool’s creative scene.
The Art Quarter, inside The Met Quarter, is home to 13 diverse local artists, each using different media to express their unique vision. This collective offers a vibrant and varied art shopping experience where visitors can explore an impressive range of artwork, from paintings to mixed media creations, all under one roof.
Vintage Emporiums & Antiques
Larks and Red Brick Market are vintage emporiums that delight collectors and vintage enthusiasts with an eclectic selection of unique items. From timeless vinyl records and antique treasures to charming collectables, these marketplaces are brimming with character, offering pieces that carry history and individuality.
Freida Mo’s is a charming blend of vintage finds and delicious bakery treats, making it a perfect choice for unique gift shopping. Their online selection of vintage items offers one-of-a-kind pieces full of character and nostalgia, ideal for anyone who loves retro style and timeless quality. Their gift cards allow you to give the gift of vintage shopping alongside treats from their bakery too.
Christmas Shopping with Unique Experiences and Activities in Liverpool
Why not gift the joy of creativity with vouchers for art classes, dance classes, walking tours, theatre shows and live concerts?
Art Classes
dot art offers a range of creative art classes with vouchers available, making a thoughtful gift for art lovers and those eager to explore their artistic side. Their diverse lineup of courses, including botanical painting, Chinese painting, sketching for beginners, and acrylic painting.
Dance Classes
Discover the joy of swing dance with Merseyswing! These classes are a perfect way to bond with a loved one or bring a group of friends or family along. Group tickets are available, making it easy to share the fun.
Explore diverse dance styles with Movema’s Fusion Dance classes. Free sessions are available, making it accessible for everyone to get moving and embrace the rhythm.
Or, maybe you want to step into the world of tap with Sole Rebel. These beginner-friendly classes are available online for convenience, catering to both adults and children.
Elevate your fitness and creativity with Wired Aerial Theatre. Try their bungee jumping workouts, aerial circus skills, or harness techniques. Workshops and one-on-one sessions are also available for a personalised experience.
Comedy Course
With The Comedy Trust’s Comedy For Beginners Course you can unleash your inner comedian with this six-session course. Perfect for anyone looking to learn the art of comedy in a supportive and fun environment.
Walking Tours
Arts Groupie CIC offers engaging walking tours that bring Liverpool’s rich history, culture, and characters to life. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems, weaving fascinating stories about the city’s past and present. Choose from themed walks such as The Liver Bird Safari, Kitty Wilkinson Heritage Tour, and The Williamson Tunnels Tour, each offering a unique perspective on Liverpool’s heritage. The tours provide an entertaining and educational way to experience the city.
Reel Tours offers a unique way to experience Liverpool through the lens of iconic movies and TV shows. Known for its cinematic architecture and historical landmarks, Liverpool has been the backdrop for productions like Peaky Blinders, Fantastic Beasts, and The Batman. Reel Tours takes you behind the scenes on a journey through these famous filming spots, blending movie magic with Liverpool’s rich history.
Theatre Tickets
Everyman & Playhouse Theatre
The Everyman & Playhouses theatres are known for their eclectic mix of contemporary plays and timeless classics, it’s the perfect place for your theatre-loving friends and family. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit Everyman & Playhouse.
Empire Theatre
Liverpool’s Empire Theatre is the place to discover blockbuster musicals to heart-wrenching dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies. Book tickets directly through their official website at Liverpool Empire Theatre.
Liverpool’s Royal Court
Famed for its locally flavoured productions, Liverpool’s Royal Court is a must-visit. With a blend of comedy, drama, and festive specials, it’s the ideal venue for a night out with a Liverpudlian twist. Secure tickets from their website: Liverpool’s Royal Court.
Unity Theatre
For those who enjoy innovative and new works, Unity Theatre offers a creative space that frequently hosts cutting-edge performances. It’s a hub for new writing and experimental pieces that will thrill any theatre aficionado. Tickets for various shows are available at Unity Theatre.
The Hope Street Theatre
In a more intimate setting, The Hope Street Theatre showcases a diverse range of productions, highlighting local talent and touring performances. It’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate the artistry of smaller venues. Discover upcoming shows and get tickets from Hope Street Theatre.
The Atkinson
Located in Southport, The Atkinson isn’t just a theatre; it’s a cultural oasis. Hosting an array of theatre performances, live music, and art exhibitions, it makes for a wonderful day out. Explore and buy tickets for upcoming events at The Atkinson.
Concert & Cinema Tickets
M&S Bank Arena
Concert tickets to a show at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena make for a thoughtful Christmas gift. From global musicians and bands to unique live performances, the arena offers something for everyone.
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic
From classical concerts and film scores to jazz, pop, and family-friendly events, there’s a diverse programme to suit all tastes. Set in one of the city’s most iconic venues, a visit to the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall offers an unforgettable experience in a stunning setting. Whether it’s a night of timeless music or an exciting live event, it’s a thoughtful way to share the joy of live performance. You could choose to buy tickets for a particluar show or treat someone to a gift voucher.
