Love to Shop Local At Christmas

Swap the stress of endless online scrolling for a real-life day out and a shopping experience that feels festive and special. Perth is renowned for its independent shops with over 150 speciality businesses spread across its compact city centre.

From stylish boutiques to gorgeous gift shops and delicious delis, you’ll find something for everyone on your list (including yourself!) with price points to suit all budgets. You can meet the owners, chat to the experts, and enjoy the warm, personal service that comes from shopping with local businesses.

Some of the city’s favourites are stalwarts of Scotland’s independent shopping scene with decades of trade and an army of loyal followers behind them. From diamond rings to vinyl records and hampers stuffed full of festive food these are the legends you need to make your list complete.

With great train and bus connections throughout Scotland and a central location making it a straightforward drive, this Christmas, choose joy, choose community, and choose to shop local in Perth. 

We all know that shopping local makes all sorts of magic happen. By spending your hard earned cash with an independent business you're making a real difference to the people who live, work and raise their familes right here in Perth.

Which is pretty amazing in itself. But what's in it for you? So much more than you might imagine.

1. Find something a little different. Discover original gifts, unusual finds and carefully chosen collections you won't necessarily find on the high street.
2. Enjoy a more personal shopping experience. Meet the people behind the shops, ask questions and get genuine recommendations from people who know and love what they sell.
3. Discover quality and craftsmanship. From handmade gifts and artisan products to beautiful homewares and speciality food and drink, independent shops often place real value on quality.
4. Make Christmas shopping real again. Forget endless online scrolling. Browse at your own pace, enjoy the festive atmosphere and make a day of it.
5. Vibrant streets with lots of choice. Independent shops give places their personality. Shopping local helps maintain the variety, character and individuality that make our town centres worth visiting.

Creativity runs through Perth like a beautifully spun thread. From independent studios and galleries to makers, designers and craftspeople, this is a place where traditional skills and contemporary talent come together every day.

As Scotland’s first UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art, Perth is recognised as part of a global network of places where creativity shapes culture, communities and visitor experiences. For Christmas Shopping that means opportunities to discover unique handmade pieces, meet talented makers, and experience markets that celebrate craftsmanship in all its forms.

Of course, as home to the original Farmers Market in Scotland, Perth also boasts an amazing choice in food and drink producers. Perth Farmers Market is so popular, it holds two events in December, ensuring everyone is stocked up with gifts, treats and enough Christmas spirit to make wrapping a breeze! 

As well as all of this, you will also find relaxed brunch spots and cosy tearooms, independent restaurants and stylish wine bars all adding to the city’s lively and welcoming atmosphere from morning coffee through to evening dining. And for the party people, we recommend staying a little longer and enjoying some post-shopping cocktails or a night or two in the city.