DO you have a friend's birthday coming up or a special occasion to plan for?

Here are some of the best gift shops to choose from around Cumbria.

Special Occasions

Barrow's gift shop is located on Crellin Street, holds a five-star rating online has been praised for its offers, gifts and service.

Online reviewer Ian Taylor said: "They produced the memorial books for both my beloved wife's and my dear dad's funerals. The quality was excellent and the thoughts and suggestions were inspired. I would definitely recommend them to anyone."

Brambles

Market Street's Brambles is one of Ulverston's most popular gift shops.

The five-star rated shop is open six days a week, Monday to Saturday from 10am until 5pm.

Online reviewer Paul Simm said: "What a lovely shop, lady really helpful and friendly, lots of different things, give them a look in. I love my purchases."

Cumbria Crystal

This Ulverston business is one of the last remaining producers of hand-blown and hand-cut lead English crystal.

Known for its highly skilled artisans and traditional & contemporary designs, this is one to try next time you're in the area.

One reviewer said: "Brilliant experience and charming staff. Fascinating to watch the skilled men and women effortlessly (it seems) handle the molten crystal and others do the fine cutting and engraving with such precision and skill. It explains why the glassware is quite highly priced, but worth it for a special possession or gift."

Cartmel Cheeses

A specialist cheese and gift shop known for its British cheeses and fresh breads.

One reviewer said: "Visited a few times over our weekend, pizzas, and music on the Friday night with drinks from the brewery and cocktails from the wine snug. Cheeseboard and wine on the Saturday - a tip The Ultimate Cheeseboard is way too much for 4 people, we did a take out."

The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop

The popular Gingerbread shop is known for its excellent snacks and ideal location in Grasmere.

One reviewer said: "This gingerbread has a very unique spicy flavour and the texture was crunchy but chewy at the same time. Not at all what I was expecting. Definitely for sure stop while visiting this beautiful quaint town of Grasmere."