The ultimate St James’s gift guide, handpicked by local experts

From cheese to cashmere, scents to stationery, St James’s is brimming with gift inspiration. So we spoke to some of the neighbourhood’s most iconic locals to get their insider advice on the best festive finds – and some of their favourite places to eat, drink and be merry too, so that you can treat yourself while you’re shopping!  

Tis the season to treat that special someone

When it comes to gifting in St James’s, Fortnum & Mason is a name that repeatedly comes up, and rightly so. Kathryn Sargent, the world’s first female Master Tailor says: ‘Whether it’s an assortment of biscuits, a box of chocolates or a bottle of Sparkling Tea – their selection is perfect for gifting.’

Devi, Founder of Bija Coffee in St James’s Market, agrees with Kathryn: ‘It’s such a timeless London treasure - from their iconic hampers to beautifully packaged teas and chocolates, it’s always a joy to shop there, especially during the festive season when the store feels truly magical.’ On Devi’s list is also Waterstones Piccadilly, calling it ‘one of London’s most atmospheric shops, I love wandering through the shelves, it’s a thoughtful place to find something personal.’

Fillippo, Head Oysterman at Wilton’s suggests a walk down Jermyn Street to Paxton and Whitfield, a store that earns his glowing review: ‘I would head straight to those legendary cheesemongers. The quality and variety of cheeses there are absolutely incredible,’ making this historic shop a must-visit for the dairy connoisseurs in your life.

If you’re after a gift for someone who loves to host, Executive Chef Ramael Scully of Scully restaurant has just the place: ‘I’d gift them some fancy kitchen equipment for their home. You cannot go wrong with a SMEG gift’. When it comes to stylish kitchen gifts that combine practicality with stunning design? We’d trust a chef’s recommendation any day. Or should we simply say: yes chef!

Mandkhai, founder of her namesake luxury cashmere brand, endorses luxury perfumer Floris, which she loves for its ‘beautiful heritage and craftmanship.’ She also invites shoppers to visit her own boutique, featuring unique goat to garment products from Mongolia: ‘Our cashmere pieces make timeless and thoughtful gifts.’

Now time for sipping and savouring the season

Gifting complete, how about treating yourself? Whether it's a festive tipple or indulging in mouthwatering menus, our locals know just the places – and here's where they'd go to raise a glass:

Fillippo, of course, invites you to sup oysters at Wilton’s: ‘It’s such an iconic spot, timeless, elegant, and the service and food are always impeccable. No matter the occasion, it always feels very special.’ Since 1742, this restaurant makes for the perfect spot for a long lunch or evening celebrations steeped in tradition.

Master Tailor Kathryn Sargent suggests some expertly-crafted cocktails at The Stafford, pâté en croûte at Maison François or a spot of indulgence at local institution 45 Jermyn Street which has ‘recently celebrated their 10th birthday and always provides a buzzy atmosphere.’

If you’re in the mood for some comfort food with an innovative twist, Chef Scully knows just the place: ‘I’d head to Fallow for a festive Sunday roast. Jack Croft and Will Murray (co-founders and chefs behind the restaurant) are fantastic. It’s a great spot for all meals of the day, but the roast really is something special.’

And finally, for a place that combines curated books and an elegant bar, Devi suggests Maison Assouline: ‘It makes for a memorable spot for celebratory drinks.’

A full curated round-up of gifting favourites

Of course there’s more to be found wandering the boutiques and arcade in St James, so here are all the local favourites for gifting this season; whether you have a cocktail connoisseur, gourmet explorer or trend-setter on your list:   

For the culinary curious:

• Fortnum & Mason: For classic hampers, teas and biscuits that really capture the festive spirit

• Prestat: For beautifully boxed artisan chocolates – a place that serves their signature truffles to Royalty

• Whittard of Chelsea: Unwrap a selection of cosy tea and coffee gifts that will elevate their next night in

• Berry Bros. & Rudd: Choose from exclusive and vintage wines or pick up a cocktail kit

• Paxton & Whitfield: From subscriptions to hampers, head to this historic cheesemonger for Britain’s finest artisan cheeses.

For the art and wellness lovers:

• Truefitt & Hill: Just the place for quality pampering and grooming essentials

• Taylor of Old Bond Street: A family-run business that offers all kinds of grooming essentials and accessories

• Floris: An icon on Jermyn Street since 1730, create bespoke perfumes for a special someone

• Royal Academy of Art, Gift Shop: A must-visit for quirky stationery and thought-provoking art books

For the outdoorsy and fashion-savvy:

• John Smedley: For handcrafted knitwear made in England since 1730 – a firm (and cosy) yes from us

• Showcase: With regular luxury sample sales, pick up amazing brands for incredible value

• Snow Peak: The spot for sturdy outdoor equipment and camping gear that you can rely on

• Cubitts: One for the design-lovers, head here for handcrafted eyewear

So whether you’re ticking off your Christmas shopping list or toasting to the season ahead, be guided by the locals and let St James’s be the backdrop to your most memorable moments this season.