This year has been like no other for small businesses across the region, with the coronavirus pandemic and national lockdowns crippling even larger companies like Arcadia. 

In these trying times, shopping locally and supporting independent businesses has arguably never been more important. 

When you shop small not only are you choosing to buy great products but you are also supporting the livelihoods of real people across the region. 

There is great value to be found in shopping at artisan shops both online and on the high street, with a range of handmade, high-end products with a personal touch. 

Here are a few of the wonderful independent businesses in Swindon that should be on your radar this Christmas and beyond: 

Holly Robinson Jewellery 

Where: Shop online 

Swindon Advertiser:

Holly Robinson specialises in providing a personalised approach to every client searching for a unique gift for their loved one.

Working with only the finest ethically sourced diamond and precious metals, Holly ensures each design is created especially for you.  

Holly Robinson said: "It's so important that we cherish the businesses in our local economy. 

"By supporting small businesses you are helping local families and keeping the morale and motivation in the economy.

"It's been a really hard time for small businesses this year and it's more important than ever to rally around and support them."

Her jewellery includes rings, wedding bands, earrings and more. 

It's Toy Time 

Where: 31 Newport Street, Old Town, Swindon

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image courtesy of It's Toy Time).

This family run business was founded by James Marsham whose aim is to bring "a smile to children's faces". 

He started this world of toys with the goal to get a traditional toy shop back on the high street and bring that much loved memory and feeling back to as many people as he could.

The gorgeous toy shop is a magical world like no other, with fun at the heart of the shop there are hundreds of toys to choose from and shopping here is a wonderful experience for all the family. 

Every toy and game has been hand-picked by the team at It's Toy Time to bring your children an experience centred around fun whilst also teaching them a range of skills whether that be numbers, shapes or just being more social.

To shop online visit their website.

Something Different Gift Shop

Where: The Brunel Centre, Swindon SN1 1LF

Something Different is a family-run gift shop next to the Card Factory in The Brunel Centre. 

Truly offering something different to other shops across the country. From bath bombs, to jewellery, salt lamps and more there really is something for everyone. 

With spectacular service, the friendly staff are always on hand to help you choose a gift for your loved one or every something special for yourself. 

For more information go to their website.

The Incredible Comic Shop 

Where: The Brunel Centre, Swindon SN1 1LF 

Swindon Advertiser:

Swindon's only comic book store is jam-packed with the latest American-imported comic books and graphic novels.

They also stock a range of action figures, statues, T-shirts, art, games and more. 

With lots of great gift ideas don't miss this store on your Christmas shop.

Visit the website for more. 

Funko POP Shop

Where: 49 Cricklade Road SN21AA  

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image - Funk POP Shop)

Specialising in Funko pop culture collectibles this store has more than 2,000 vinyl figurines and bobble heads in stock. 

Highly collectible and with lots of different characters to choose from they are a great gift for any pop culture lover.

Find out more online.

Holmes Music

Where: 21-23 Faringdon Rd, Swindon SN1 5AR 

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image - Holmes Music)

This family run music shop has been part of the Swindon for more than 50 years and is the largest music store in the region. 

Selling guitars, drums, amplification and more there is everything a music maestro needs under one roof. 

They also offer a range of services including full service packages and free local delivery. 

Visit the website for more.

Ellotreats

Where: Shop online

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image - Ellotreats)

This gorgeous artisan bakery sells the most delicious goods that are sure to brighten up your day.

Individually made cakes, brownies, cookies and more are available across the region from Ellotreats as well as special seasonal boxes to treat your loved ones.

Moonraker Books

Where: 42 High St, Royal Wootton Bassett, Swindon SN4 7AF

Swindon Advertiser:

With more than 25 years experience in the book trade, Des Longhurst and his eldest son Adam run Moonraker Books in Wootton Bassett.

Moonraker specialises in end of lines and overstocks from UK Publishers. They have more than 1000 titles available to order, over a wide range of genres. 

New titles are added on a regular basis so there really is something for everyone.

Find out more online. 

Studley Grange Craft Village

Where: Hay Lane, Swindon SN4 9QU 

Swindon Advertiser:

The wonderful Craft Village at Studley Grange is a wonderful day out for all, no matter your age. 

With a range of units you can shop for gifts or get crafty yourself making something wonderful for your home or a loved one. 

There are a range of boutiques as well as a quilting shop, ceramics store and much more. 

Visit the website for more information.

Beeble

Where: Shop online.

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image courtesy of Beeble).

Beeble is a fantastic Christmas gift for honey and whiskey lovers alike. 

The business began with one hive in North Wiltshire 10 years ago, committed to keeping that hive healthy. From their first hive they had enough honey for themselves and to give some to friends.

However they quickly realised it was difficult to avoid wasting the honey that was stuck to the frames taken from the hive.

To avoid this waste, they soaked the frames in whisky - this turned out to be the first ever batch of Beeble Honey Whisky and they've not looked back. 

Since then they have gone on to win multiple awards, recently being awarded the Great Taste award by the Guild of Fine Food. 

Lick the Spoon

Where: Shop online.

Swindon Advertiser:

(Image courtesy of Lick The Spoon)

An excellent gift for your loved ones Lick The Spoon has a range of gorgeous chocolates available this festive season with a Christmas chocolate box and a vegan chocolate box. 

Founded by husband and wife team Diana and Matthew Short the Lick the Spoon story has many influences from the early days of the Bristol Chocolate industry to the heady nostalgia of the Hyde Park hotel in the 1950s.

Their chocolates have been enjoyed by two Prime Ministers, members of the Royal family, and the stars of television, film, and West End Shows.

This small family run business connects closely with cocoa farmers and chocolate makers in Madagscar and supporters of Raisetrade.

All of the chocolate is handmade and specially made, orders for Christmas will last into the new year.

Will you be shopping locally this Christmas? Let us know in the comments below.