Discover the Best Charity Shops in London: Hidden Gems for Ethical Shopping in 2025
- comedyinyoureye
- Oct 6
- 13 min read
If you’re looking for the best charity shops in London, you’re in for a treat. London’s charity shops are packed with everything from designer labels to quirky vintage bits, and shopping here actually helps a good cause. Whether you’re after a bargain, something unique, or just want to shop more sustainably, these shops are worth a visit. I’ve rounded up some of the real hidden gems you should check out in 2025. Honestly, you never know what you’ll find – I once picked up a jacket for a fiver that’s now my go-to for every night out. Here’s where to start your search for the best charity shops in London.
Key Takeaways
Charity shops in London are great for finding unique clothes and homeware at good prices.
Shopping second-hand helps the planet and supports important causes at the same time.
Each shop on this list has its own vibe and selection, so it’s worth visiting a few.
Some shops, like Traid and Crisis, are known for having a mix of vintage and high street labels.
You never know what you’ll find – from designer bargains to everyday basics, it’s always a bit of an adventure.
1. The Salvation Army, Hackney
You never quite know what you’re going to uncover at The Salvation Army on Mare Street, Hackney, but that’s half the fun. Walk in on a Saturday morning and, honestly, it’s got that proper old school jumble sale feel—rails of vintage shirts pressed up against quirky knick-knacks, with a friendly team behind the till who always seem to spot newcomers straight away. If treasure hunting is your thing, you'll be happy to know it's packed with one-off finds at prices that won't make you wince.
Some folks rate this spot for its sheer variety, from designer bits (think: Maggie finds a Margiela dress, Sally scores a 90s Gucci number—could be your lucky day) to classic homeware and, sometimes, a wild lampshade or two. Your spend here goes right back into local welfare work, making each little discovery feel even better. For those after bigger or more unique home pieces, the range of vintage furnishings at other Salvation Army branches like Wood Green can also be worth a peek.
What you'll find at Hackney's shop:
Rails of men's and women's clothing, often with true vintage pieces
Shelves packed with odd home items—lovely for a new flat or just because
Hidden designer labels if you feel like sifting
Days Open | Usual Hours |
|---|---|
Monday-Saturday | 10:00-18:00 |
Sunday | Closed |
Sometimes it’s about the thrill of the rummage, not the label. Leave enough time—dig deep and there’s a good chance you’ll come away with something special (and a story or two).
2. Traid, Dalston
Strolling down Kingsland High Street, it's hard to miss Traid, Dalston. The shop isn’t your average thrift spot; it’s packed with rails of second-hand clothes that feel fresh and well selected. What’s especially notable about Traid is its commitment to breaking the habit of clothing waste. Their mission goes beyond outfits – every item helps reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion, and all proceeds support projects tackling textile poverty.
There’s always something unique on the vintage rails, from punchy, colourful jackets to retro skirts.
Staff are friendly and know their stuff—they keep the shop tidy and make sifting through the stock pleasantly easy.
Shoppers rave about finding one-of-a-kind pieces, but it's best to check the rails regularly as good finds don't stay long.
Here are a few things you can expect when visiting Traid in Dalston:
Feature | What to Expect |
|---|---|
Pricing | Affordable |
Stock Turnover | High, changes daily |
Special Finds | Vintage & designer item |
Shop Size | Medium, easy to browse |
If you care about making your wardrobe more ethical, Traid offers a real chance to shop with a purpose. Just be prepared to spend a while—you'll probably find more than you bargained for.
That said, some reviewers have had mixed experiences with Traid.org.uk online, so your in-store visit might be a better bet for a proper rummage and a friendly chat with staff.
3. Mary's Living & Giving Shop, Blackheath
Tucked away in the heart of Blackheath village, Mary's Living & Giving Shop stands out as a real gem for anyone hunting for special finds. This place feels more like a tiny boutique than your average charity shop. The shop is neat, with a tidy layout that makes it easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed. You'll spot racks filled with quality vintage, high street, and sometimes even luxury brands—all at surprisingly modest prices.
Here’s what makes it special:
Regular arrivals of designer labels and unique vintage pieces
Carefully curated displays that look Instagram-ready but keep things approachable
Friendly volunteers who genuinely care about both the cause and the shoppers
If you're the kind who gets a thrill from finding a hidden gem, this is the right spot. Everyone from students to young families to smartly-dressed locals can be found poking through the latest stock. People talk about finding brilliant bargains here—sometimes even one-off garments you’d never expect outside of central London.
