Here in Yorkshire, local businesses keep our family community and character alive, so it’s important we support them in any way we can. After an unprecedented time following the Covid-19 pandemic it’s especially vital we build back, celebrate and shout about our independent North Yorkshire businesses in the run up to Christmas and beyond.
At Yorkshire Escapes, we lie at the heart of the beautiful area meaning we’ve sampled delicious regional delicacies, filled our fridge with fresh produce and visited quirky local markets, cafes and individual shops, so we feel it’s only right we share some of our favourites so you can shop local and shape the community around you too.
Headingley Farmers Market
Winner of a Community Spirit Award, the Farmers Market of the Year at Headingley Farmers Market is not to be missed. Offering a broad selection of the finest local produce, from tempting baked goods, fresh fish and specialty cheese right through to homemade preserves and herbaceous plants. This monthly market brings locals together through events and live music showcasing the best talent around. You’ll also be able to enjoy a number of specialist stalls for rustic pies, sweet-smelling coffee, hand-poured chocolates and more. A great place to build those Christmas hampers!
The Yorkshire Soap Company
Partners Marcus and Warren were Inspired by everything, from artisan sweet shops to the travelling circus, to create the unique independent business that is The Yorkshire Soap Company. Adopting a truly magical retail experience, stepping into their shop feels like you’ve entered a new world where you can let your imaginations roam free. Offering fresh deli soap bars to novelty soaps there’s a fruity, floral or opulent alternative for everyone in the family. Perfect for gifts or injecting your favourite fragrance into your home or space, The Yorkshire Soap Shop also provides a range of hampers, wrapped soaps and home scents. Shopping locally never smelt so good!
Dog & Bone Vintage
Dog & Bone is a handpicked vintage fashion and lifestyle business based in the historic city of York. Owner Nic handpicks every individual garment for both the store and online from across the world, so you can find some completely unique pieces. Whether you live for a classic floral print or love to get your hands on some affordable designer labels, you’ll love this retro style Yorkshire shop. What’s even better, all items are sourced through the global textile recycling market, and saved from landfill. That’s a win-win for us!
Little Saffrons
Little Saffrons is a small independent shop nestled in the famous Shambles, York. Renowned for the friendliest customer service around, you can shop all the wonderful curios, from the delights of Beatrix Potter merchandise to quirky characterful signs and ornaments, you’re sure to find a treasure amongst their forever growing collection. As Little Saffrons is not online it makes their physical store all that more special. A truly unique experience it has a magical touch which fits in with it’s historic surroundings.
Boggle Hole
Boggle Hole Ltd is run by Northallerton-based husband and wife team Andrew and Melanie Turner. Fun and full of character, Boggle Hole showcases everything handmade and handcrafted, while celebrating the beautiful county of Yorkshire. Boggle Hole elevates Yorkshire makers, crafters, artists and designers under one roof so you can enjoy the best of talent there is to offer. Completely authentic, if you’re looking to shop locally then you’ll find over 1,500 products in one place that have all been hand-designed right here in Yorkshire.
Jackson’s of Cracoe
Jackson’s is a family run business which has had a place in the hearts of many locals for over 30 years. The shop offers a wide range of confectionery, meats, cheese, gifts, homemade preserves, wines, spirits and everyday household necessities. If you’re looking for refreshments on your travels, then the quaint tea room provides a collection of tasty treats with seasonal specials that are sure to get your mouth watering.
Whether you’re a tourist or Yorkshire resident yourself, everything from the local clothing boutique to the corner cupcake bakery relies on the support of local customers to keep business booming. The support of the community means a great deal to small-business owners too, as every purchase goes towards paying their staff wages and putting food on the table for their families. So, join Yorkshire Escapes shopping locally this Christmas and beyond!
