GIFT LIKE A CHAMP
The Essential Guide to buying gifts in and around Birmingham
Buying gifts is a torturous experience for most men. Either we wait until the day before and then panic-buy the first thing we see or alternatively play it safe. The problem with safe though is socks are practical but predictable, whilst nobody needs new dressing gown or slippers every year. Luckily for you, Birmingham and the surrounding areas are an absolute treasure trove with a wide range of unique gifts for all occasions. Here are 10 of the best.
Black Country Museum Shop – By order of the Peaky Blinders, we command you to check out the shop at the Black Country Living Museum. Flannel granddad shirts, waistcoats and flat caps by Morrall’s Gentleman’s Outfitters – originally a Dudley clothing and accessories store dating back to 1928 – allow you to mimic the sartorial elegance of Tommy Shelby, making it an excellent gift for any fan of the popular BBC gangster drama.
The Belfry Hotel & Resort – Surrounded by 500 acres of countryside, The Belfry offers an idyllic romantic getaway just 20 minutes from Birmingham city centre. Perfect for an anniversary, indulge in a relaxing spa day with an extensive menu of treatments and use of facilities such as fire and ice biothermal rooms, swimming pool, whirlpool and fitness studios. Be sure to book one of their tranquil spa packages to include an overnight stay.
Eureka Kitchen – A cooking class at Eureka Kitchen (formerly Simpsons Cookery School) is undoubtedly the greatest foodie gift of all. Under the expert tutelage of chef director Luke Tipping, guests learn how to prepare a three-course menu that is worthy of Birmingham’s oldest Michelin-starred restaurant. The best part of all is sitting down at the Chef’s Table afterwards to enjoy your culinary creation over a glass of champagne.
The Workshop Below – With some of the most unique lighting, furniture and ceramics found in the city, The Workshop Below proves that sprucing up your home doesn’t need to be dull. The store specialises in inventive lamps with an urban twist and customers are encouraged to create their own individualistic design. Their reasonable price range makes these lamps the perfect housewarming gift for first-time buyers.
Connolly’s – This family-owned independent store has been devoted to sourcing the finest bottles of wines from around the world since 1976. The team frequently travel to different wine regions to discover the best vineyards and ensure all wines meet their own high expectations. Their relationship with local vintners also allow Connolly’s to stock wines that don’t typically export meaning you won’t find them anywhere else.
Shakespeare Distillery – Founded in 2015, this boutique distillery in Stratford-upon-Avon specialise in producing small handcrafted batches of exceptional gins inspired by the Tudor period. Choose from one of three flavours – rhubarb, mulberry or Stratford which combines authentic Tudor garden botanicals. Alternatively, book a class at their Gin School to create your very own unique bottle.
Signed Memorabilia 4U – Their extensive collection of exclusive one-off items offers sports and entertainment enthusiasts the unique opportunity to own a piece of history. Whether it is a favourite musician or a sporting icon, Signed Memorabilia 4U has one of the largest selections of signed memorabilia in the UK and is sure to have the perfect match for what you are looking for.
Verity Milligan Photography – Framed prints by this award-winning Birmingham based photographer are sure to enhance any living room wall. Verity’s stunning collection includes landscape shots from Lake District, Peak District and Scotland, but for us there’s something quite heart-warming about seeing the familiarity of the Bullring or St Paul’s Square in all its aesthetical beauty.
Anita Harris Art Pottery Ltd – Stoke-on-Trent has long been famous for its potteries and ceramics having been home to established names such as Wedgewood, Clarice Cliff and Spode. However, the city has a new icon with Anita Harris producing stunning handmade and hand painted collectable ceramic art using bespoke designs which means no two pieces are ever the same.
Bassetts Pole – This extensive adventure park is mostly famous for its world class paintballing experience but it also offers a wide range of other adrenaline-fuelled outdoor activities such as quad biking, axe throwing, rifle shooting and survival bushcraft. Their vouchers make the perfect gift for dad, brother, best mate or anyone who is a bit of a thrill-seeker.