Step inside for a quiet shopping experience that actually makes you want to slow down and look at each rack. Sometimes, you’ll walk out with much more than what you came for—but that’s half the fun.
All proceeds go to Save the Children, so every purchase directly does a bit of good. If you’re planning a trip, try to go mid-week for the best selection—weekends can get busy.
Quick facts:
Address | 10 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, London SE3 0TA |
|---|---|
Opening Hours | Mon–Sat: 10am–6pm, Sun: 11am–5pm |
Average Price (£) | 5 – 80 |
Honestly, it’s one of those places that keeps you coming back, just to see what turns up next.
4. British Red Cross, Notting Hill
If you’re strolling along Portobello Road and fancy a proper charity shop experience, the British Red Cross in Notting Hill is worth your time. It’s got that old-school charity shop vibe: tightly packed rails, an ever-changing jumble of clothes, random bric-à-brac, and the occasional designer name peeking out if you’re patient. I remember once squeezing past someone hunting for records, only to tumble onto a pure cashmere jumper that must have been marked at a tenth of its value. Honestly, it’s one of those places where perseverance really pays off.
Here’s what stands out about the British Red Cross shop here:
There’s an unpredictable mix of high street and the unexpected – think vintage jackets, silk scarves, and even the odd evening dress.
Stock truly rotates quickly; if you see something you like, grab it fast because it probably won’t be there the next day.
The volunteers are pretty knowledgeable; they’ll happily tell you what’s new in or help you find a quirky gift for that mate who has everything.
If you’ve got donations, this is the spot. They really appreciate clean, wearable clothes, and they don’t just throw sub-par bits in the bin – anything unsaleable gets recycled, which keeps things out of landfill. Shoppers also mention that the environment is easy-going; browsing feels relaxed and no one rushes you.
Sometimes, after a long chaotic day, wandering through here for twenty minutes makes everything feel lighter — you might leave with just a second-hand mug or a book, but it always feels like a win.
Here’s a quick look at when to visit, based on my own trial and error:
Day | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|
Monday | Early afternoon |
Friday | Morning |
Saturday | Right after opening |
Whether you’re on a mission for a statement piece, or just killing time before a coffee stop around the corner, this Red Cross shop brings both the joy of bargain-hunting and the good feeling that your finds help fund important work.
5. Shop From Crisis, Finsbury Park
Hidden away on Stroud Green Road, Shop From Crisis in Finsbury Park is one of those places that regulars almost want to keep secret. The shop is known for its ever-changing stock and a mix of great labels, streetwear, and some proper vintage treasures. One afternoon, you might find a pristine designer tote or rare pair of trainers; the next, it’s all about sturdy high street jumpers and quirky retro accessories. Because so many locals come in nearly every day, the rotation is genuinely fast—you rarely see the same shelf twice in a week.
When it comes to what they offer, here’s what keeps people coming back:
Constantly fresh clothing, thanks to quick turnover and dedicated donations.
A friendly vibe—staff are real people who greet you, chat, and actually remember your last find.
Peak shopping during London Fashion Week, when they release some of the best saved-up stock.
Type of Item | Average Price (£) | Frequency on Shelves |
|---|---|---|
Designer Jackets | 25–50 | Weekly |
High Street Fashion | 8–15 | Daily |
Vintage Accessories | 6–20 | Bi-weekly |
If you’re after a place where you can shop, chat, and maybe even spot an unbelievable bargain, this is it. Regulars say you hardly leave empty-handed here, and honestly, they might be right.
Whether you’re new to thrifting or looking to score something unique, Shop From Crisis, Finsbury Park just feels like part of the neighbourhood. You won’t find overpriced trend pieces here—just honest finds and good company. If you haven’t tried it yet, take a punt. You might spot your new favourite thing, and at the same time, know your money is helping to end homelessness.
6. Oxfam, Westbourne Grove
Tucked away in Notting Hill, Oxfam on Westbourne Grove is more than your standard charity shop. Locals and regulars rave about it for good reason: it has a bit of a boutique vibe, but without the usual price tag. You’ll often spot a real mix of labels here—from high street to the occasional piece of vintage designer.
