Cambridge small businesses

Local Businesses

Our city of Cambridge, has over 250 independent businesses, providing us with a variety of amazing products. From delicious eateries, cafes, bars to unique clothes stores, art galleries, market stalls and bookshops, in Cambridge we are truly spoiled! It is true to say that our city centre relies heavily on these small businesses, but as we all know this year has been tough for all, especially those independents. On the run up to Christmas this year, there’s no better time to support our local community and help it thrive.

Supporting independent businesses is a great act of kindness. By doing so it brings an array of benefits such as boosting the local economy, cutting your carbon footprint as well as increasing our city’s employment. Together we are stronger!

These advantages are often the reason why many of us choose to shop locally, especially in the run up to Christmas. The idea of being able to get a more personalised experience is quite appealing. So if you are fond of details, special messages or personalised items, shopping independent will be your shopping paradise.

Christmas Gift ideas from small businesses

ARJUNA

Essential cruelty-free and environmental friendly products from Mill road to your home. Beyond food, Arjuna sells a wide range of body care from fluoride-free toothpaste to sulphate free shampoos, deodorant, henna, plant-derived hypoallergenic washing-up liquid, laundry liquid and much more. If you are looking to buy for someone who is a green consumer or leads a vegan lifestyle then this would be a great start.

THE HAUNTED BOOK SHOP

This book shop specialises in children’s and illustrated books. It is located down a quiet passage in the heart of the City Centre, in the shadow of the ancient church of St. Edward King and Martyr. This booksellers are a registered trader for second hand and antiquarian books, it is the perfect spot to buy for those who would cherish a rare  or special book.

FULL CIRCLE

Stride towards a better future lowering your lifestyle impact by shopping at full circle, a completely zero-waste shop. From clothing, dental care, personal hygiene, everyday household to refill food and reusable items. Full Circle also has gift vouchers or loyalty cards available for purchasing. Another great spot for those wanting to pick up a considerate gift.

CHOCOLAT CHOCOLAT

For all those sweet toothed individuals out there, Chocolat chocolat is your go to! From chocolate Christmas bouquets, personalised advent calendars to secret Santa gift ideas. They have it all! Power your Christmas up with some irresistible chocolate.

SERPENTINE SWAP

Who said second hand and vintage clothes aren’t an option? At Serpentine Swap you can find a lovely variety of clothing items for sale in their cosy shop adorned with plants from Small and Green (another amazing local business). You can opt to shop in store, or alternatively through their instagram profile or Depop account. All items suitable for local delivery. Take a look and see whether you might opt for a recycled item instead this year.

TRADITIONAL PUNTING  COMPANY

Maybe you are thinking of giving an experience as a gift this year. After a difficult year of lockdowns and restrictions, get outside and enjoy the wonderful scenery Cambridge has to offer. Our Punting Gift Voucher is a truly unique Christmas gift. Giving someone the opportunity to make some memories all whilst relaxing on a traditional wooden punt through some of the most iconic views the city has to off. You can even add a picnic to the experience or personalise the voucher itself. These Gift Vouchers can be used all year round and purchased with our friendly sales team on 01223782306.

Every small purchase, makes a big difference!