If you’re planning on using more local shops this year, here’s a guide to some of the leading independent businesses to try, as well as some of the great food, drink and products made right here on home soil, from gin stocked in Harvey Nichols to a farm shop selling some of the best pies around.
13. Darwin Brewery, Sunderland Enterprise Park
Darwin Brewery, named after evolutionary pioneer Charles Darwin, proved particularly popular in lockdown with its beer deliveries, but its brews are also available at pubs and restaurants across the city, including Evolution Ale bitter and Beagle Blonde light ale. Darwin Brewery, based at West Quay Court, Sunderland Enterprise Centre, is the sister business of brewing expert Brewlab, which moved to the city more than 20 years ago and offers a range of brewing masterclass services to clients worldwide. Photo: Frank Reid
14. Funk Kombucha, East End
An independent producer has started brewing kombucha, a probiotic fermented tea, from one of Sunderland’s most historic buildings. From the Eagle Building in the East End, John Chilton has perfected the recipe for his Funk Kombucha drink which he brews using tea from Estate Tea Company in Gateshead. You can pick up bottles at places including Port Independent in Sunderland city centre and Clean Bean and Flamingo in Seaham. Photo: JPI Media
15. Maxim Brewery, Rainton Bridge
Sunderland-based Maxim Brewery has built its reputation on salvaging legendary Vaux city beers such as Double Maxim brown ale as well as concocting award-winning new creations such as the dark Raspberry Porter. In 2020 it unveiled its first lager, 4.8 per cent-strong Maxim Pils lager, available in 330ml bottles, after listening to feedback from customers using its lockdown delivery service. Photo: JPI Media
16. Sourdough and more, Penshaw Farm Shop
Expect a whole host of home-made produce at this home bakery, farm butchers, nursery and tea room. The award-winning family business is open Monday to Sunday 8.30am to 4pm and you can pick up everything from peach melbas to pies and sausage rolls. Photo: submitted