What really stands out at this branch is how carefully everything is organised. You won’t find yourself elbow-deep in messy rails. Instead, each item seems thoughtfully chosen and displayed. Here’s what you can expect to find:
Quality clothing, both current trends and quirky vintage finds
A surprisingly large selection of accessories—think leather bags, hats, and scarves
Books and records, always in decent condition
Prices can range quite a bit:
Item Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
Dresses | £8 – £25 |
Shoes | £10 – £40 |
Handbags | £12 – £60 |
Books | £2 – £5 |
One thing to keep in mind: popular pieces move fast. If you see something you like, it’s best to grab it then and there. Staff are friendly and always happy to chat or point you in the right direction if you’re after something in particular.
Westbourne Grove’s Oxfam is the kind of place where you might just find your next favourite outfit, all while helping others.
7. Shop From Crisis, Hackney
Tucked away on Mare Street, Shop From Crisis, Hackney, manages to stand out even in a city bursting with great charity shops. This spot is a favourite among serious thrifters and those just dipping a toe into secondhand shopping. It’s known for two things: a solid mix of stylish high street clothes and one-off vintage treasures. The rails are always turning over, which means every visit brings a new surprise.
Expect to spot quality labels as well as quirky statement items from decades past
Accessories here are worth a serious look – you’ll find bags, shoes, even scarves that feel unique but not overpriced
The staff are helpful and genuinely seem to enjoy chatting about their own finds
If you're hunting for MARY Pre-Loved pieces or just want to refresh your wardrobe without the guilt of fast fashion, this shop is a go-to.
On busy weekends, the shop buzzes with locals, fashion students and bargain hunters, all hunting for that one item they didn’t know they needed – proof that charity shopping is still very much alive in Hackney.
Shop Details:
Address | 330 Mare St, London E8 1HA |
|---|---|
Opening Hours | Mon–Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 11am–5pm |
Nearest Station | Hackney Central |
One last thing: proceeds go to Crisis, which supports people experiencing homelessness. So your shop does more than just clean your conscience – it helps someone else directly. If you time it right, you might even catch a special sale event or a railside chat with a local designer dropping off stock.
8. FARA Charity Shop, Portobello
Walking into FARA Charity Shop just off Portobello Road, you’ll notice straight away how lively it feels. There’s always a mix of folks poking through the rails – locals with a sharp eye for fashion, students after a warm jumper, sometimes even tourists snapping a quick photo of the shop windows. This shop is known for its eye-catching window displays and ever-changing racks of second-hand gems.
Here’s why FARA Portobello is on my must-visit list:
You’ll spot all sorts of labels, from high-street names to the odd bit of designer if you’re lucky.
Prices are fair, so you don’t feel like you’re priced out of finding something fun.
Every item sold supports vulnerable children and young people in Romania, making your haul mean something beyond just a wardrobe refresh.
The staff are usually welcoming, happy to chat about the latest finds or tell you a bit about the charity’s work. There’s less of that ‘cramped jumble’ vibe you get in some charity shops, too – it’s wonderfully organised and honestly, some days the displays make it tricky to believe you’re in a second-hand store at all.
If you’ve got donations, they take most items – and anything that doesn’t sell gets recycled, not trashed. That little bit of care for the environment means a lot, especially in a city that’s trying to cut down on waste.
Location | Address | Opening Hours |
|---|---|---|
FARA Portobello | 10 Elgin Cres, W11 2HX | Mon-Sun: 10–18 |
One of the best parts about shopping here is never knowing what you’ll find – last week my friend picked up a vintage jacket, while I scored a practically-new book for £2. Shopping with a clear conscience never felt so rewarding.
9. British Red Cross, Kensington and Chelsea
Ask any keen second hand shopper about London charity shops and chances are the British Red Cross in Kensington and Chelsea will come up. It’s known for its remarkable choice of pre-loved designer fashion—from shoes you’ll wish fit to occasionwear you usually only dream of. The prices here might be a bit more than you’d expect in a charity shop, but you’re getting unique, high-end pieces that would cost triple elsewhere. Honestly, if you’re searching for something standout for a party, or even a wedding guest look, this spot in SW3 feels like a secret alternative to high street boutiques.
