Factory Records co-founder Tony Wilson said: “Manchester kids have the best record collections.” And it’s no wonder, Manc musicians – both born and adopted – have played a massive part in shaping the musical landscape. From 10cc and the Bee Gees, to Joy Division, New Order, The Smiths, The Stone Roses and a little band called Oasis, we’ve produced some of the greats. And there’s no denying, the best way to enjoy them is through the magic of vinyl. With that in mind, here are our favourite record shops and vinyl haunts in Manchester.
[Feature image: dina_inezcortez and leahjth]
1. Vinyl Resting Place, Afflecks Palace
Vinyl hunting is a serious business and that attitude can often carry over into the shops themselves, which can make the experience a touch intimidating. But not at Vinyl Resting Place. Located on the third floor of the iconic Afflecks Palace, the shop is run by self-confessed vinyl nerd and all-around lovely man Alistair, who is always up for a chat and happy to offer advice. The enclave is a treasure trove of records, both new and old, and offers something for everyone. From the keen beginner to the seasoned connoisseur, all at a very reasonable price. Vinyl Resting Place, 3rd Floor, Afflecks Palace, 52 Church St, M4 1PW.
Listening Facilities: Yes
2. Oxfam Emporium, Northern Quarter
Not to be confused with its vintage selling sister store, Oxfam Originals, the charity shop offers your bog-standard, second-hand bits and bobs. But if you head to the back you’ll find an impressive collection of used vinyl, from weird and wonderful 7″ singles to obscure albums you didn’t know you needed in your collection, all dirt cheap. Oxfam, 8-10 Oldham St, M1 1JQ.
Listening Facilities: No
3. Piccadilly Records, Northern Quarter
Manchester’s largest and longest-running independent record shop, Piccadilly Records has been at the forefront of the scene for forty years and offers an extensive range of new releases across all genres. If it’s recent and decent, you’ll find it at Piccadilly. And if you’re struggling to find something, you can always ask the lovely staff behind the counter. Piccadilly Records, 53 Oldham St, M1 1JR.
Listening Facilities: Yes
4. All Night Flight
All Night Flight Records is a Manchester-based, online select record store dealing in predominately left-field, experimental, electronic and worldwide sounds. Sales are predominantly online-only, but customers are welcome to collect in person to save on postage. Customers are also welcome to visit in person if they’d like to spend more time perusing and listening to records. Email tom@allnightflightrecords.com for more information or to book an appointment. All Night Flight Records, 10 Mealhouse Brow, Stockport, SK1 1JP.
Listening Facilities: Yes
5. Kingbee Records, Chorlton
Based in the paradise that is Chorlton, Kingbee has been trading for almost 25 years and is one of the last remaining independent record shops in the North West of England. The shop attracts collectors and dealers from all over the world and their stock is in constant rotation, so you’re guaranteed a find on every visit. Kingbee Records, 519 Wilbraham Rd, M21 0UF.
Listening Facilities: Yes
6. Vinyl Revival, Northern Quarter
Vinyl Revival was established in 1997 and is situated in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter. A good percentage of the shop is dedicated to local bands from the 60′s to the present day. The shop also boasts a vast range of vinyl, CDs, t-shirts and posters related to this city’s great musical heritage. And if Manchester bands aren’t your thing then fear not! They also have a great selection of Punk, Reggae, Soul, Rock, Hip Hop, Electro, House and 50′s and 60′s. Vinyl Revival, 5 Hilton St, M4 1LP.
Listening Facilities: Yes
Also published on Medium.