Cromarty leaves it late for Christmas shopping extravaganza with tempting festive offer on Black Isle
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BUSINESSES in a small Ross-shire community have joined forces to offer a late night shopping extravaganza.
And retailers in the Black Isle town of Cromarty believe they offer visitors the chance to avoid large crowds in line with the latest advice on the coronavirus crisis.
On Wednesday (December 22), Cromarty’s unique collection of independent traders, all within a two-minute walk of each other, will keep their doors open until 8pm – later if demand is high.
The streets will sparkle with festive lights and the now traditional Advent Calendar window displays.
Organisers believe it makes for a stress-free experience where it's possible to leisurely browse for gifts and festive provisions.
They say that in recent years more and more people have been drawn to the small Black Isle town to do their Christmas shopping, citing originality of goods on offer, the charming, friendly atmosphere and the desire to support local.
Shops taking part include:
Ingrid’s House – for Scandinavian interiors, decorations, gadgets and gifts
Calluna – bespoke and fashionable clothing, accessories and jewellery
Gardiner & Gardiner – antiques and curiosities
The Emporium – books, Fairtrade toys, cards
Emma Nightingale Glass – hand-crafted Highland glass
The Cheese House – Dutch and Scottish cheeses and accompaniments
The Post Office – festive ornaments, chocolate, stocking-fillers
Sutor Creek Deli – Scottish gins and liqueurs, specialist food items
Visitors can also top it off (or start the evening) with supper at The Cromarty Arms or The Royal Hotel, or with a seasonal take-away pizza from Sutor Creek.
A spokesman said: "Throughout the pandemic local residents have discovered that almost everything they need can be sourced within the town. This Christmas they extend an invitation to others to discover how easy, and enjoyable, that can be."
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