The Orchid House, Keswick, celebrates 18 years of business

The Orchid House Gift Shop was established in Keswick in 2006 by best friend duo Ruth Highton and Libby Podmore.

Situated in Keswick, in the heart of the Lake District, the store has become a firm favourite with both locals and visitors to the area.

The shop, which is busier than ever, sells an array of beautiful products for both home and garden, and a wide range of gifts for people of all ages.

The Orchid House (Image: Supplied)

After marking their 18th anniversary on Sunday April 14, the gift shop thanked visitors from local and afar for all their support since 2006.

Speaking to the News & Star, co-owner Libby said: “Ruth and I met at the school gates, our sons are best friends. I approached her about going into business. We started completely from scratch, with a new name and new look. That was 18 years ago now.”

The Orchid House stocks a lot of well-known brands, many of which hail from Scandinavia, and the business grew significantly in the wake of the pandemic, as more and more people enjoyed a ‘staycation’ in the Lake District.

Libby added: "We are ever evolving, and we always try and follow the latest trends in home design. Our business completely grew after the pandemic with lots of people holidaying in Keswick. It’s never been busier. We have got a really great local customer base who are so supportive. Especially after Covid, they made a real effort to shop locally which was really appreciated.

"We’ve got lots of tourists and footfall, many of whom come back year after year, and it’s nice when we recognise people."

Inside the shop (Image: Supplied)

Ruth and Libby celebrated their 18th anniversary with a glass of fizz and some birthday cake, but have bigger plans for a 20th celebration when that comes in 2026.

Libby concluded: "We’ve had many laughs along the way, Ruth and I are best friends so it’s great that we’re even still speaking with each other after 18 years really. It’s great working with your best friend."