While we all wait for normality to return, we’re looking ahead to what we can expect from 2021 when restrictions are lifted and culture can continue to thrive. Despite the year being clouded in uncertainty, one thing we’re sure of is that 2021 will undoubtedly be the year that Stockport affirms its status as the new home of independent shopping.

With an already blossoming indie scene, there are a wealth of shops and cafes to check out as soon as we’re able to spend a little time further south of central Manchester. Below, we’ve picked out a few of the best independent spots to keep an eye on in Stockport, covering everything from books, magazines and records to vegan cakes – and even some vintage antiques!

Have a browse in Rare Mags

Independent magazine and book shop Rare Mags specialise in hard to find and international magazine titles, so you’re sure to find plenty of hidden gems among their diverse range of stock. They also sell a range of fiction and non-fiction books from lots of independent publishers, and serve specialist coffee too — what’s not to love? It’s the perfect place to go for a weekend browse and a hot cup of coffee.

Rare Mags, 5 Lower Millgate, Stockport SK1 1JQ, Tel: 0161 222 3883
Find your statement piece at Still Life Story

Founded by florist and product designer Ruby Friel, homeware and lifestyle store Still Life Story aims to promote slow living with their collections that transcend trends — they sell pieces that people will want to keep forever. They’ve got an incredible variety of stunning finds that can help you complete your home, so if you’re looking for that one perfect piece you just can’t seem to find anywhere, it’s definitely worth having a look in Still Life Story.

Still Life Story, 5 Little Underbank, Stockport SK1 1LA
Indulge in a treat at Hillgate Cakery

All of Hillgate Cakery’s delicious baked goods are totally vegan, along with all-vegan drinks and gluten-free beer. They’ve got vegan versions of everything from classics like Millionaire’s Shortbread to speciality bakes like their incredible Biscoff Blondie. They also make celebration cakes to order, so if you’re in need of a plant-based party piece, make sure to check out what they’ve got on offer.

Hillgate Cakery, 22 Lower Millgate, Stockport SK1 1JE, Tel: 0161 477 5583
Dig through the crates at SK1 Records

Located in the heart of Stockport’s Old Town, bright and airy SK1 Records don’t just limit themselves to vinyl (although they certainly have an excellent selection). If you visit them, you can also pick up CDs and tapes, as well as indulging in some tea or coffee and maybe one of their delicious cakes. If you love a good dig through a treasure trove of music finds, or even just a bit of people watching, make sure to check out SK1.

SK1 Records, 17 Little Underbank, Stockport SK1 1LA, Tel: 0161 474 1233
Discover some treasure at Agapanthus Interiors

Antique restoration shop Agapanthus Interiors specialises in European chandeliers and hand-painted unique furniture — sounds pretty niche, but there’s plenty of treasure to uncover in their beautiful old shop located in a late Victorian building. Whether you’re just looking to discover something unexpected or beautiful, or you have a specific mission (they have a workshop where you can have your furniture painted to the look you have in mind), it’s well worth paying Agapanthus a visit to see what you might find.

77 Wellington Street, Hillgate, Stockport SK1 1FE, Tel: 0161 429 9710
Wed 6 Jan
Words:
Amy Callaghan
Published on:
Wed 6 Jan 2021