Shopping
Nottingham has some terrific shopping areas and unique boutiques, with some shops only found here and in London. Head to Bridlesmith Gate for clothes and boutiques, Hockley for vintage and independent shops, or Market Street and Queen Street for records and comics. Also check out Flying Horse Walk, and The Exchange.
Paul Smith
We’re huge fans of Paul Smith, and lucky for us, his very first shop and his beautiful flagship store are right here in his hometown of Nottingham. Check out Byard Lane (just off Bridlesmith Gate) for the tiny original shop, but don’t miss the flagship store — a three-storey Georgian town-house at 20 Low Pavement (next to Jamie’s Italian). The building and details are wonderful.
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It’s easy to miss our favourite independent comic shop with it’s humble window display. It’s dark and tiny, but don’t be afraid to enter as you’ll find the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable.
Forbidden Planet
Yeah it’s a chain, but our store is big, well-stocked and another joy for comic fans.
The Music Exchange
Beloved of Sir Paul Smith, this is more than an independent record shop. It's a social enterprise dedicated to supporting the local community and music scene. It's so very tiny, and the racks of vinyl will have you on your tip-toes.
Waterstones
Yes, really. There are many Waterstones but we love ours. It’s huge, there’s a coffee shop on the 3rd floor, and the travel section is amazing. It’s a great place to find some peace and quiet in the city.
Ideas On Paper
Easy to miss, this independent shop in Cobden Chambers sells a selection of collectible magazines, journals, books, and stationery. Owner Alex describes it as like being in a graphic designer’s apartment, and he'll probably offer you a coffee whilst you browse.
Cow
Affordable vintage clothing and accessories sourced from all over the world. This place is very popular and for good reason.
Wild Clothing
One of our oldest vintage clothes boutiques with a nice line in Americana. Feels like a very well-organised Texan jumble sale.
Atomic
Wonderful modern gift shop selling cards, posters, bags, books, cameras, homewares and so much more.
Joe’s Store
Joe calls this a “store full of cool†and he stocks plenty of interesting bags, homewares, clothing accessories and unusual gifts. Just don’t get him talking or you’ll be there all day.
Hopkinson
A miscellany of oddments, antiques and furniture. They serve tea and hot snacks amidst all the nik-naks.
Le Chien et Moi
A wonderful curiosity shop of eclectic wares for lovers of unique or unusual goods. You’ll also meet their resident Bassett Hound, Mulberry.
Braderie Vintage
Great little thrift and vintage store selling clothes, accessories, and homewares.
Fopp Records
Part of a chain, but has that indie feel. However, they've just relocated from the wonderful building on Queen Street and are now in the rather tired Broadmarsh Shopping Centre. Bit sad really, although we have the new Rough Trade store to look forward to.
Rough Trade (coming soon)
London, New York... Nottingham! We're getting our own Rough Trade record store, and it may or may not be open in time for our wedding. Probably not, but if it is you'll have to check it out.