Bristol is a treasure trove of independents - here are some of our favourites. Pick up some unique Bristol gifts for Christmas in one of our many recommended shops.
Independent Shops on Gloucester Road
Bristol’s Gloucester Road is often described as “Europe’s longest street of independent shops” – so where better place to start a blog about Bristol’s best independent shops than on its most famously indie street?
Iota
Iota has been a Gloucester Road staple for over 20 years. Selling everything from prints to clothes to homewares and other goodies, it’s the perfect spot for something a little bit different. Whether it’s a gift for someone or you’re looking to treat yourself, you’ll definitely find something left of the mainstream in this Bishopston favourite. Take a look at the iota website for more info.
U studio
USTUDIO are a curator and creator of art-led and well-crafted, illustrative or graphic greeting cards, lifestyle and homeware products.
Since opening their Bristol design studio in 2023, they’ve been designing and collaborating with artists and illustrators to create paper and lifestyle products for 1000s of shops all around the world.
Their Gloucester Road shop is a treasure trove of cool stationery, greetings cards and other homeware products – perfect for gifts for those stylish people in your life. Find out more on their website.
Fox & Feather
Operating from their Gloucester Road store since Spring 2012, Fox & Feather offer an alternative to chain store shopping, showcasing the best men's and women's fashion brands from across Europe and beyond.
In addition to ageless wardrobe essentials, Fox & Feather also boast an impressive homeware collection with a carefully curated range of scandi-inspired homeware and interior accessories, from across Europe and from smaller local makers.
Find out more about opening times – or visit their online shop on their website.
Ottowin
Ottowin are a clothing shop with a difference, selling local goods from independent sustainable artists and designers.
Footwear is made in-store using traditional techniques – plus visitors can also browse clothing, beauty and homeware products.
Visit the Ottowin website for more information on the team, their vision and their shop.
Independent shops in Clifton
Home of Georgian terraces, cobbled streets and cosy little boutiques, there are loads of cute little independent shops in Clifton Village and beyond.
Pod
The Mall has been home to gift and lifestyle company pod (and their beautiful and inventive displays!) since 2001. They stock all sorts of things from independent and better-known brands, including home and kitchenware, jewellery and accessories, bath and body, partyware, stationery and books. They also have a whole range of gift ideas for everyone – plus there’s a section dedicated exclusively to children. Visit their website for their online shop and details on opening hours etc.
Truce
Truce is newer to the scene than some of the other indies in Clifton – and what an exciting addition! Stocking a curated selection of modern design pieces, their shop sells everything from British homeware and Scandinavian statement furniture, to home scents, accessories and menswear. Visit them online here.
The Guild
This staple has been a feature on Park Street for years. Officially called ‘The Bristol Guild of Applied Arts’ but known locally simply as “The Guild”, it’s an independent department store and art gallery. Selling a range of goods from stylish and interesting furniture to clothes to greeting cards and homeware, it’s the perfect place for something with that flash of Bristol personality. Visit their website for opening hours.
The Bristol Artisan
Situated close to ‘The Downs’, The Bristol Artisan is a curated space for contemporary design and craft, supporting independent makers from Bristol and beyond.
With a range of ceramics, jewellery, homewares, lighting, clothing and art work, it’s a great spot for a browse while shopping for gifts. Visit their website for a peek at their full collection.
Independent Shops in Central Bristol
Cooshti
Since the early 90s, Cooshti has been Bristol’s go-to for independent streetwear. This Park Street store is locally-owned and run by a friendly and knowledgeable team.
One of the UK’s longest-independents in the field, their team have access to some of the best and most exclusive products as they become available. So, if you’re looking for some street cred (or Premium Sneakers, Denim, Casual & Contemporary Menswear & Womenswear and Accessories), give Cooshti a visit.
Blues store
Another Park Street store, Blues Store is an independent creative outlet offering a selection of mens and womens clothing, publications and curiosities from around the world.
Their product mix is excitingly eclectic – and they’ve even got their own radio on soundcloud…Visit their website for more.
Frankly
Looking for something sustainable? Based in Wapping Wharf, Frankly sells thoughtful ethical and sustainable gifts from brands that give back. Each brand and their supply chain has been given the Frankly seal of approval as being in keeping with their vision for sustainability.
Take a look at their website to find out more about their vision and browse their catalogue of unusual gifts.
Fig1
Also situated in Wapping Wharf, Fig. 1 is an independent home and gift shop that aims to promote unusual items from small producers as well as fair trade, recycled and sustainable products.
With a long-standing interest in the ethics of business, their collection includes many fairly traded products filled with colour and boasting innovative design. Visit their website for more.
Special Mention
Prior
Nestled in Quaker's Friars, Prior is more than a shop. It’s also a not-for-profit creative hub, workshop space and gallery. Showcasing work by 150 sustainable designers (most of whom are Bristol-based), Prior aims to bring a sustainable and community-driven shopping experience to the commercial, fast fashion and frivolous retail district of Bristol.
Find out more on their website.
Mon Pote
South of the river and close to the city centre, Mon Pote is a lifestyle and homewares shop based in Bedminster. Developed from an online store with regular pop-ups, Mon Pote stocks the best in Scandinavian design.
Browse their products and find out more about the store at their website.
Independent Design Collective
Independent Design Collective is a craft-based gift shop located in the vibrant area of Southville in Bristol, featuring and promoting designers and makers from the local area. IDC is run by Chitra Tarling, the creative force behind Karve Design, itself a Bristol-based craft and design business.
The shop features over 40 different designers and artists, and regularly updates its collection, so there is always something new to discover. Visit their website for more info.
