Seek sanctuary from the shopping hordes on nearby Lord Street in this venerable record shop. Probe originally opened in 1971, has witnessed many a Scouse musician browsing its record sleeves (Pete Burns once served time behind the till) and still manages to dish up a daily helping of rare vinyl, CDs and music magazines and print. You’ll find it just by the Bluecoat.

Just across the road from Lunya, tucked safely within the walls of the city centre’s oldest building, is this gallery shop dedicated to showcasing the work of Britain and Europe’s best designer-makers, jewellers, potters and ceramicists. Inside, it is all airy, light and calm. Head here for original, affordable and, occasionally, wearable artworks.

Nestled in a cosy little corner of Queen’s Avenue, what R&H lacks in size, it makes up for in character. Owner Devin Stewart prides himself on first-hand knowledge of everything he stocks. Stewart knows what will work perfectly for every budget and occasion. It’s this personal touch that makes coming here such a uniquely enjoyable experience.

Gifts, cards, mugs, presents for hip toddlers (or more accurately their parents), prints, clocks, books and bags abound, with many items made in Liverpool or the UK – the range of leather satchels made in the city, for example. Utility on Bold Street is an independent shop that can look a retail juggernaut such as Liverpool ONE in the eye and come out the other side with a smile on its face.

This second hand bookshop has been selling “books on most subjects” for four decades, its ceiling-high bookcases containing 40,000 titles on everything from paperback fiction to sci-fi, textbooks, art titles and first editions. It also boasts some seriously cultured neighbours: the Everyman and the Metropolitan Cathedral are both near neighbours.

MerseyMade is a creative hub near the Royal Albert Dock, where you can shop for bespoke items, all handmade by local talent. From artwork and clothing to Toxteth Chocolate and Anfield Gin, there’s something for everyone. There’s also a cafe where you can grab some authentic scouse – our regional dish – as well as delicious homemade cakes and local Neighbourhood coffee. Shopping never felt so good.

Situated in a Grade II-listed dairy in Woolton (an area of Liverpool so scenic you can easily imagine cows ambling down its streets), the Liverpool Cheese Company has, since 2006, been the city’s finest purveyor of specialist and artisan cheeses, as well as one of its most stalwart independent food retailers.

Red Brick Vintage is a cavernous warehouse of vintage, antiques, retro, salvage, hand-crafted, brocante, collectables, vinyl and more. Grab your glad rags and then head out to explore some of the city’s best drinking spots in the Baltic Quarter.