London is (literally) a second hand shopper's paradise. The city has countless charity shops, vintage shops and thrifting events scattered all over the place. Charity shops, in particular, have gone mainstream here. They offer incredible deals on pre-loved items but also support various charitable causes. In this article, we'll introduce you to the main charity shop chains in London so you can shop second hand like a pro. Read till the end! We have an expert tip to help you find all charity shops in the big city!
The Main Charity Shops Chains in London
TRAID
TRAID (Textile Recycling for Aid and International Development) is a charity that focuses on reducing textile waste and supporting international development projects. With more than 10 shops across London, TRAID offers a wide selection of high-quality second-hand clothing and accessories.
Shelter
Shelter is a charity that works to end homelessness and bad housing in the UK. They have several charity shops throughout London, offering a variety of clothing, accessories, and household items. By shopping at Shelter, you can help support their mission to ensure everyone has a safe place to call home.
Shop from Crisis
Crisis is another charity dedicated to ending homelessness. Their charity shops, known as "Shop from Crisis," offer a unique shopping experience with their cool, vibrant aesthetic. The Finsbury Park and the Peckham branches even have an in-store coffee shop where you can relax after a successful thrifting session!
How cool?!
Oxfam Charity Shops
Oxfam is a global movement working to end poverty. With more than 600 charity shops in the UK, the chances to find what you need in one of their numerous shops are pretty high! Their shops not only list a wide variety of pre-loved fashion items but also their shops also include specialist book and music shops.
Crazy fact: Oxfam is the largest chain of second-hand bookshops in Europe.
Cancer Research UK, aka CRUK
Cancer Research UK is dedicated to funding research to beat cancer. With over 600 shops across the UK, including superstores and specialist shops, they offer a wide range of items from clothing and accessories to homeware and electronics. The Marylebone branch is one of their premium shops, specializing in high-quality and designer items.
Fara
Fara is a charity that supports disadvantaged children and young people in Romania. They have 40+ shops across London, serving 25+ different communities. Fara Kids is a must-visit for anyone with children, offering a great selection of affordable clothing and toys.
Barnardo's
Barnardo's is one of the UK's largest children's charity, supporting vulnerable children and young people. They have numerous charity shops throughout London, offering a variety of clothing, accessories, books and homeware items. Like an increasing number of charity shops, Barnardo's also has an online store.
Royal Trinity Hospice
Royal Trinity Hospice provides compassionate end-of-life care and support for individuals and their families. Their charity shops are primarily located in central and southwest London. They offer a range of high-quality items, including clothing, accessories, and homeware.
British Heart Foundation, aka BHF
The British Heart Foundation funds life-saving research to end heart and circulatory diseases. With over 700 stores across the UK, they are the biggest charity retailers in the country. BHF is also one of the only charity to have specialty shops, including furniture and electrical stores. BHF furniture stores are definitely worth checking if you move to a new place and are looking for quality and affordable furniture!
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a Christian church and charity that aims to help those in need. They have numerous charity shops throughout London, offering clothing, accessories, homeware, and more. The Salvation Army also has two "superstore" charity shops (called "the GREAT BIG charity superstores"), located in Northampton and Banbury.
Mind
Mind is a mental health charity that provides advice and support to empower individuals experiencing mental health problems. Their charity shops, found across London, offer a variety of clothing, accessories, books, and household items, with proceeds supporting their vital work.
Mary's Living & Giving
Mary's Living & Giving shops, founded by retail expert Mary Portas, offer a unique boutique shopping experience. With over 20 locations in London, these shops are known for their curated selection of designer clothing and accessories. Proceeds from these shops benefit Save the Children, supporting children in need worldwide.
Age UK
Age UK is the country's leading charity dedicated to helping everyone make the most of later life. They have numerous charity shops across London, offering a wide range of pre-loved clothing, accessories, books, and homeware items. Their branch between Chancery lane and Farringdon is usually full of high quality designer pieces. So, if you're on the hunt for higher end goods, keep a note of this store!
Sue Ryder
Sue Ryder supports people through the most difficult times of their lives, providing palliative, neurological, and bereavement care. Their charity shops, located throughout London (and the UK), offer a variety of high-quality second-hand clothing, accessories, and household items.
Thrift Like a Pro: Go Beyond the Big Names
In addition to these well-known charity shop chains, London has many more smaller charity shops and independent vintage stores waiting to be discovered. Explore the city and look for hidden gems – you never know what treasures you might find! If you're not sure where to start your thrifting adventure, check out the Ganddee app. We map all the charity shops and cool vintage places in London to make your thrifting experience a breeze. Plus, we also map vintage events and popups!
Don't miss out!
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