Alternative

Alternative, gifts and décor in Keswick since 1985

Alternative is a family-run business based in Keswick, in England's Lake District, dedicated to selling gifts, home décor and souvenirs from the area. The company presents itself as a family-owned and managed business that has been operating since 1985 and that, according to its own description, has worked from day one to build a reputation based on customer service and product selection.

Its offering is built around the idea of a single shop for a wide variety of gifts: the company states that its range changes constantly and makes it possible to find presents for different people and occasions, as well as items that recall a visit to the Lake District.

Range: décor, accessories and gifts by recipient

The visible catalogue is organised by product category and by type of recipient. The shop's sections include children's items, home décor, accessories, frames, mugs, cushions and ceramics. It also includes specific sections for weddings and babies, as well as gifts for him and for her, jewellery and scarves.

• Décor and tableware: frames, mugs, cushions, ceramics and vases.
• Accessories: jewellery and scarves.
• Gifts by recipient: for him, for her, for babies and for weddings.
• Children's items and books, such as the title The Tiger Who Came to Tea.
• Lake District souvenirs, with pieces such as the cushion featuring the Ordnance Survey map of Keswick or the framed print of the 214 Wainwrights.
• Seasonal and themed sections: Christmas and items for dogs and cats.

Among the brands and products featured in the online showcase are a Katie Loxton Nova small shoulder bag, a large yellow ceramic vase, a hanging porcelain heart by East of India, a Catbells slate medal on a purple ribbon and a stoneware jug with a vintage floral print.

In-store shopping and online orders

The company combines its physical shop in Keswick with an online store. The site indicated a carriage charge of £4.95 for orders under £50 and free delivery from that amount. The website also offers a newsletter to receive news, inspiration and offers, and has sections for FAQs, blog, returns policy and terms and conditions of sale.

Audience and commercial approach

Alternative targets its offer at those looking for a specific gift for a family member or friend —father, husband, boyfriend, mother, wife, girlfriend, daughter, son or a special friend— and at those who want to take home a souvenir of their visit to the Lake District. The company stresses that its product selection is designed to suit different budgets and tastes.

Location and contact

5 Station Street, Keswick, CA12 5HH · Phone: 01768 772400 · Email: admin@alternativegiftshop.co.uk