It’s never been more important to support your local independents, so see how many of these you can tick off.
Bored of the same old, same old on the high street? Well, luckily for you, there’s no shortage of wonderful independent stores in Leeds. If you want to shop Scandi-inspired homeware, grab some tasty craft beers or acquire the trendiest retro garms, this is the place to be. To make it easy for you, we’ve rounded up the best amongst them – go on, what are you waiting for? It’s time to plan your next spree!
Plant Point
Step into Plant Point and you may think you’ve been transported to a tropical rainforest – but don’t be fooled, you’re actually in Leeds Corn Exchange. They specialise in the most beautiful indoor plants, from succulent terrariums to aloe vera.
The owners, sisters Sonia and Ada, are on hand to give you all the magic plant advice, so let them guide you to creating your very own beautiful green sanctuary, be it in your living room or workspace.
Plant Point, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Ryan Vintage
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Ryan Vintage – it’s in the name. Enter this Duncan Street stalwart and you’ll be met with a whole load of retro goodies and accessories at proper bargainous prices – they’re one of the longest running and best value vintage clothing shops in Leeds.
They’re big on everything sporty, from your Adidas to your Nike, but you might even encounter the odd Gucci scarf or Burberry bag if you rummage around this treasure trove for long enough.
Ryan Vintage, 13 Duncan Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6DQ.
The Chilli Shop
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For those who like it hot, a visit to The Chilli Shop is in order. Celebrating all things spicy and fiery, they flog everything from chilli jams and hot sauces to cheeses and chocolates – you can even prank your friends with a pack of the world’s hottest gummy bears.
They host regular ‘Hot Ones’ events at local bars, so why not go head to head with your friends and see who can handle the highest heat possible? Good luck!
The Chilli Shop, Merrion Centre, 70 Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8LW.
Accent Clothing
You can find Accent Clothing’s flagship store in Leeds’ historic Queens Arcade, where they’ve been a leading retail destination for contemporary and designer clothing for four decades.
Inside you’ll find an impressive collection of big names, from Barbour and Balenciaga to Saint Lauren and Stella McCartney. What’s more, their staff are verified denim experts, so if you want a new pair, this is the place to go.
Accent Clothing, 11-13 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.
Northern Guitars
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Beers, guitars and live music… does it get any better than that? As well as hosting a variety of free gigs and regular open mic nights, Northern Guitars also doubles up as a guitar shop for working musicians.
Having been in business for over 25 years now, they pride themselves on having a great range of affordable and vintage guitars and gear in shop, and they certainly won’t be beaten on price or expertise.
Northern Guitars, 41 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BT.
Colours May Vary
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Colours May Vary is one of the coolest independent book shops in Leeds, although you won’t find any heavy classics in here, oh no. Step inside and be greeted by a cornucopia of carefully-curated fashion and design mags, prints, coffee table books, homeware, stationery and more.
They source their collections both locally and internationally, from a mix of established and up-and-coming-makers, so you know this is stuff you won’t find anywhere else.
Colours May Vary, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Vinyl Whistle
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Nestled away in the heart of Headingley, Vinyl Whistle is a record store-cum-cafe that’s definitely worth seeking out. The shop spans two floors and four rooms, with genres covering everything from rock to reggae.
You can even try before you buy with their dedicated listening booth, compete with turntables and headphones. When you’re all shopped out, why not sit down for a cup of Fairtrade coffee or a pint of Kirkstall Brewery’s finest?
The Vinyl Whistle, 12 Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2AD.
Bramley Wholefoods & Eco Shop by ecoTopia
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Bramley Wholefoods is a zero waste and refill shop who compare their prices regularly with everyday supermarkets, so you can spend less while living sustainably. Simply bring your container, weigh it and then fill it to the brim with essentials.
They have everything from soft drinks to mayonnaise, but there’s also an array of sustainable toiletries, books and stationery – you can even satisfy your sweet tooth with their delish vegan pick ’n’ mix!
Bramley Wholefoods & Eco Shop, 23 Bramley Centre, Bramley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS13 2ET.