Here’s what you can expect when browsing the rails on Old Church Street:
An ever-changing collection (no two visits are the same)
Rails packed with luxury brands — think Manolo Blahnik, Dior, and some very tempting vintage finds
A patient, welcoming team who don’t mind if you spend an hour debating between two coats
If you’re hoping for inspiration before a big event, particularly something special like a wedding guest outfit in London, the shop’s a favourite among locals who want high-end style but favour sustainable choices.
What You'll Find | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
Designer Handbags | £60 – £200+ |
Vintage Dresses | £30 – £150 |
Scarves & Jewellery | £10 – £80 |
Men’s Blazers | £40 – £120 |
The best days are when something unexpected turns up—maybe a 90s Dior shoe or a handmade silk dress—making it feel like a tiny treasure hunt each time. There’s a real thrill in knowing you’ve scored something special that gives back twice: to your wardrobe and to charity.
10. Oxfam, Marylebone
Nestled right on Marylebone High Street, Oxfam Marylebone is the sort of place where you might pop in for a quick browse and end up walking out with a designer blazer or a unique vintage record. The shop has a knack for attracting high-quality donations – think pre-loved Ralph Lauren, a bit of YSL, the odd Gucci scarf. On my most recent trip, I spotted a Barbour jacket in almost-new condition tucked between rows of smart menswear, and a shelf stacked with gently used cookbooks and ceramics.
Oxfam Marylebone curates its stock really well, grouping designer finds together and keeping everything tidy, which makes hunting for a bargain less of a chore and more of a treat. It's not unusual to see a local or two drop in, and a steady flow of staff is always on hand if you're unsure about prices or fits. Prices aren’t rock bottom – it’s common to see blazers for £40-£50 – but for the labels on offer and the good state these clothes are in, it genuinely feels like a steal.
Here's what you’ll typically find in the shop:
Racks of labelled designer fashion, in great condition
A section for books, vinyl, and homeware that changes often
Occasion pieces mixed in with everyday essentials
Bags and shoes, sometimes proper vintage, sometimes high street
Category | Typical Range |
|---|---|
Blazers/Jackets | £35–£60 |
Dresses | £15–£40 |
Books & Records | £2–£8 |
Accessories | £5–£35 |
A fun extra: the location is handy if you want to explore other nearby charity shops, as Marylebone is known for a tight cluster of good ones. For anyone staying centrally, it's a must-stop along the charity shop trail – you could easily build a half-day trip around this area, and that's the kind of suggestion you’ll see often in discussions about charity shops near Waterloo.
There’s something oddly cheerful about finding last season’s luxury shirt hanging alongside a dog-eared novel, and knowing your cash is going somewhere it’ll do some good, too. It reminds you that shopping doesn’t have to be all about splurging; it can be giving back, too.
Wrapping Up: Charity Shop Treasures Await
So, that’s my round-up of the best charity shops in London. Honestly, there’s something special about wandering into a shop and not knowing what you’ll find—maybe a designer jacket, maybe a book you forgot you wanted, or just a friendly chat with the staff. Shopping second-hand isn’t just about saving money (though that’s always a bonus), it’s about giving clothes and things another chance, and helping out some good causes along the way. Next time you’re out and about, skip the big chains and pop into a local charity shop. You never know what you’ll come home with, and you’ll feel better for it. Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I shop at charity shops in London?
Shopping at charity shops helps the environment by reusing clothes and items instead of buying new ones. It also supports important causes, as the money you spend goes to charities that help people, animals, and the planet.
Are the clothes and items in charity shops good quality?
Yes, many charity shops in London have high-quality clothes, shoes, books, and more. You can find designer brands, vintage pieces, and items in great condition for much less than in regular shops.
Can I donate my old clothes to these charity shops?
Most charity shops accept donations of clothes and other items. It’s best to check their website or call ahead, as some shops only take donations at certain times or have rules about what they can accept.
Is it cheaper to shop at charity shops?
Charity shops usually offer lower prices than high street shops. You can often find great deals, especially on branded or vintage items. This makes it easier to shop for more while spending less.
Do charity shops only sell clothes?
No, charity shops in London sell much more than just clothes. You can also find books, toys, homeware, accessories, and sometimes even furniture. Each shop is different, so it’s fun to explore and see what treasures you can find.
How often do charity shops get new stock?
Charity shops get new items all the time because people donate regularly. It’s a good idea to visit often, as the best finds can go quickly and there’s always something new to discover.