Cinema Vouchers
The Picturehouse cinema at FACT Liverpool shows an array of arthouse, indie and blockbuster films, in their boutique cinema with reclining seats. You can buy gift vouchers and memberships for the Picturehouse to treat the film lovers in your life.
Independent Bookshops
Liverpool is home to a fantastic selection of independent bookshops, offering something for every reader, whether you’re hunting for rare finds, contemporary works, or classic novels. And this Christmas, why not embrace the festive spirit and shop local? Here’s our guide to some of the best Christmas shopping in Liverpool, with a focus on independent bookshops that make the perfect stop for your holiday shopping.
Liverpool Bookshops
In the heart of Liverpool, News From Nowhere on Bold Street is an iconic feminist and radical bookstore. Known for its passion for social justice, it’s a place where readers can discover thought-provoking works that challenge and inspire. Just a short walk away at The Bluecoat, Aldous Books specialise in antiquarian books, local authors and Liverpool artists
Meanwhile, the Open Eye Gallery Bookshop invites readers into a world of art books and photography, celebrating visual storytelling.
Moving beyond the city centre, Dead Ink Bookshop on Smithdown Road is an indie publishing gem that supports emerging voices and alternative stories, perfect for readers keen on discovering fresh narratives. In Calderstones Park, The Reader offers not just books, but also a beautiful environment for reading and reflection, making it a true community hub for literature lovers.
Additionally, there’s the online bookshop from Writing on the Wall, where diverse voices and thought-provoking stories are just a click away. Shop now to explore empowering reads from the comfort of your home.
Liverpool City Region Bookshops
Literally Books in New Brighton is a hidden gem by the sea, offering a mix of genres to captivate any reader. West Kirby also boasts its own haven for book lovers with the West Kirby Bookshop, a friendly and welcoming space dedicated to bringing stories to life.
So, whether you’re browsing for your next great read, discovering new authors, or picking up a perfect Christmas present, Liverpool’s independent bookshops offer plenty of inspiration. Embrace Christmas shopping in Liverpool this festive season and shop local to support the region’s vibrant creative community. Your purchases help nurture these independent treasures, while bringing joy to your loved ones!
Liverpool Record Stores: Perfect for Christmas Shopping
Liverpool is a haven for vinyl lovers, and this festive season, the city’s independent record stores offer unique gifts that will delight any music enthusiast. From rare finds to classic albums and the latest releases, here’s your guide to Christmas shopping in Liverpool for vinyl aficionados.
In Liverpool city centre, you’ll find a host of unique record stores. Probe Records is an iconic store with a vast selection of vinyl across various genres. It’s the perfect place to find rare records and unique gifts for music aficionados. 81 Renshaw is a beloved independent record store in Liverpool, housed in a building steeped in music history. It offers a diverse selection of new and used vinyl records, catering to a wide range of musical tastes.
Discover a diverse collection of vinyl records from different eras at Dead Air Vinyl. Perfect for collectors looking for those hidden gems. Dig Vinyl, based on the first floor of Resurrection, this store is a haven for vinyl lovers with its eclectic mix of records.
Rough Trade Liverpool is a branch of the famous Rough Trade, known for its diverse selection of vinyl and CDs, perfect for the music lover on your Christmas list. Located within the legendary Jacaranda, Jacaranda Record Store offers a unique experience with its selection of vinyl and live music events. Matsuri Records specialises in Japanese imports and rare finds. Perfect for collectors looking for something different.
Outside of the city centre, Penny Lane Records is a must-visit for Beatles fans and vinyl collectors. Defend Vinyl, on the other hand, specialises in punk, indie, and rock records, this is the place to find something special for the alternative music lover in your life.
Liverpool city region record stores
As one of the oldest record stores in Birkenhead, Skeleton Records is known for its extensive collection of vinyl records. It is a great place to find rare and vintage records.
In Prescot, there is POPin th’ATTIC, a vibrant store with a fantastic selection of records. You can find everything from classic rock to modern hits, making it a perfect stop for Christmas gifts.
Cool Cat Records is located in the heart of Widnes Market, this store offers a variety of vinyl records across different genres. Perfect for finding that special gift.
Shop Local, Shop Independent
By choosing to shop at Liverpool’s independent record stores this Christmas, you’re not only finding the perfect gift for the music lover in your life, but you’re also supporting the creative community of the Liverpool city region. Whether you’re in search of rare vinyl, vintage treasures, or new releases, Liverpool’s record stores offer an exceptional shopping experience that will make your Christmas shopping extra special.
Have we missed anything in this article? Let us know! Get in touch with Clare at clare@culture.org.uk. We strive to make our features as inclusive as possible, so we’re keen to hear your suggestions.