Christmas Shopping in Islington: bring home the goods locally in 2011

With November now looming, there are precious few weeks remaining to do that all-important Christmas shopping. Yes, it's going to be Jingle Bells before we know it, and whether you're a Santa or a Scrooge, there's sure to be someone you want (or need!) to buy for. I always think the least painless option is to stay local, perhaps easing the pain with a couple of Islington-centric treats to keep you going (I'm thinking mince pies at Euphorium or a heart-warming drink at Kennedy's) and you won't have far to struggle home...read on for some tips on where to shop for gifts in Islington.

For the home

Islington is a particularly great place to shop for gifts for housproud friends and relatives. Butlers in the N1 Centre already has a full-on festive display (see above!) and has pulled out all the stops with quirky and fun items for the home with a festive theme: I love the Santa and North Pole Penguin sponges in particular, which could either be put to practical use or employed as ornaments on the Christmas tree!

Other homeware haunts include the Home & Pantry, the new indie store on Camden Passage where you can pick up all sorts of pretty bits and bobs for the kitchen, and if you can stretch to their prices, Aria have some beautiful crockery, cushions and other small items alongside their awe-inspiring furniture.

For gadget freaks

Now that it's Game over for Game (at least in Islington; their Liverpool Road store has since become a T-Mobile outlet) it's not as immediately obvious where to go for video games in Islington, but there's still a good supply at HMV and there are some good independents on Chapel Market. If you're looking for phone handsets or accessories, everything you need it in or around the N1 Centre, which now houses every service provider I'm aware of.

For unique people

If you're shopping for the type of person who doesn't want to see brand names on anything, your best bet is to wait until December when the Norfolk Craft Fair comes back to town. A covered market selling jewellery, homewares, body & bath gifts and much more, it's the perfect place to pick up presents you won't find anywhere else. The fair returns to its spot in the N1 Centre on 1st December, and will remain right through until New Year.

For trendy types

Buying for someone whose sense of style is perhaps more attunded than your own? Nieces, nephews and younger siblings perhaps? Fear not: there are plenty of fashion haunts in Islington that are absolutely bang on trend.

First, there is Jack Wills in the large building between the South end of Upper Street and Islington High Street/Camden Passage. You'll find all manner of clothes and accessories here that are currently a huge hit with teens. Just opposite is Joy, which sells a wide range of gift-friendly clothes and accessories along with cute and quirky things for the home, and for those on a budget there is always H&M.