As high street shops begin to return to their former glory, there’s one type of store we’ve been dying to come back to. We are of course talking about record stores – because what else brings you that satisfying atmosphere of skimming through a box of vintage vinyl? In this article we cover 10 of our favourite record spots and what makes each so special!
Records Lewisham
70 Lee High Rd, London SE13 5PT
Aptly named ‘Records’, this store remains one of the few still standing record shops in Lewisham Centre – boasting an impressive collection of Reggae, Soul, Punk, Progressive, New Wave, Jazz Fusion, Rock n Roll and Folk! This friendly shop is more than happy to spin the turntable for any record you would like to hear before purchase, and South London Club members can utilise 25% off!
Credit: Records Lewisham
Lion Vibes
Brixton Village, 98 Granville Arcade, London SW9 8PS
When it comes to reggae records, there really is nowhere better than Lion Vibes. The Brixton village market focuses solely on the genre – having bought, sold, and stockpiled everything they could get their hands on! Their impressive collection of Jamaican tunes spans all the way from the 1950s to present day, so you’re sure to find old classics and new favourites alike. South London Club members can enjoy 5% off new and 10% off second-hand records!
Credit: Lion Vibes
The Book And Record Bar
20 Norwood High St, Norwood, London SE27 9NR
As the name suggests, The Book and Record bar is fully licensed and serves a selection of beer, wine, cider, and spirits alongside their second-hand records and books! Their wide range of music genres is on full display with their regular live music events – including DJ, open deck, and play your own record nights. They also broadcast radio shows live from the bar! Snag 10% off all purchases with your South London Club card.
Credit: The Book And Record Bar
Peckham Hoodie
Brixton Lambeth Town Hall SW2 - Giclée Art Print
Casbah Records
320-322 Creek Rd, London SE10 9SW
Casbah Records offers a special selection of not only vinyl, but books, comics and t-shirts! The cosy record store covers an impressively wide range of genres, but specialises in indie/alternative and cult film soundtracks. Despite their dedication to the vintage classics, Casbah holds a keen interest in contemporary music and makes sure to stock a broad selection to meet everyone’s tastes!
Music Specialists
31 Broadway Market, Tooting High St, London SW17 0RJ
Also specialising in reggae, Music Specialists stay true to their name, having dedicated years to expanding the staff’s knowledge and understanding of the genre. The highly experienced staff holds a dedication to ensure every customer’s satisfaction, making them one of the longest running independent reggae records shops in the country. They don’t just stock reggae records though – listeners can enjoy a range of soul, jazz, pop, and many more! Grab 10% off your favourite records with a South London Club membership!
Credit: Music Specialists
Rat Records
348 Camberwell New Rd, London, SE5 0RW
Rat Records has an impressively vast selection of CDs thanks to their avidly collecting owner, who will buy your collections nationwide! Their affordable prices and genuine passion for the culture make it the perfect store to find new hidden gems - no matter the genre!
Croydon Clock Tower Art
I Heart Greenwich Mug
DnR Vinyl
352 Lower Addiscombe Rd, Croydon CR0 7AF
This Croydon record store specialises in UK garage, grime, and dubstep! They bring in both the classics and fresh new talent - providing a welcoming local atmosphere with their knowledgeable team guiding you through to your best finds! You can even hear samples on their website and order online!
Rollin Records
6 Station Rd, West Wickham BR4 0PR
Rollin Records is a quaint second-hand record store, specialising in old school tracks from the 50s onwards - including highlights from the classic rock era! They also stock a number of obscure albums, buying many vinyl from their customers. Run by a music-loving couple, the staff are more than happy to help you through your shopping!
Soul Brother Records
1 Keswick Rd, London SW15 2HL
Soul Brother Records is a vibrant record shop specialising in funk, soul and jazz on both vinyl and CD. With over 50,000 vinyl albums to choose from, a label that supports artists and releases anthologies, and even in-store performances, any music-lover is sure to get something out of a trip to this Putney store!
Banquet Records
52 Eden St, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1EE
A music shop run by music fans, Banquet Records stocks a broad range of cutting edge artists - including Indie, Punk, and Hip-Hop. More than just a record shop though, the space is host to an impressive number of live performances and club nights, so keep an eye out!
The South London Club is a local discount card to help support small independent businesses across South London whilst saving all who live, work & play in South London money! With over 850+ local discounts to choose from, you will discover & explore all the best hidden gems in South London. Join over 7,000 of us & celebrate all that's independent & South London!