Five of Bristol’s top vintage markets

The news that the popular Stokes Croft vintage market is closing has left many wondering where else they can scout vintage pieces from in Bristol.

With such a wide variety of items, Stokes Croft vintage market has been a staple choice for Bristol vintage lovers for eight years. The establishment is comprised of several businesses, each with a unique selling point.

Vintage markets and shops have become the heart of Bristol for many locals. The importance of sustainable fashion has been introduced and enforced by vintage markets, with many advocating for the expansion of the trend.

We’ve put together a guide of some of the best vintage spots in Bristol so you can continue to reap the benefits of affordable and sustainable vintage.

Loot Vintage
6-9 Haymarket Walk, BS1 3LN

Loot Vintage is nestled between the bear pit and city centre – Photo: Eleanor Mason

Located by the Bearpit, between Stokes Croft and the city centre, Loot Vintage harbours a funky and trendy vibe. The vintage shop incorporates colour and light within a trendy warehouse-like unit.

Loot Vintage sells high-quality items, from vintage denim and sportswear to designer brands. The shop prides itself on its ethically produced reworked items and aims for sustainability on a global scale.

M32 Flea Market
Stapleton Road, M32 Underpass, BS5 6PE

Traders at the M32 flea market – photo: Mia Vines Booth

The M32 flea market is situated on and around the M32 skatepark. The market was founded by LitterARTI, a local arts organisation, in an effort to create economic benefits whilst bringing a positive community to the space under the motorway.

The Flea Market is held the last Saturday of every month, alongside other events which are posted on their website.

The M32 Flea Market advertises itself as ‘The People’s Market’, allowing individuals to book a stall for just £15 providing business to other traders in the area, sharing the benefits of the project.

The market creates a sense of community under the M32, with vibrant stalls selling a treasure trove of items for bargain prices. Bring cash and don’t be afraid to haggle.

St Nicholas Market
The Corn Exchange, Corn St, BS1 1JQ

The St Nick’s Night Market sees stalls and entertainment spilling out into the streets surrounding the Corn Exchange – Photo Rebecca Noakes

St Nicholas Markets is one Bristol’s most popular markets, located in the heart of the city. The unique indoor market is a permanent fixture and boasts a huge selection of eateries, jewellery stands, vintage clothes and boutique art sellers.

The market is on every day other than Sunday and expands every Saturday on to Corn Street, where even more traders sell a wide variety of eclectic vintage and antiques. St Nicholas Markets also hosts an annual night market.

Urban Fox
58 Corn St, BS1 2AZ

Urban Fox – photo: Eleanor Mason

Urban Fox is a vintage shop also located on Corn Street. The popular shop sells thrifted items that have been ‘cherry-picked’ to be ahead of the curve. Expect vintage streetwear, quality thrifted items and up-cycled clothes.

Urban Fox has risen in popularity due its popular neighbour St Nicholas Market, next door. Although Urban Fox is on the pricier end of the vintage spectrum, it boasts a well-curated selection that fetch a higher price.

The Vintage Thrift Store
35-37 Park St, BS1 5NH

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cfbohqgoy6p/?hl=en

This huge thrift store on Park Street is great value for money. Boasting an upstairs and downstairs, and massively discounted items, Thrift is a go-to for students in Bristol.

Be sure to check out their Instagram (@thirftbristol) for a carefully-curated selection of their clothing being modelled by Bristol’s fashionistas.

With online stores like Depop and Vinted growing in popularity, it’s easy to forget that sustainable and affordable fashion is right on our doorstep. But the closure of Stokes Croft vintage market shows it is more important than ever to support these independent markets.

Main photo: Eleanor Mason

Read more: Popular vintage market in Stokes Croft to close after eight years

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