12 Days of Blogmas: Day Two - Inners for Shoppers
Amidst the wave of consumerism that engulfs us every Christmas, there's a message that's gaining momentum: shop small, shop local, and shop responsibly. While national spending habits and statistics on waste generated each December paint a gloomy picture, we as individuals can choose how we spend our hard-earned money. Supporting small businesses in our community not only strengthens the local economy, but also gives us a sense of connection. In the spirit of the season, let's take a virtual tour of my beloved home town of Innerleithen's High Street and explore fantastic local businesses you can support this Christmas, and beyond. I am not sorry to say that this blog is all about promoting local business, and spreading some positivity. A wee slice of positivity is a wonderful thing to let into your day!
Food and Drink
Innerleithen has a vibrant café scene, with plenty of options for coffee lovers. Number 1, Haus, Loulabelles, Pie, Caddon View, The Golfie and more all offer a variety of espresso-style coffee, along with vouchers to make any easy gift.
While Innerleithen used to have four butchers, there is now only one, Shaws, which is sure to be busy in the run-up to Christmas. John Adam Bakery, a neighbour of mine, is also worth checking out for their delicious baked goods - flapjack and multi seed bread the favourites in our house. Gareth Easton's 'Pie' is another noteworthy spot for excellent baking and coffee, and, of course, Caldwell's is a must-visit for their superb ice cream that has been produced by the family for four generations. The Allotment is our fruit and veg emporium (and Post Office), with the finest selection of cheeses around. And where would we be without the Co-Op, and in particular its £1.75 finest Salt and Vinegar crisps?
When it comes to dining out, Innerleithen now has a growing selection to choose from. The Traquair Arms has been the go-to eatery for a few years, but Out Out in the former Corner House has emerged as a strong competitor. For curry fans, Saffron is a top-notch choice that is both intimate and popular. We also have a Chippy and Chinese Takeaway, but sadly lost Nashys earlier this year. His ludicrous burgers are much missed.
For a pint, The Top Pub (St. Ronan’s Hotel) is really the last traditional, public bar on the High Street and offers a selection of live music year-round. Durty Brewing, an excellent taproom, is also worth checking out for something a bit different. Innerleithen also has a number of members clubs and the Tow Bar at the caravan site, meaning you can still have a very decent stag or hen do pub crawl here!!
Gifts
Living next to The Hub on the High Street has been a hoot for us, and the shop itself a game changer for the community since its opening five years ago. It's a prime example of a successful retail space that has become so much more - truly a community hub. Robert Smails, the time capsule Victorian printer, has recently given its gift shop a major revamp. The Framing Gallery, which houses an impressive selection of stylish prints and gifts, is located next door to Smails. Across the street, you'll find Rachel, The Flower Bee, who has brought a blast of sunshine to the High Street for the past few years, and is an inspiration in her career path. Solo Gallery has a varied selection of artworks and gifts, and provides a great showcase for talented Scottish artists. Lou Lou's Vintage Emporium is a must-visit spot for antique enthusiasts, especially those seeking vintage cashmere. Additionally, two antique shops, the TAVO Thrift Shop and a second-hand bookshop provide plenty of unique and creative gift ideas. Finally, for the whimsical, Innerleithen actually boasts a fairy shop (Droppoy Dandelion), perfect for the Borders, with its many fair stories...
Sport
When Tam Ferguson's Bikesport opened back in 1995 you would never in a month of Sundays believe that we would have four bike shops in Innerleithen. But here we are! I-Cycles, the oldest one, has been joined in recent years by Tweed Valley Bikes, The Bike Shop and Ride Innerleithen. Throw in Ridelines, who base their award winning coaching business out of the original Bikesport shop on the High Street, and you have proof positive of Innerleithen’s status as MTB capital of Scotland. For women's sporty clothing and accessories, as well as coffee and cakes, you should definitely check out FINDRA, which is celebrating its 9th anniversary this weekend.
Hair & Beauty
While I'm not an expert on hair, having started to lose mine at 17 years of age, I am duty bound to point out the High Street has three hairdressers, as well as an outstanding barber named John. John has taken on the modest, but important, job of shaving my head on many occasions and always does an incredible job. Now, you may think that it is a simple task, but believe me, it's not, and many barbers have failed to deliver. However, John is the best in the business! Farrans the Chemist has a good selection of cards and gifts, in addition to the wonderful pills and potions that keep us all on an even keel. We also have the privilege of deep tissue massage and beauty treatments from Heather at Hand and Heart. Heather is getting married in the New Year and the happy couple have, winningly, chosen to celebrate the reception at the Durty Brewing Taproom, now there’s a great example of shopping local! Finally, I must mention Scallywags. Dogs need to look good too, and owners Becki and Bev would kill me if I didn’t mention them!!
Innerleithen is a great destination for a memorable Christmas shopping spree, with loads of options to choose from without sacrificing quality. Beyond the usual shopping scene, you can also discover distinctive handcrafted products made by skilled artisans and makers.
It's true that some items may not be available locally, and Amazon and other online mega brands are go-to for many of us. I'm not oblivious to this reality, living in cloud cuckoo land. Nonetheless, if this blog nudges at least one person to pursue local buying options, instead of a bigger chain, then the brief time I took to write this was certainly worth it. I have focused entirely on Innerleithen, but the same principle extends across the country and beyond.
Finally of course, because it is my blog and I am duty bound to do so, you can of course give a thoughtful and unique gift with a TVB Tours Gift Voucher. Available in any amount you chose, and could be the perfect gift for a special person in your life.
Happy shopping, see you in a couple of days for the third day of Blogmas!
