Blackpool is awash with independent cafes, second hand stores, costume shops, hidden caves full of curios and treats. Just wander round but if you wanted some guaranteed gems check out the following independents leading the way.
Aunty Social and AltBlackpool
Aunty Social is a community interest company whose mission is to create a vibrant, active and diverse community in the Fylde Coast area through positive, sustainable arts, cultural and craft activities and tea and cake.
One of their initiatives is AltBlackpool, a magazine website that hosts alternative news, reviews and galleries about local arts activities written and documented by voluntary Blackpool arts and cultural commentators.
Blott Studios
Founded in 1998 by artist Corrine Streetly, Blott Studio showcases current members’ work and invited artists all year round, and members host an annual group exhibition of new works.
Corrine’s own range of ceramic and bone china mugs, postcards, postcard sets and cotton art bags are inspired by the people and landscape of Blackpool; a popular range includes prints of punks at the annual Rebellion festival.
Charabanc
Charabanc is part of the Aunty Social umbrella offer to sandgrown'uns and holiday makers alike. The range of vintage and hand-crafted goods, unique and quirky fashion items, cards, gifts and homewares are made by local artists, and their creativity knows no bounds!
Regent Antiques Emporium
First opened as the Regent Picture House in 1921, The Regent opened as an antiques hall in 2014. With a flea-market atmosphere, and a rich vein of local history running through it (not to mention the odd report of paranormal activity), The Regent offers an eclectic mix of antiques, crafts and jewellery.
Grundy Art Gallery Shop
The Grundy Art Gallery’s bijou retail offer has a fine selection of art books, jewellery and the best card selection on the Fylde Coast.