The Coolest Boutiques and Stores in Manchester's Northern Quarter

Boasting Manchester’s best collection of independent magazines and design books, Magma is often filled with fashion students or well-read locals seeking inspiration. The diverse range of titles includes magazines dedicated to slow living, avant-garde fashion, cycling, outdoor adventures and travel, with big names such as Kinfolk and Purple sitting alongside new discoveries. Most of the store is dedicated to print publications, although there is also a carefully curated collection of gifts, cards and stationary on display.

Anyone who grew up in Manchester probably spent a good proportion of their teenage years wandering around Afflecks (formally known as Affleck’s Palace). Since its opening in 1981, this warren of independent shops is a perfect alternative to high street shopping in the city, offering everything from rubber jumpsuits to rave gear. Yes, there will always be that side of Afflecks (you’ll also find condoms and sex toys), but there really is something for everyone if you take the time to browse its multitude of market stalls. The iconic bead shop, various vintage stalls, antique brick-a-brack shops and (of course) Ginger’s ice-cream parlour are all worth seeking out.

There are many record shops in the Northern Quarter, but Piccadilly Records is a Manchester institution that should be at the top of your list. Frequently named as one of the best independent record shops in the entire world, the store offers a wide variety of both new releases and classic albums on vinyl and CD. Showcasing music from genres as diverse as indie, disco and psych, most music fans will find it difficult to walk out without making a purchase. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, have a chat with the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are more than happy to offer advice and recommend the latest releases by their favourite local bands.

Half hip café, half hip design store, Fig + Sparrow may have only been around for a few years compared to the Northern Quarter heavyweights that surround it, but it’s one of Oldham Street’s most beloved stores. In summer, the crowded outdoor tables may lull you into thinking that it is simply a café, but inside you will discover a myriad of carefully selected items for your home or for gifts. It’s also one of the best places in the area to find greetings cards and wrapping paper.

The CFCCA showcases a rotating series of exhibitions that celebrate Chinese contemporary arts and culture, providing a platform for emerging artists to display their work for the first time in the UK. Alongside the two gallery spaces, the gift shop stands alone as a place to discover prints, photographs, textiles, books and accessories that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

This Manchester menswear store has proved so popular over the years that it has now opened another shop in Soho, proving that Manchester is a fashion-forward city in its own right. Located on Thomas Street, in the heart of the Northern Quarter, Oi Polloi offers a sanctuary to the local hipsters, while also accommodating any man looking for well made, well designed garments. The emphasis is on casualwear, with plenty of shirts, jumpers, jackets, jeans and trainers on display for those who like to relax and spend time outdoors. Brands such as Folk, Y.M.C, Penfield, Rains and Barbour sit alongside undiscovered gems, carefully picked out by their expert buying team.