The Best Independent Shops in Manchester

If you’re seeking stylish stationary, organic beauty products, fragrant soy candles or minimal jewellery, Idaho is well worth the tram ride out to Altrincham. Owner Amy has carefully curated a selection of gifts that are all well designed and unique to the area with a focus placed on ethical brands such as Nathalie Bond and Meraki. The store itself is beautifully designed with a slightly Scandinavian aesthetic and wooden walls, opening up to the award-winning Altrincham market on its doorstep.

You may not associate north Manchester with exciting concept stores, but Nonsense has proven popular since opening its doors in Prestwich last year. The emphasis is on well-designed products and unique gifts, with plenty of plants and accompanying pots on display. There’s also a small café inside the shop serving coffee and cake and an extensive programme of creative workshops on offer.

Combining womenswear, menswear, plants and Scandinavian-inspired home accessories, Object describes itself as a ‘neighbourhood store’ located in the leafy suburb of Chorlton. Inside, it may be small but owners Rachel and Alex curate an impeccably styled collection of products from all around the world. You’ll find Lithuanian linen jumpsuits, Japanese ceramics, locally sourced succulents and Alex’s own range of men’s shirts alongside an impressive selection of independent magazines.