DISCOVER: London’s Best Record Stores
by Daniel Fowler
In the era of Spotify, Apple Music and the like, there’s just something about vinyl that hits different. Its crackles and pops scratch an itch that streaming just never can. It’s a sensory, psychological thing that keeps you coming back for more. And for crate diggers and audiophiles everywhere, there’s no place better to get your fix than London: a treasure trove of record shops that are as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. So, let’s drop the needle and spin our way through its greatest hits.
Rough Trade East
Our title track hails from Brick Lane: East London’s perennial home of all things cool. Packing a standout collection of indie releases and limited-edition merch across its sizeable shopfront, Rough Trade’s flagship store also doubles as a live music and events venue. We’re talking Stormzy, Sampha, Little Simz, Noel Fielding and more. Its atmosphere is electric; its vibes impeccable, and the coffee’s pretty good too. For the vinyl purist, this place is Mecca.
Phonica Records
Revered for its meticulously curated selection of house, techno, and everything in between, Phonica is where the city’s DJs and producers come to get their fix of the freshest tracks. With its in-house label and regular events, this Soho-based shop isn’t just selling records; it’s shaping the sound of the underground.
Eldica Records
Tucked away down one of Hackney’s many side streets, Eldica is a small shop with a big personality — a one-stop portal into reggae, soul, jazz freakout, boogie, Latin and UK soul. And aside from a few recent reissues and possibly a rogue hip-hop LP here and there, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything released after the mid-’90s. Founded by husband-and-wife team Andy and Annie in 2000, it’s already been dubbed as one of the world’s best. Not bad for a shop that started life as a mirror and mosaic store.
Sister Ray Records
Want to know how cool Sister Ray is? If being the first store to distribute music from The Arctic Monkeys or being named after a Velvet Underground song wasn’t enough, how about an endorsement from Oasis? Featuring on the cover of ‘(What’s the Story) Morning Glory’, this iconic store has been a Soho mainstay since 1989, catering to every imaginable genre. Whether you’re hunting for punk rarities, classic rock staples, or the latest alternative releases, its extensive catalogue won’t disappoint. And don’t be afraid to bring up any of the above bands with the staff. They love it.
Love Vinyl Records
A decade deep in Hoxton’s vinyl scene, Love Vinyl has evolved from record shop to cultural cornerstone. Behind the decks and between the shelves, owners Zafar and Jake bring the same energy to recommending the latest hidden gems as they do uncovering dusty rarities. A hotspot for all things jazz, funk, soul, disco and house.
Flashback Records
With multiple locations across London, Flashback Records is the go-to spot for vintage vinyl. Whether you’re digging in Islington, Shoreditch, or Crouch End, you’re guaranteed to find second-hand records spanning every genre and era. Flashback’s meticulously organized sections make it easy to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a first pressing of a classic album or an unexpected gem. The shops also buy records, so you can turn your old records into new discoveries.
Sounds of the Universe
More sonic expedition than record store, Sounds of the Universe packs Reggae, Dubstep, House, Disco, Funk and Soul into its eclectic library. Reflecting the global tapestry of sounds that influence London’s music scene, it’s a paradise for collectors. Oh and FYI, the shop’s also joined at the hip to the Soul Jazz Records label: an independent record label, book publisher and film-maker for the city’s finest.
Kristina Records
Whilst it may not boast the grandeur of some of its central counterparts, Kristina Records sure makes up for it with its killer selection of deep cuts and rare finds. Focusing on underground and avant-garde genres, from experimental electronics to obscure post-punk, the minimalist setup and curated approach mean that every record in Kristina’s bins is there for a reason.
Lion Vibes
Reggae lovers, this one’s for you. From classic roots and dub to contemporary dancehall, this small but mighty shop packs a punch with vinyls spanning the genre’s rich history. Regularly hosting live in-store events, head over first Thursday of the month to their Selectors event – an open 15-minute segment where you can bring your best shot to drop.
Hidden Sounds
Tucked away up a winding set of stairs behind Ridley Road Market, Hidden Sounds is a total gem in the world of liquorice pizza. The shop’s rapid rise from industry whisper to vinyl essential mirrors its location’s cultural fusion – here, obscure Balearic cuts share shelf space with prog-rock rarities and experimental jazz gems. Like the market below, it’s a place where worlds collide, but with one crucial difference: every piece in this carefully curated collection has earned its spot.
All Ages Records
True to its name, All Ages has been breaking down musical barriers since starting as a stall in Camden Market a few years back. From hardcore punk to death metal, with plenty of crossover thrash in between, this is where London’s alternative scene comes to worship. The walls are plastered with flyers from legendary gigs; an ode to the shop’s original ethos: if it’s loud, fast, and authentic, it belongs here.
Out on the Floor Records
What do you get when you cross Camden’s oldest record shop with two vinyl veterans wielding 60 years of combined crate-digging wisdom? Out on the Floor Records: a musical wonderland where rare Miles Davis pressings share space with UK hardcore bangers, and the shop’s own reggae label, Tuff Scout, drops heat from legends like Lee “Scratch” Perry. From fresh-pressed chart-toppers to that impossibly rare Japanese import you’ve been hunting for years – if it spins, it’s probably here.
We’ve barely scratched the surface of London’s extensive collection with the eight stores above. Honourable mentions go out to Reckless Records, Vinyl Pimp, Atlantis Records, and Stranger Than Paradise Records. Whatever your taste, there’s a tune with your name on it.
And for the encore, here’s the best news: you don’t even have to wait to get home to spin those records. art’otel’s suites in London Hoxton and Battersea Power Station come with their own Roberts Turntable and records included. Because what’s a getaway without an impromptu dance party? Happy listening!