Chirpy
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In the market for quirky gifts and unique knick-knacks? Chirpy’s got you covered. The Chapel Allerton workspace doubles as a lifestyle store and they stay stocked up on all the one-of-a-kind bits and pieces you didn’t know you needed.
From vibrant vases to kooky candle holders, stationary, prints and more, they’ve got it all. They also host events including workshops where you can get your hands dirty and make something of your own.
Chirpy, 148 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4NZ.
Seagulls
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Since they set up shop in 2004, Seagulls have established themselves as trailblazers of a niche market. They’re an independent paint shop with a difference – they collect, re-process and re-sell leftover paints so nothing goes to waste.
Their team are happy to whip up any colour chart, and also run regular workshops where they specialise in a range of disciplines, from painting and decorating to mosaic.
Seagulls, 129 Water Lane, Holbeck, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS11 9UD.
The Green Yard
Found in the Headingley Enterprise and Arts Centre, The Green Yard is a family-run business who stock a wide variety of easy care house plants – they have it all, from yuccas and cacti to pothos and snake plants.
If you’re looking for something that’s a little more exotic, though, why not go for the tropical bird’s nest fern? Make sure to grab a bag of their peat-free potting compost on your way out too.
The Green Yard, HEART Centre, Bennett Road, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 3HN.
The Little Bookshop
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The only independent children’s book shop in Leeds, The Little Bookshop is the perfect place for the whole family to explore literature and illustration. They have a carefully curated selection of children’s reads spanning all genres and ages, so your little one will have their nose in a book in no time.
What’s more, they hold regular events, from reading sessions with popular children’s writers to illustration workshops.
The Little Bookshop, 47 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3PD.
Flavour Like Fancy
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Flavour Like Fancy has it all. A colourful gift shop sitting slap-bang in the middle of central Headingley, it’s the brainchild of Tasha Grant, who has a passion for supporting the handmade industry and dopamine living.
At the store, and online, you’ll find delights such as hydroponic vases, colourful crotchet pillows, macrame hangers and much more. Aside from their stunning product range, they also host in-store workshops and community events.
Flavour Like Fancy, Arndale Centre, Otley Road, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2UE.
Indie Makers
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Nestled away on the first floor of Leeds Corn Exchange, Indie Makers is a store all about supporting the local makers, artists and designers of the UK – if you’re seeking fun and unique handmade gifts, this is the place to be.
Expect funky prints, quirky tote bags, homemade soap bars and bath bombs, and that’s not even scratching the surface. Their products and suppliers change on a regular basis, so no two visits are ever the same.
Indie Makers, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Caspar’s Bottle Shop
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Caspar’s Bottle Shop pride themselves on bringing great booze to the people of Leeds. On offer are beers from the best up-and-coming local breweries like The Meanwood Brewery and Abbeydale Brewery.
They do also however look further afield for international favourites, from Norwegian brewery Amundsen to Denmark’s Mikkeller. They have four keg taps with an ever-changing array of beers to keep things fresh.
Caspar’s Bottle Shop, 65 Potternewton Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3LW.
With Love
f you’re celebrating a special occasion with your nearest and dearest, With Love is the place to go. This Oakwood gift shop has been standing for over 40 years, supplying locals with all their gifting needs.
From sentimental (and satirical) cards to Jellycat plushies, birthday balloons, and a whole load of personalisable prezzies, they’ve got it all– because nothing says ‘I’m thinking of you’ like a giant Toblerone with your name on it.
With Love, 633b Roundhay Road, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS8 4BA.
Truman Books
An independent bookshop-cum-cafe in Leeds, Truman Books is the perfect place to grab your next read and also a bite to eat. Born from owner Amanda Truman’s long-held dream, the shop is filled to bursting with much-loved books.
You’ll be browsing genres like biography, history, gardening and more, with a dedicated children’s section. After you’re done, delve into your book with a cuppa and a homemade cake.
Truman Books, 95 Town Street, Farsley, Pudsey, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS28 5HX.
Masato Jones
Located in the vibrant Thornton’s Arcade, Masato Jones is a one-of-a-kind, independent fashion retailer in Leeds. The boutique was founded by a Japanese-born designer of the same name, who earned his stripes studying womenswear at the esteemed Central St Martins university before moving to Leeds and opening his first store.
