Perfect Christmas Gifts for Men right here is Harpenden

There are only 68 Harpenden shopping days left until Christmas and this year I am determined not to leave everything until the last minute.  But I know, as always, that I will struggle to find perfect and original gifts for the men in my life!  So, this year I am going to be prepared and try and find inspiring gifts locally...there won't be a pair of cufflinks or a tie in sight!   

A Wine Tasting Experience

The Hertfordshire Wine School is an independent wine education company who run local wine tastings and wine courses for people who enjoy wine and would like to learn more. Their wine courses and wine tastings focus on the enjoyment of and learning about wine in a relaxed and informal setting.  The Wine School was established in 2010 by David Rough, a resident of Harpenden.  The most popular courses, so far, have been the 8-week introduction to wine, and the Saturday with Champagne and lunch course at Darcy's in St Albans.   Visit their website to find out more; and if you can't decide on which course to book they also sell gift vouchers. 

A Bottle of Wine

Sticking with wine you could always buy a decent bottle as a gift; but making the perfect choice is always a challenge.   If, like me, you find browsing the wine shelves a daunting task give Harpenden's Rollings Wines a visit.   Owners Liz and Paul Rollings have recently collected an award at the International Wine Challenge Awards Dinner; they were recognised in the category of Regional Merchant of the Year for Central England South.  They are a friendly independent wine merchants and importer, with a wealth of knowledge and advice.  They have over five hundred wines in stock from all the major wine producing areas of the world; so however little you know about wine, Liz and Paul will be on hand to help you find the perfect bottle for that someone special!

Tickets to a Show

The Harpenden Public Halls plays host to a wide range of stars throughout the year and tickets to a show are always a well received gift.  If know someone who likes a good laugh comedians Richard Herring and Rob Deering are coming to Harpenden in February and March.  Or, for something a little more 'sophisticated', Hazel O'Connor, a singer songwriter and actress, will be on stage on Sunday 11th March.   With lots more acts yet to be announced there are sure to be tickets to suit everyone's tastes (go online to find out more.)

Something for the Garden

If you know a keen gardener how about buying a small tree, a rose bush or a garden ornament.  Harpenden has three garden centres to choose from; Townsend Nursery is a small Nursery which has a greenhouse filled with a wide range of plants.  Pinewood is more than a Nursery and has a wide range of plants, large and small, and garden accessories such as pots and ornaments.  Finally Bridge Valley Nursery, which is in East Hyde- just 5 minutes from Harpenden, is grow a huge range of seasonal basket and container plants along with perennials.  Bridge Valley specialise in basket and container refills and customers are welcomed to pop along and get advice or simply drop off a basket or tub to be filled.  And for some smaller gardening accessories try Town and Garden, Harpenden High Street, who have some lovely pieces.

Hopefully you are now feeling a little more inspired and will be able to find perfect gifts right here on your doorstep!