Gift Guide: Shop local in Cambridge and Suffolk this Christmas

Looking for one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts? Tick off your list with these independent retailers

Cuckoo Clothing
Offering “a more thoughtful approach to living and shopping”, Cuckoo is the place to go for an inspired curation of clothing and accessories.
Say the team: “Our boutique offers carefully selected clothes in fabrics that are kind to both you and the planet. Our collections are designed with flattering, stylish shapes to suit every body type, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable.
“These timeless pieces are beautifully crafted, meant to be worn and cherished again and again. With a focus on effortless style, we select clothing that’s easy to wear and easy to love, offering you sustainable fashion without compromising on quality.”
Location: Burwash Manor, New Road, Barton
Website: cuckooclothing.co.uk
Telephone: 01223 262123

Explore 4x4
When was the last time you tried something for the first time? The outdoor activity and survival adventure specialists at Explore 4x4 offer an exhilarating range of activities, from clay pigeon shooting to 4x4 off-road driving. Or maybe test your hand at crossbows, archery, axe, knife and spear throwing, and much, much more?
Located on the stunning Elveden Estate, also home to an award-winning restaurant, country inn, food hall, home and garden shops, Explore 4x4 offers gift vouchers priced from £30 and valid for a full year. Add the team: “Our enthusiastic and professional instructors will guide you through experiences that you will remember for a lifetime!”.
Gift vouchers from £30, pre-booking essential
Location: The Courtyard, Elveden Estate, Elveden
Website: explore-4x4.co.uk
Telephone: 01787 320640

Mill Tye Gallery
A unique destination for contemporary art, sculpture, pottery, gifts and cards, Mill Tye is a small independent gallery and arts centre. It’s housed in the old ‘Baker’s Mill’ building, a beautiful brick-built mill; one that’s been converted into a light and airy studio-exhibition space.
If you’re looking for that special addition to your home? Or that distinctive Christmas gift? Something you couldn’t buy on the high street or via Amazon and other ‘all things to all people’ platforms?
“You can find those exceptional arts and crafts here at the Mill Tye Gallery gift shop,” say the team. “Welcome in to browse our original paintings, limited-edition prints, sculptures, handmade glass and ceramics, handcrafted bags, and a range of objects of beauty. . .”
Open from Thursday to Sunday, 10.30am to 4pm.
Location: 3 Cornard Mills, Mill Tye, Great Cornard, Sudbury
Website: milltyegallery.co.uk
Telephone: 01787 376796

Scotsdales
Scotsdales is passionate about offering the best possible plants and products; a commitment to quality that's lasted since 1968, with the opening of their flagship store.
This season be inspired as you step into Scotsdales' immersive festive shopping experience. Whether you’re dressing the home for the yuletide, searching for the perfect gift, or simply wishing to indulge in seasonal treats, you’ll find it all and so much more in store.
Don’t forget to complete the experience with a visit to the Sunflower Café for refreshments, a slice of something tempting or a cosy, seasonally-inspired dish served fresh.
David Jones leather-look short shoulder bag in khaki, £29.99
Locations: Great Shelford (CB22 5JT), Fordham (CB7 5LQ) and Horningsea (CB25 9JG)
Website: scotsdalegardencentre.co.uk
Instagram: scotsdalesgardencentre

Tuddenham Mill
It’s the season of giving! So why not treat your loved ones to a voucher for Tuddenham Mill this Christmas? Available either as handmade vouchers or in a swift-to-send digital format, they can be spent on everything from drinks and dining to rooms.
“A unique confluence of place, people, heritage and creativity makes Tuddenham Mill the award-winning destination it is today,” say the team. “Choose to spend vouchers on lunch at The Tipi On The Stream; dining in the Upstairs At the Mill restaurant, famed for its tasting menu; a visit to one of our hot tub nooks; or even an overnight stay in a luxury loft suite.”
All vouchers are redeemable against rooms, food and beverage purchases
Location: High Street, Tuddenham, Newmarket
Website: tuddenhammill.co.uk
Telephone: 01638 713552

Knights Park x Turing Locke Festive Market
Wrap up cosy and get into the Christmas spirit at Cambridge’s Turing Locke on Saturday, November 30, when it hosts the annual Knights Park pop-up festive market.
In partnership with The Hill Group, there will be live music from The Rockabellas, spiced mulled wine, handcrafted mince pies, speciality hot chocolates and street food stalls.
Located in the Knights Park community in Eddington, spend the day browsing for unique crafts and gifts, Christmas decorations and supporting local business. The event will run noon to 4pm.
Tickets are free and available to book here: tickettailor.com/events/thehillgroup/1416095
Web: lockeliving.com
Email: turingbookings@lockeliving.com