Shop Local: Your Ultimate Guide to North East Christmas Gift Ideas

November has arrived and with it, the festive hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping returns to the high streets of Newcastle and Gateshead.  

With the first whispers of 'Black Friday deals' beginning to float around and the pull to shop online for Christmas gifts, it is tempting to head to the big brands but there are some great ways to buy your festive presents from North East independent shops and businesses - as well as enjoy a day out in the toon! 

Surprise your friends, family and other halves with something a bit different this Christmas and at the same time, support local shops, cultural venues and restaurants. Choose from gifts, promises of future experiences in NewcastleGateshead and explore more of what's on offer in Newcastle and Gateshead from local businesses. 

We've picked out some of our highlights, so read on for our guide to Christmas shopping in NewcastleGateshead...

Christmas Markets are BACK and we can't wait to wander through countless stalls while sipping mulled wine and browsing the unique gifts and treats on sale. 

Newcastle Christmas Market returns from 16th November and will have a distinctly North East focus. Local traders will set out their festive stalls and have a brilliant range of items perfect for gifts, treats, local beers and stocking fillers.

The weekly Sunday Quayside Market is another brilliant location for a day out and a chance to buy some specifically North East gifts and products.

If it is festive food shopping that is top of your list, then hustle your way along Armstrong Bridge on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month. Jesmond Food Market run its local-focused event twice a month along Armstrong Bridge and have a season of festive and wintry editions with their Christmas special on Saturday 7 December and Saturday 21 December from 10am - 3pm. 

Wander the aisles at Grainger Market to sock up the festivities and pick up some local beers, sweet treats and gifts. The well loved market will be open on Sundays in the run up to Christmas.

For the art lovers out there - populate your Christmas list with a fabulous range of original art, ceramics, homeware and jewellery by local artists and available to buy from The Biscuit Factory in Ouseburn. 

Treat your friends and family to a totally unique gift from local, independent retailer BALTIC Shop who also have an online presence selling vouchers, prints, mugs, Geordie souvenirs, 'Bowie' baubles to adorn your Christmas tree, fun jewellery and quirky gifts with an arty focus.

Browse Ouseburn at the Ouseburn Open Studios on the 23 & 24 November 2024. Explore 14 venues as they open their doors, offering a unique opportunity to step into the world of talented artists and designer-makers.Discover an incredible array of affordable, original creations, including paintings, ceramics, sculptures, jewellery, furniture, prints, and more—something to delight every taste.

Image from BALTIC Shop.

Fenwick Newcastle invite you in (once you have marvelled at their Christmas Window!) to shop until you drop this Christmas, and with a dedicated Christmas floor - there are luxury gifts, quirky presents and fun stocking fillers to keep everyone happy. There's a great selection of North East inspired gifts too so head down to the lower floor with your Christmas list. 

If it's cheeky gifts with a North East flavour then Geordie Gifts in Grainger Market or Upside Down on Dean Street are great, independent shops to check out.

Shop from across all nine of the North East museums and galleries managed by Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums when you browse their new TWAM online shop. From fine jewellery and crafts offered at Laing Art Gallery to the essentials for walking Hadrian's Wall found at Segedunum Roman Fort, plus much more. This is a brilliant way to support the region's fantastic museums at the same time as giving great Christmas gifts.

Award-winning outdoor attraction, Beamish Museum has an online gift shop which is packed with excellent and unique Christmas gift ideas which reflect the exhibits and collection on show at the museum. From Edwardian-inspired spiced apple bath salts and sweet treats from the museum's famous Jubilee Confectioners onsite sweet shop to Beamish’s own version of Monopoly, hand printed Christmas cards and an exclusive bauble - take your pick from a range of wonderful presents.

Give the gift of unforgettable experiences this Christmas with New Adventures, the perfect place for celebrating the unique charm of North East England. Each experience opens the door to a whole host of exciting activities, from surfing the waves at Tynemouth and enjoying cult classic films in the ancient walls of Newcastle Castle, to crafting artisan bread at the historic Blackfriars restaurant. These one-of-a-kind experiences showcase the beauty of the local landscape and the warmth of its people, offering a truly authentic way to connect with the spirit of the region. Share the magic of adventure and create lasting memories for your loved ones this holiday season.

For the food lovers in your life, NewcastleGateshead offers an array of delicious gifting options that celebrate the city’s rich culinary scene. From artisan treats to immersive dining experiences, there's something to satisfy every palate. Consider gifting a voucher for a fine dining experience at one of Newcastle’s renowned restaurants, such as House of Tides or Blackfriars, where history and gastronomy meet. For hands-on foodies, cookery classes in breadmaking, patisserie, or traditional North East dishes make thoughtful and engaging presents. Find classes here. Pair these with locally produced delicacies—such as handmade chocolates, craft spirits, or a selection of cheeses from independent suppliers—to create a foodie gift they’ll savour long after the holidays.

Fenwick Food Hall is a must-visit location for anyone looking for 'foodie' Christmas gifts. Browse the racks of high-end food and drink from local suppliers and luxury brands. 

Why not gift a city break to your friends, family or loved ones? There are so many reasons to visit Newcastle and Gateshead so why not treat a loved one or best pal to a city break in NewcastleGateshead in 2025 so they can see for themselves? With hotels, self-catered apartments and B&Bs to suit all budgets, a long weekend or a staycation in the North East can be on the cards for 2025. Choose from a range of hotels including Maldron Newcastle which is ideally suited if arriving in the city by train as it is centrally located, or Motel One, also in the heart of Newcastle and even welcomes dogs. Alternatively, The Vermont or INNSiDE by Melia both provide a luxurious experience with beautiful views of Newcastle Quayside (INNSiDE) and Newcastle Castle (The Vermont)

Treat the culture lovers in your life to an unforgettable experience with gift vouchers to NewcastleGateshead's venues. From the dramatic productions at Northern Stage and the experimental works of Live Theatre to the comedy showcases at Tyne Theatre and Opera House, there's a stage for every taste. Surprise them with tickets to renowned performances at Sunderland Empire or the timeless elegance of Theatre Royal Newcastle. For music enthusiasts, The Glasshouse offers a diverse lineup, while the Utilita Arena promises electrifying live entertainment. Give the gift of cinema to those film buffs in your life with vouchers for Tyneside Cinema, so they can watch the anticipated releases of 2025 in Newcastle's s leading independent cinema. 

These vouchers give your loved ones the freedom to choose their favourite shows and create lasting memories in the heart of the North East's cultural scene.

A gift that keeps on giving! Treat your family and friends to a year-long experience with an annual pass to brilliant attractions across the region including Alnwick Garden and Alnwick Castle (closed for winter until spring 2025), Newcastle Castle, Beamish, English Heritage or National Trust.

St James' Park is one of Newcastle's most iconic landmarks - choose from a range of gift vouchers from Newcastle United including a Rooftop Stadium Tour which will give any football fans the chance to go behind the scenes at the Toon's much-loved football stadium.