The Best Music Stores In London

London’s music scene continues to thrive, no matter whether you’re into jazz or techno – there’s a music store to suit all tastes. From the record crates of Soho to trendy stores in Shoreditch, vinyl has made a healthy return to form. Plus if you’re after instruments we’ve got just the place.

1. Wunjo Guitars

Store

Denmark Street has been the musicians go to street for decades and Wunjo has been around almost as long. It sells both new and vintage guitars such as Fender and Gibson plus pedals, accessories and lots and lots of amps. You can indulge all your Almost Famous fantasies here.

2. Regent Sounds

Store

Also on Denmark Street is Regent Sounds, who have been working with Fender and Gretsch the longest out of anyone. From acoustics to amps, Regent Sounds are a den of all rock knowledge and they can repair pretty much anything.

3. Sister Ray

Store

Pop into the Sister Ray store in the Ace Hotel in Shoreditch for possibly the coolest selection of electro and EDM in town. It’s hard to know if you could get any trendier.

4. Howard of London

Shop, Store, Music Venue

Into woodwind? Then it’s off to Howard of London with you – they almost look they belong in a Harry Potter book. This is a traditional expert woodwind shop full of every oboe, clarinet, flute and so on you can think of. If you play an instrument like that then this is your nirvana.

5. Rough Trade

Brewery, Store

The daddy of all record stores in London, these guys have been slinging vinyl since ’76. Rough Trade has reinvented itself as both a record label and event space in Brick Lane and spears the Independent Record Store Day every 22 April. If you’re into vinyl, then this is the big one.

6. Flashback

Music Venue, Store

Flashback on Essex St is one of those record stores to treasure. It sells new and second hand vinyl (and will buy vinyl off you), the guys in there live, eat and breathe music and it supports live performances. Forget digital and spend hours in here rummaging around.

7. Phonica Records

Store

A part of Soho for decades, Phonica has withstood the move to digital with panache. They sell new vinyl releases and merchandise; it’s a great place to find out about new bands and the coolest events in London.

8. Banquet Records

Store

This little music store is a rock and indie gem over in Kingston and the store put on a lot of instore live events with up and coming bands. Pop by the website to find out the upcoming gigs.

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