Explore the city, London experiences,
September 25 2024
Amidst a sea of music streaming options, the humble vinyl record is very much making a comeback. By 2023, sales had risen for the 16th year in a row to almost 6 million units, showcasing the power of this retro medium. Celebrations such as Record Store Day serve only to make them more popular, and London is a mecca for independent record stores.
An independent record store, similar to indie record labels, does not have any backing from larger retailers. These stores have a rich history in British music, often the meeting place for famous bands who would peruse through large collections of iconic classics and new releases.
There are now more than 400 independent record shops in the UK, many of which reside in London. These cater for all tastes, from 60s soul jazz vibes to reggae, hip hop and new music, including LPs from Olivia Rodrigo to Taylor Swift.
You can find second-hand albums averaging around £15 to £20 in the UK. However, limited edition pieces such as reissues could reach up to three figures.
You can sell your old records online at sites like Rough Trade, or sell with an independent retailer. The best record shops will give you a true valuation of your merch – but you can always do your own research too.
We’ve gathered up a list of the best vinyl shops London has to offer, so you can buy and sell at your leisure.
Since 1984, Reckless Records has built a name for itself as one of the biggest jazz record shops in London – but it caters for so much more. Here you’ll find a range of classics from the rock, pop, reggae and jazz genres.
Based on Berwick Street in the heart of Soho, Reckless offers second-hand 7 and 12-inch vinyls, with musical oracles waiting to help you. The team buy new records every week from around the UK and even further afield. You can even sell your collections here, though you may operate at a loss once you discover all their hidden gems.
Located close to our Piccadilly and Trafalgar Square branches, Reckless has another claim to fame. It featured on the cover of Oasis’ earth-shattering ‘What’s The Story Morning Glory?’ album. Take your camera and enjoy.
Camden Market has always been known for its quirky arts scene, and this Camden record shop is no exception. All Ages Records is your go-to for the punk and hardcore genres, extending its collection beyond vinyls and into CDs, DVDs and books.
One of the most alternative independent record shops in London has all the energy you’d expect from the music genres. That’s why you can also sell your music and even buy tickets for local hardcore and punk gigs.
All Ages Records is hugely passionate about supporting local artists and encourages passers-by to promote their own music in the shop. You can find it on Pratt Street in Camden Town.
With branches in North and East London, Flashback Records offers a rich and diverse collection of sounds, from classical to Latin and dubstep. You name an era or a genre and Flashback will have it, whether it’s brand-new or pre-loved.
Its Hackney-based record shop in Shoreditch regularly plays host to independent artists, so you can enjoy live music as well as browse thousands of LPs, books, DVDs and accessories. In the Islington store, you’ll find two floors of epic records, featuring second-hand and rare titles.
Experience the vast array of merchandise for yourself at their shops on Essex Road, Bethnal Green Road or Topsfield Parade.
Not far from our Holborn branch, Third Man Records is no ordinary London Soho record shop. It holds the accolade of being founded by Jack White, frontman of Seven Nation Army hitmakers The White Stripes. Comprising both a retail floor and a live music venue, it would first open its doors in London in 2021 after huge successes in the USA.
Here you can feast your eyes on music, t-shirts, books and even your own turntable equipment. Once you’re down browsing, head down to the Blue Basement to watch other performers. Think yourself a bit of a musician? There’s an on-site token-operated lucky dip book machine, which offers a recording booth for you to put your voice straight onto vinyl.
You can find Third Man Records on Marshall Street, close to a range of local attractions including Covent Garden.
This Brixton record shop is home to some of the best reggae albums in London. As you enter, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with this eclectic range of soul, R&B and dancehall music. Discover the soundtracks of your childhood nestled amongst vinyl and cassette tapes, and grab a deal in the bargain box.
Ideal for collectors, Supertone Records features 7, 10 and 12-inch vinyls, plus CDs, DVDs and pre-orders. Once you’re done filtering through the second-hand collectors’ corner, be sure to grab a few accessories.
Away from the prim and proper Notting Hill Portobello Road locations, Supertone Records is further south in Brixton. As a hub for Caribbean music, this neighbourhood is the ideal spot for discovering new reggae classics. Get yours at a bargain price on Acre Lane.
From Brick Lane to Greenwich, London is a haven for independent record stores. Go for the merchandise and come out with new memories, from in-store recording studios to live performances.
Your musical adventure ends with a stay at one of our luxurious hotels. Once you’ve discovered the best vinyl stores in London, sit back and put your feet up. Our Central London locations are waiting for you and your new music.
