Looking for Christmas inspiration? Try these unique Scottish gift shops

SCOTLAND’S independent stores sell a wealth of inspiring gift ideas for Christmas – we suggest you pay these a visit before you hit a high street chain
By ALISON CAMPSIE
Published 16th Nov 2015, 17:20 BST

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

Leakey's Bookshop in InvernessLeakey's Bookshop in Inverness
Leakey's Bookshop in Inverness

The Glasgow School of Art Shop

An amazing array of gifts spanning generations are available at the Glasgow School of Art Shop: from Mackintosh-inspired trinkets, models and jewels to some cutting-edge design pieces by GSA graduates. Otherwise, you can get scarves, bags, mugs, books and even soap at this bright and quirky store.

Object of desire: Hexagon necklace designed by Ruth Hollywood, £80

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Hexagon necklace (Glasgow School of Art, 80 pounds)Hexagon necklace (Glasgow School of Art, 80 pounds)
Hexagon necklace (Glasgow School of Art, 80 pounds)

164 Renfrew Street, Glasgow, G3 6RF, 0141 353 4526, www.gsashop.co.uk

Curiouser and Curiouser, Edinburgh

Curiouser & Curiouser has a great mix of homeware, textiles and beauty products. They also stock unique and humorous prints and cards.

Object of desire: The costume drama tea towel with mini portraits of Hugh Grant, Sean Bean and Colin Firth in their finest Regency wear under the catchline ‘Dishes I’d Rather Be Doing’, £10

93 Broughton St, EH1 3RZ, Edinburgh, 0131 556 1866, www.curiouserandcuriouser.com

Lovely Things, Dundee

Dundee has some fine independent shops and Lovely Things on West Port is one of the city’s best. Set up by former interior designer Lynne Duffus in November 2011, it sells a fine mix of modern, vintage and stylish bits and pieces that would improve any home.

Object of desire: LSA Elinan Liqueur glasses, £23 for two

37 Dock St, DD1 3DR, 01382 690464, www.lovelythingsonline.co.uk

Leakey’s Bookshop, Inverness

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A second-hand bookshop in a converted Gaelic church, Leaky’s has been drawing in customers with the smell of real fires and old volumes since 1979. Escape the Christmas shopping blitz and lose yourself in this parish of the written word.

Object of desire: A 1940s print of a Dewar’s whisky ad, approx £40

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Church St, IV1 1EY, 01463 239947, www.facebook.com/LeakeysBookshop

Valhalla’s Goat, Glasgow

An Aladdin’s Cave of goodies for those who like their tipples well crafted and full of quality with a huge range of beers, wines and rare spirits. A shop that reminds you that Christmas just isn’t for kids (though the shop’s strapline – “liquid treasures” – is wickedly child-like).

Object of desire: London Gin gift box with two glasses, £40

449 Great Western Road, G12 8HH, 0141 337 3441 www.valhallasgoat.com