At The Great Cornish Outdoors, a Christmas Gift List is well overdue. I can’t figure out why I didn’t write one before, but there we go.
I’ve got to admit, it proved to be a challenge because there’s so many amazing creatives and independent businesses in Cornwall. It was hard to know where to start and then it was doubly difficult whittling this post down so it wasn’t too overwhelming. How much is too much?
So just for you, I’ve put together a Cornish Christmas gift list, sharing ideas from some of my favourite Kernow based brands and businesses.
I hope this present guide gets some ideas flowing as well as bringing your attention to some of the first class, award winning products and brands we have in Cornwall.
Atlantic Blankets
You can find Atlantic Blankets in Perranporth but many Cornish independent coastal retailers stock their blankets.
Taking inspiration from the coast and sea, Atlantic Blankets produce beautiful blankets to make those special coastal days memorable. All blankets are designed in Cornwall, are 100% wool, and come in a selection of coastal inspired colours.
Atlantic Blankets have a good range of picnic blankets (like mine), bed blankets (probably my next purchase), kids and travel blankets.
They’re tasteful and cosy. and make a great Cornish Christmas Gift.
Bonbi Forest
Lovely Lee is the artist behind Bonbi Forest, home to all her cheery artwork. Lee’s designs are bright and uplifting.
You can find them on pins, scarves, cards, jewellery and prints. I find myself smiling when I look at Lee’s Instagram, her items would brighten up a corner of any home, or outfit.
It’s good to know that Lee maintains ethical in her approach and business. Where applicable, all products are fairtrade. Her scarves, for example, are printed on fairtrade fabric. Plus, Lee makes some items to order, meaning every item is a true Cornish original.
Colwith Farm and Distillery
Colwith Farm and Distillery are the region’s first ever plough to bottle distillery. With five generations of potato farming behind them, they literally dig up the potatoes in their fields and make wonderful spirits.
Colwith Farm don’t buy in their base spirit either. They make their own Aval Dor vodka on the farm and this is used to make their amazing, award winning gin.
They’re a totally economical Cornish business too. Botanicals are sourced on the farm and they have their own clever water supply. Who knew drinking gin or vodka was so good for our planet?
In terms of a Christmas gift, Colwith Farm and Distillery run tours and tasting for £15, or you can have a masterclass and craft your own gin. Failing that, how about a gin making kit (pictured below)?
You can check out all the offerings from Colwith farm at their distillery shop. They also run events throughout the year.
I’ve been following Huer Cothing Co. on Instagram for a few years. When I first thought about writing a Christmas Gift List for 2019, they instantly popped into my head and were the obvious choice.
Huers Clothing are based in Padstow. Ideas for this Cornwall based clothing company started forming in a pub in 2014 and they haven’t looked back. (Further evidence that many great decisions are made in pubs.)
Huers pride themselves on offering the people of Cornwall and beyond quality clothing at an affordable price. Their hats are ever popular, and with adult and junior sizes available, they are the perfect stocking filler.
I also like the Polventon and Constantine jumpers. Both are good versatile staples to see you through winter and into Spring. Great for winter walks or using as an extra layer on the beach in the summer.
Penn Boylan Ceramics
If ceramics are more your thing, check out Marazion based Penn Boylan Ceramics.
You can find anything from egg cups to jugs here, available in different designs. Ceramic designs are inspired from Penny’s Cornish coastal walks. Why not mix and match? Or you could have one statement piece for your home.
Christmas shopping can be hard work, especially when the ideas have dried up. Once you look around though, Cornwall has lots to offer.
If you’re more interested in Christmas presents for runners, or those who are active, you may want to check this post out.