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Do you have an eye for a bargain and a passion for the vintage aesthetic? If so, then a trip to London’s vintage and charity shops should be on the cards! As one of the best places to bag yourself some vintage bargains in the UK, London offers a retail experience with every budget in mind.
Whether you’re searching for vintage clothing or retro home goods, you’ll find it all in the capital’s vintage stores. Here are some of our top picks of the best vintage spots in London:
Shoreditch vintage shops
Named one of the best areas for vintage shopping in London, Shoreditch should be top on your shopping bucket list. With a collection of markets and boutiques on Brick Lane, you can shop ‘til you drop at this East London spot.
Nordic Poetry, Shoreditch
Step into an Instagram haven at Nordic Poetry, famed for its luxury vintage pieces. Browse high-end brands such as Christian Dior, Chloe and Kenzo, and choose between a stunning collection of finely-crafted bags, shoes and wardrobe pieces. Once you’re finished shopping, relax and sip a drink in the shop’s very own bar!
The nearest station to Nordic Poetry is London Waterloo. From here, it’s just a half an hour journey on the number 26 bus towards Hackney Wick.
House of Vintage, Shoreditch
For vintage wardrobe essentials in the mid-price range, head to House of Vintage. With a promise of goods that have particular emphasis on the rare and unique, this wonderful vintage haven stocks everything from casual jumpers and hoodies, to thick socks and beautiful knitwear pieces. With both a men’s and women’s range to choose from, you’ll be truly spoilt for choice!
To get here from London Waterloo, hop on the tube via the Jubilee line towards Stratford and switch at Canada Water. From there, catch the Overground towards Highbury & Islington and get off at Shoreditch High Street.
Soho vintage shops
As another popular hub for stellar vintage shopping, Soho is certainly worth a visit. With a great variety of vintage haunts available, it’s a legendary spot among London’s vintage scene.
Beyond Retro, Soho
If you’re a true vintage shopping fan, you’ve probably heard of Beyond Retro, and their Soho store doesn’t disappoint! With a variety of eras and styles to browse through, this well-known vintage chain is certainly worth the hype. For those with a particular interest in vintage American pieces, Beyond Retro is the store for you, offering retro American outfits through the decades.
London Waterloo is the nearest station to Beyond Retro. From Waterloo, catch the tube via the Bakerloo line to Queen’s Park and get off at Oxford Circus.
Goldsmith Vintage, Soho
If you’d describe your style as eclectic, quirky and fun, then Goldsmith Vintage in Soho will be right up your alley. Expect glorious vintage furs in every colour of the rainbow, cute and quirky sunglasses and colourful shell suits. You can also find more everyday vintage pieces, from iconic vintage staples like LEVI'S jeans to classic vintage sportswear.
From London Waterloo, Goldsmith Vintage is a 10-minute tube journey via the Northern line towards Mill Hill East. Get off at Tottenham Court Road and walk for two-minutes to reach this vintage store.
Pop Boutique, Soho
For a fun and colourful selection of styles from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, head over to Pop Boutique. As well as retro clothing, this popular vintage chain also stocks jewellery and home goods, so it’s the perfect place for curating the dream vintage lifestyle!
London Waterloo is the nearest station to Soho’s Pop Boutique. From there, catch the tube via the Northern line to High Barnet and get off at Leicester Square.
Best Charity Shops in London
Charity shops should not be underestimated when it comes to vintage shopping. They’re often the best place to find some stunning vintage pieces – usually at a much lower price-point. Here are some of our favourites:
Boutique by Shelter, King’s Cross
Famed for being one of the chicest charity shops around, Boutique by Shelter King’s Cross is a great spot for unearthing some true gems. Stocking everything from designer to quality high street vintage pieces, along with bespoke interior design looks, this is a charity shop like you’ve never seen before.
To get here from London Waterloo, catch the tube via the Jubilee line to Willesden Green and get off at Green Park. Switch to the Victoria line towards Walthamstow Central and get off at King’s Cross St Pancras.
Wandsworth Oasis, Clapham
With nine charity shops in and around the borough, no Wandsworth Oasis store is quite the same. Featuring a fantastic collection of affordable and unique vintage pieces, you’re certain to find some absolute bargains. And with their funds going towards those living with HIV, you’ll know that your pennies are going to good use.
To get here, catch the train to Clapham Junction, before riding for 15 minutes on the number 87 bus to Silverthorne Road.
British Red Cross, Notting Hill
Famed for its colourful houses and Instagrammable cafés, Notting Hill is the perfect place for a spot of vintage charity shopping. You can find a gorgeous selection of vintage gems in British Red Cross, from clothes and shoes to jewellery and household items. Your money will go towards helping British Red Cross workers all over the world support those in need, from the UK Emergency Response team to victims of modern slavery and trafficking.
From Vauxhall, catch a tube via the Victoria line towards Walthamstow Central and get off at Victoria. Switch to the Circle line towards Edgware Road and ride until Notting Hill Gate.
There are so many amazing vintage and charity shops to visit in London– so why not plan your shopping trip today? Explore our flexible range of ticket types to find the right one for your journey. Make the most of cheap train tickets throughout your trip by going off-peak, and those with a Railcard could save even more. Looking for more shopping inspiration? Take a look at our definitive guide to the best shopping centres in the south west.
