There’s few places that boast tree-lined streets, great transport links and bakeries with queues out the door, but the south Manchester suburb of Didsbury ticks all the boxes.
This leafy Greater Manchester village is also well-known for its impressive restaurant and bar scene - from buzzy brunch spots and trendy wine bars to cosy pubs and acclaimed restaurants. And, if you’re in the market for some Christmas presents - the suburban spot - and its interlinking streets - have you covered.
Once a largely rural area, the area has blossomed over the years, creating a strong community feel, which is strongly embodied by its independent shops. Not only is there a clutch of fashion boutiques and jewellery stores to pick up festive pieces, but delicatessens and a cheese shop for those last-minute hampers.
Amongst the trendy bars and up-and-coming restaurants you’ll find everything from butchers and bakeries to book shops and florists - all on hand with some much-needed gift inspiration. Below you can pick through some of Didsbury’s best shops for grabbing this year’s Christmas presents.
McQueen Independent
Offering cool Scandinavian wares, this trendy boutique, which set up shop back in 1994, has become the go-to for those capsule wardrobe staples. With two brick and mortar stores - one in Didsbury, the other on Chorlton’s Beech Road - here you’ll find a range of sustainable garms from coats and jackets to dresses and jumpsuits, plus a range of home gifts such as notebooks and journals, as well as cards and gift wrap.
677 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6RA
Giddy Goats Toys
Buying children's gifts can become a bit of a nightmare, especially if you're heading to the big shops, however this traditional children's toy shop makes the experience a lot more enjoyable. A treasure trove of wonderful toys, books, puzzles and games, they cater for children of all ages and were even featured in last year's 2021 Small Biz 100 list. Gifts here span babies' toys and games to puzzles and books for older kids.
2 Albert Hill St, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6RF
The Edit
It's hard to walk past this fashion boutique without being immediately compelled to pop in for a browse. Selling affordable, fashionable women's clothing, gifts and accessories since 2016, ranges span dresses and knitwear, to denim, tees and shoes. You can also pick up fragrances, bags and purses here - and if you check online some items are currently up to 50 per cent off.
748 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2DW
Flourish
The award-winning houseplants company, based in Didsbury and Manchester city centre, is a must-visit - not only for seasonal plants and trees but gifts for plant lovers. The Didsbury branch feels particularly festive with Christmas trees, holly and mistletoe lining the doorway. Rest assured you'll find everything and anything you're after in this shrine to plants and the team are on hand to guide you through the best plant care - whatever you decide to purchase.
29 Barlow Moor Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6TN
Kjole
Looking for something a little bit unique or quirky? Kjole, tucked off the high street, might just be the place for you. Stocking no fewer than 19 clothing brands, this is the spot where you're most likely to find that New Year's Eve outfit, whether it's a velvet midi or forest green silk blouse. Elsewhere, their jewellery collection features some standout pieces - from teardrop pendant necklaces to gold-plated bracelets with semi-precious stones .
29 Barlow Moor Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6TN
E J Morten Booksellers
This quaint, family-run independent bookshop has been open since 1959 and is the place to go if you're after new or historic second-hand titles. Specialists in new, rare and antiquarian books - the latter forms an integral part of the business. If you are specifically interested in viewing antiquarian books for sale, you just need to make sure to call in advance to arrange a private viewing.
6 Warburton St, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6WA
The Cheese Hamlet
You'll often see queues out the door at this snug cheese shop on Wilmslow Road - and for good reason. Purveyors of all your essential deli items, be it jams, meats or their carefully selected line of cheeses, this is a great shop for picking out items to build a hamper. On top of 180-200 cheeses, you'll find homemade bakery items from pork pies, Italian and Spanish charcuterie and bread sourced from a well-established, local, award-wining bakery. It's rounded off by a selection of ambient products, fine wines and ports.
706 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2DW
Harriet & Dee
This boutique jewellers tucked away in the village is a great spot to pick up a special, one-off piece this Christmas, whether its a tiny bee necklace or a necklace from the natural stone collection. As well as jewellery, the shop offers some great inspiration for stocking fillers for a range of people. Whether it's quirky gifts such as Manchester-themed coasters or practical items like bottle openers and jewellery holders, there's plenty to explore.
8 Warburton St, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6WA
Zo and Co
Home of all things unique and beautiful, this little high street shop is a A-Z of gifts, cards and balloons for all special occasions and celebrations. Walk up to the store this weekend and you'll be greeted by a very festive window display featuring Christmas soft toys, decorations and balloons for the big day. The shop's carefully curated Christmas collection covers festive children's books, chocolates and a wide selection of cards, wrapping and accessories to give you presents that extra edge.
748 Wilmslow road , Manchester, M20 2DW
Didsbury Village Bookshop
This book palace is hidden away behind The Art of Tea café, making it a handy spot for a brew and some gift buying. This charming space, with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, is a haven for book lovers, especially those after second-hand titles. Open 9am-10pm every day, it's a great place to rummage around for some pre-loved gems at great prices.
Inside The Art of Tea 47, Barlow Moor Rd, Didsbury
Steranko
If you’re venturing slightly further from the village and grabbing a festive tipple along Burton Road, Steranko is also worth a visit. Offering fashionable pieces in both Menswear and Womenswear, it’s a must-visit if you’re looking for a unique item for your loved one or the latest sneaker release from footwear brands Karhu, Veja and Saucony.
172 Burton Rd, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 1LH
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