A Guide To Independent Christmas Shopping in Newcastle

With Christmas just around the corner, Newcastle is a shopper’s paradise when looking for those unique festive gifts thanks to the city’s array of independent shops. From vinyl and vintage to clothing and crafts, uncover the North East’s independent shopping scene for something a little different this festive period and explore the best independent shops to do your Christmas shopping in Newcastle.

Christmas Shopping in High Bridge Quarter, Newcastle

High Bridge Quarter

Looking for something a little different this Christmas? Why not make a stop at Newcastle’s High Bridge Quarter. These charming cobbled streets are known for their fantastic independent shopping as they’re bursting with quirky independent retailers, from fashion and record stores to accessories and collectables, you’ll definitely find something extra special here.

For fashion lovers, check out the uber-cool End Clothing for a mix of unique men’s streetwear or Union for bespoke, limited edition denim and sportswear.

If you need some liquid refreshment after some serious Christmas shopping in Newcastle, take a load off in the Toon’s oldest pub, The Old George Inn. Dating back to the 16th Century, rumour has it King Charles I was once a regular.

Newcastle’s Grainger Town Market & More

Grainger Town, Central Arcade and beyond

Wander over to the Grade I listed Grainger Market; it’s been a go-to for shopping for over 180 years and was originally the place to buy fresh meat and vegetables. While still home to some great food producers, it’s now home to a wide range of independent shopping gems, from florists and jewellers to vintage boutiques and craft stalls - there are even stalls to buy your furry friends a festive gift this Christmas. We recommend you check out Geordie Gifts for a wide-range of bespoke handmade stocking fillers and Yesterday Society for those vintage gems you won’t find anywhere else.

Fashion & Vintage Clothing Shops in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne

Make sure you take a stroll through Central Arcade. Located just on the cusp of Grainger Market, along with a number of local independents, the stunning Edwardian architecture is worth the trip alone. Head out onto Pilgrim Street, stopping in at Leaf Clothing. This family business offers top notch customer service and, with men’s and women’s fashions selected from some of Europe’s newest and most exclusive brands, if you’re looking for something a bit different for the style conscious, it’s definitely one for you.

If vintage retro fashion is more their thing, then pop around the corner to Flip Vintage on Westgate Road. Particularly great for menswear and operating since 1978, Flip imports American clothing and has become well known for its great authentic range of vintage retro fashions, making it one of the greatest Christmas shops in Newcastle for those men in your life who are tricky to buy for.

Second-hand Bookshops in Newcastle

Talking of second hand, if it’s literature you’re looking for, Books for Amnesty, also on Westgate Road, sells a great selection of fiction and non-fiction books, including pre-loved children’s books, poetry, biographies and travel books. What’s more, all profits go to Amnesty International UK, so it’s a good deed and a great gift in one.

Record & Other Independent Shops in Newcastle

Just down from Westgate Road, close to Newcastle train station, Beatdown Records on the corner of Bewick Street and Clayton Street West is a must-visit if you’re shopping for a music lover. It has a great collection of new releases and a huge selection of second-hand vinyl – so you’re bound to find the perfect record, no matter the genre.

On the outskirts of Grainger Town you’ll find Upside Down Presents, one of the best independent shops in Newcastle with cracking cards, gifts and souvenirs! It’s simply bursting with present ideas for your loved ones this Christmas. Their distinctive Geordie twist on all things gift-worthy will keep you inspired and help you make your way down your Christmas gift list.

Planning a Christmas Shopping trip in Newcastle? You’re sure to find something special among the city’s independent shops. Plus, don’t forget that you can get up to a whopping 65% off Northern trains to Newcastle when you book in advance!