It’s that time of year when we begin to prepare for Festive Season, and for some this includes the planning of a Christmas shopping break. Most are aware that both Glasgow and Edinburgh are ideal shopping locations with fabulous Christmas Markets, boutiques and department stores but Scotland has so much more to offer than the just big city shopping.
Here we look at a selection of other destinations worth a visit across Scotland where you shall find some wonderful and exciting Scottish fair:
Harvey Nichols, Edinburgh
Commencing in Scotland’s capital city, Harvey Nichols is a fantastic festive destination. From stunning window displays to luxury goods, plus a gourmet delicatessen, Chocolate Lounge and the fabulous Fourth Floor Restaurant with outstanding views across the city to the Firth of Forth, it really has everything that you could wish for from this high-end department store.
Princes Square, Glasgow
Continuing with city shopping for the moment, we travel west and no visit to Glasgow would be complete without a trip to one of the most recognisable shopping malls – Princes Square. With its dramatic iron peacock adorned façade greeting you, this boasts an array of luxury stores, including Vivienne Westwood, from across the globe stocking everything from jewellery to clothing to artwork. There is also a selection of eateries for you to choose from.
Hawick, The Borders
Leave the cities behind for now and sample more traditional Scottish wares, then “The Scottish Borders” are a great place to visit. The town of Hawick is known as the ‘Home of Tweed’ and has long been recognized as one of the world’s finest producers of cashmere and knitwear, supplying fashion houses across the globe including Chanel. There are four textile mills and also a museum for those interested in the process of producing these high-end goods and Johnston’s of Elgin offer free guided tours. While you’re in the area you really should schedule a visit The Borders Distillery for your informative tour and you can also stock up on single malt and borders gin.
West Kilbride, Ayrshire
If the arts and crafts are more your interest, then why not take a trip to West Kilbride in North Ayrshire? Known as the “Craft Village” it offers a unique high street experience where you will find converted studios and a local community of artisans and craft makers sell their wares. From hand-blown glass to silver jewellery, toys, paintings and prints, there is something to delight everyone.
The Highland Chocolatier, Perthshire
What would Christmas be without a little sweetness? And what is more special than some of the finest, handcrafted chocolate in the world! This can be found in Grandtully near Pitlochry in scenic Perthshire, where Iain Burnett, “The Highland Chocolatier” is based. Not only can you shop here for sweet creations by an award winning master chocolatier but you can also enjoy a visit to the Chocolate Lounge for a tasting session or to try what is said to be ‘The Best Hot Chocolate in Europe’!
To visit these and many more fantastic Scottish locations in style & comfort, contact us today at info@scotlandschauffeur.com
