Love Local: Indie Shops in Cambridge to Buy the Perfect Gift for Valentines Day
Whether you're treating your other half, your friend, your mum, or yourself this Valentine's Day, be sure to spread the love to your local independent retailers.
To help you out, we strolled the streets of Cambridge to find some of the best places to purchase that perfect gift, from sustainably sourced flowers and unique jewellery, to gourmet doughnuts and artisanal cheese. What better place to get that loved up feeling than the historic streets of Cambridge?
So whether you’re a romantic at heart, or want a gift with difference, Compendia has you covered.
The Flower Project
Using sustainably sourced and grown flowers, The Flower Project on Mill Road is a great way to show your loved one, and the planet, that you care. In true Cambridge-style their selection of fresh or dried bouquets and plants are delivered across Cambridge by bike, wrapped in biodegradable and recyclable packaging.
By purchasing a bouquet of flowers from this eco-friendly florist you will be supporting the community of farmers and local artists and makers that they work with. So at The Flower Project, a little bit of love really does go a long way.
Ark Cambridge
If you’re looking for a gift as unique as your loved one then look no further than Ark Cambridge. As the home of ‘gifts for interesting people’, this beloved Cambridge independent is a treasure trove of gifts with a difference.
From fashion and accessories to home décor and gifts, the store boasts an impressive selection of both established and up-and-coming designers, both locally and further afield. Located at Peas Hill, just off the central Market Square, the black and pink store exterior is as eye-catching as the eclectic mix of colourful and varied items inside.
Crosstown Cambridge
An ordinary box of chocolates not going to cut it? Why not think outside of the (chocolate) box and opt for gourmet doughnuts? Originating in London before bringing their sweet treats to Cambridge, Crosstown is famous for creating the world’s first sourdough doughnuts. Using ingredients sourced both locally and from around the world, these award-winning doughnuts are a treat for the eyes and for the taste-buds — guaranteed to delight that sweet-toothed person in your life!
Lilac Rose
Located on Bridge Street, this charming independent fashion boutique sells an eclectic mix of women's clothes, jewellery and accessories. Every item at Lilac Rose is chosen with care and attention, meaning you’d be hard-pressed to find a gift that didn’t feel special.
The team at Lilac Rose works hard to source unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else on the highstreet. They are also constantly adding to, and updating, their collection, ensuring there is always something new to explore in-store.
So if you’re looking for a gift that has a premium feel but affordable price tag, then Lilac Rose is the place for you.
The Cambridge Cheese Company
For all the cheese-lovers out there The Cambridge Cheese Company, tucked away on All Saints Passage, is the place to sniff out.
Specialising in artisanal, award-winning cheese, this hidden gem stocks a huge range of nearly 200 rotating, seasonal cheeses. With experts on hand in store, who know the story behind every cheese, the team can help you assemble the perfect cheese board for a romantic evening with your loved one.
Placing sustainability at their heart, The Cambridge Cheese Company uses producers who share their key values regarding sustainability, animal welfare and quality produce. They buy from ethical and principled suppliers, reuse much of their packaging, and work with their partners to deliver zero emission local deliveries.