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AntoineR

Sorry, Depop: These London Thrift Stores Are Way More Fun


Two girls go thrifting, sifting through a clothes rail, looking very happy with what they find

Living in London is all about convenience. Ordering groceries on Deliveroo, finding dates on Tinder, and yes, even thrifting on Depop. But when it comes to finding truly unique, affordable pieces for your wardrobe, nothing beats the good old-fashioned thrift store.


Remember what it’s like to try things on before you commit? That instant gratification of scoring an amazing find IRL just hits different. Plus, if I’m being real, scrolling through endless pages of clothes online is weirdly exhausting. 


I usually end up on the gram. Isn’t it way nicer to get out and actually explore?

Luckily, London is a goldmine of thrift shops, each with its own personality and hidden gems. So, ditch the apps for a day and rediscover the joy of thrifting IRL – here are my top 10 thrift stores in London to level up your wardrobe without breaking the bank (or your screen time limits).


#1 - Retromania by FARA London, Victoria


Not your average charity shop – Retromania by FARA is the ultimate time capsule, where you can score anything from a Victorian lace blouse to a classic 80s power suit.


They've got clothes from every era, so whether you're channelling your inner flapper girl or rocking a 90s grunge look, you'll find something to die for. 


  • Where? 6 Upper Tachbrook Street, Victoria, London, SW1V 1SH

  • When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Socials? Follow Retromania on Instagram here.


#2 - Traid, Camden


This one’s a different beast. Traid is an absolute maze of vintage and second-hand clothing, with hidden gems around every corner. 


The stock’s curated by staff, so you'll only find unique, well-made pieces that you'll actually want to wear (and brag about finding) here!


  • Where? 154 Camden High St, London NW1 0NE 

  • When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

  • Socials? Follow Traid on Instagram here.


#3 - Boutique by Shelter, Kings Cross


This place isn't your average dusty thrift store. It's curated AF, with a focus on designer labels and high-end vintage pieces. Your purchases help fight homelessness, so you can look good and do good at the same time.Be warned, though, the prices can be a little steep!


  • Where? West Coal Drops, London N1C 4DQ

  • When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

  • Socials? Follow Boutique by Shelter on Instagram here.


A woman looking very chic in sunglasses in a thrift store, sitting on an old chair

#4 - Mary’s Living And Giving


Situated in that little green shop from Ted Lasso, Mary’s Living And Giving in Richmond is a treasure. 


Stocking brands like Day, Vivienne Westwood, and even vintage YSL and Gucci are admittedly a bit pricier than your average charity shop, but the quality and selection are top-notch for the cost.


Where? 29 The Green, Richmond Upon Thames, Surrey, TW9 1LX

When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Socials? Follow Mary's Living and Giving on Instagram here.


#5 - Octavia Foundation, Kentish Town


This gorgeous Kentish Town shop is like stepping back in time in the best way!


Octavia Foundation took over this old-school ladies 'wear shop from the 1930s and gave it a glow-up, restoring vintage floor tiles, wood-panelled walls, and a seriously chic vibe.


Lucky for us, the clothes are anything but dusty. You'll find a super varied selection of vintage dresses, retro sportswear, and even some modern brands like Hobbs and Topshop Premium. 


Where? 213-215 Kentish Town Road, London, NW5 2JU 

When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Socials? Follow the Octavia Foundation on Instagram here.



An old furniture thrift store packed with old tables, chairs, and so much more

#6 - Shop From Crisis, Finsbury Park


This place isn’t only a charity shop but also a coffee bar, my dream pairing!  They've got a super cute storefront and host regular events, so check their Insta for the latest happenings.


Where? 19 Stroud Green Rd, Finsbury Park, London N4 3FB 

When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Socials? Check out their Instagram here.


#7 - Fara Home, Whitton


Okay, this one's a bit off the beaten track, but trust me, it's worth the journey. Fara Home in Whitton is a treasure trove of vintage homeware, from quirky glassware to retro artwork. It's basically like raiding your grandma's attic but with way more style.


Where? 96 High Street Whitton, Twickenham TW2 7LN

When? Monday - Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Socials? Check out their Instagram here.


#8 - Salvation Army, Mayfair


Rumour has it, this is where Vogue editors ditch their last season's designer goodies – you heard it here first! Salvation Army in Mayfair is a hidden gem tucked away just off Oxford Street, and it's packed with high-end pieces at seriously good prices. Think barely-worn designer labels and unique vintage finds – all without the Bond Street price tag.


Where? 10 Princes St, London W1B 2LH

When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Socials? Store isn’t on socials – their website’s here


A fashionable girl pose takes a selfie in front of a mirror to show her thrifted vintage outfit.

#9 - British Red Cross, Chelsea


If Made In Chelsea is anything to go by, this is THE place to be if you're after designer labels and high-end fashion. Think Louboutin heels, vintage Chanel bags, and enough silk scarves to make your head spin. Just be prepared for a bit of a splurge – this is Chelsea, after all.


Where? 69-71 Old Church Street, Chelsea, London SW3 5BS

When? Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Sunday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Socials? Follow the British Red Cross on Facebook here.


#10 - Oxfam, Notting Hill


Okay, you know Oxfam, right? The OG charity shop that's been around forever. But don't let the household name fool you – their Notting Hill location is anything but basic.


This place is small but mighty, with a curated selection of designer accessories, vintage finds, and affordable high-street pieces. You might even score a pair of Chloe heels for a steal (It’s been known – true story!).


Where? 144 Notting Hill Gate, Notting Hill, London W11 3QG

When? Monday - Saturday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Socials? Follow Oxfam Notting Hill on Instagram here.


BONUS: Atika


A screenshot of the Atika website homepage

Atika is another popular and well-sought-after haven for pre-loved fashion, but it's more than just a store. It's an experience.

And I don't say that lightly.


Imagine a sprawling warehouse overflowing with 20,000+ pieces of vintage and reworked clothing, from classic denim jackets and retro dresses to statement coats and unique accessories. Well, imagine no more.


Located just off Brick Lane, Atika is great for people who love to express their individuality through fashion. But it's not just clothes – you'll also find homeware, books, and magazines, making it the perfect spot to spend an afternoon getting lost in a world of pre-loved treasures.


  • Where? 55, 59 Hanbury St, London E1 5JP

  • When? Monday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Sunday: 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM

  • Socials? Follow Atika on Instagram here.


Wrapping up


So, there you have it – 10 of the best thrift stores in London that you need to check out, like, yesterday.


Now, go thrift your heart out! And hey, if you find something amazing, snap a pic and share it on the Ganddee app! We’d love to see what you find.


P.S. Wanna take your thrifting game to the next level? Download the Ganddee app. It's an ultimate guide to nearby charity shops, kilo sales, and even vegan cafes across London. 

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