His signature style is marked by bold, playful prints, intricate tailoring and quality fabrics such as Japanese cotton. Everyone can find unique pieces in there, with made-to-measure services available to ensure whatever you buy fits like a glove. Masato also offers one-to-one tutoring in his first floor atélier, where people can learn garment making and pattern cutting from a pro – hidden gem is an understatement!
Masato Jones, 5 Thornton’s Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.
Tandem
If you’re looking for one of the best independent lifestyle stores in Leeds, a trip to Tandem is in order. Owners Hannah and Hatty, who double as designers, have a love of interior styling, and have created Tandem’s bohemian look with a variety of carefully curated stock.
Inside you’ll find homeware, gifts, mid-century furniture and more – you can even get your hands on a range of home-baked goods and a takeaway coffee.
Tandem, 574 Meanwood Road, Meanwood, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 4AZ.
Wayward Wines
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If you’re a fan of wine, a visit to Wayward Wines is a must. They specialise in pure organic wines with a hand-picked selection of natural vino from across the globe. Whilst you’re there, why not stick around for a glass or two?
Stick to what you know with Merlot, or push the boat out with the Montepulciano, with sour cherry and tart fruit undertones. If you’re unsure where to start, you can always sample your way to a new favourite.
Wayward Wines, 1C Regent Street, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4PE.
Giant Kitten
An independent store in Leeds Corn Exchange, Giant Kitten is teeming with the kitsch, quirky and kawaii. They specialise in Japanese goodies, both vintage and new, which they import themselves, so this is the only place you’ll find them in Leeds.
Elsewhere, fashion you won’t find on the high street lines the rails, as well as an adorable collection of plush toys you won’t be able to resist.
Giant Kitten, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Woodrup Cycles
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Woodrup Cycles have been loyal leaders of the Yorkshire cycling community for over seven decades now. Although they’re traditionally associated with road racing and time trialling, they now cater to all cyclists, stocking manufacturers such as Bianchi and Haibike.
So, whether mountain biking, road racing or gravel biking is your thing, their refined bike and accessory ranges ensure the smoothest journey possible.
Woodrup Cycles, 345-347 Kirkstall Road, Burley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS4 2HD.
Blue Rinse
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With humble beginnings as a stall on Leeds Market, Blue Rinse has now established themselves as one of the best independent vintage stores in the city. They currently have two stores in Leeds, both bursting at the seams with handpicked gems.
From varsity jackets to 70’s flares, their wares are impressive, but it’s their Remade in England collection that really takes the biscuit, where vintage picks are given a new lease of life.
Blue Rinse, 14 Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7DH & Unit 20-22, The Merrion Centre, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 8NG.
OK Comics
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Celebrating all things comics and graphic novels for over 20 years now, OK Comics host an impressive catalogue in their Thornton’s Arcade store. They stock every type of comic and graphic novel, from great independent books such as ‘Nao of Brown’ to the latest superhero action adventure comics like ‘Spiderman’.
They stock signed copies, run events and even have multiple Eisner nominations to their name, so you know that they’re the real deal.
OK Comics, 19 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.
The Great Yorkshire Shop
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There’s a reason why Yorkshire’s commonly referred to as God’s Own County, and The Great Yorkshire Shop is a testament to that. They hand-pick fine goods exclusively from the local independent makers, artists and designers of Yorkshire.
Amongst this veritable treasure trove you’ll find everything from Yorkshire dialect tote bags to traditional wool flat caps. They even stock food and drink, including local favourites Cartwright & Butler.
The Great Yorkshire Shop, Leeds Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Village
You’ll find Village sitting pretty in Thornton’s Arcade, above Welcome Skatestore. They pride themselves on platforming local artists and photographers, as seen in their selection of self-published, small press zines, hard-to-find magazines and unique contemporary art.
You can even head up to their not-for-profit-gallery space, where you can catch talks, book launches and rotating exhibitions.
Village, 10-12 Thornton’s Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.
Aladdin’s Cave
Jewellery lovers have flocked to Aladdin’s Cave in the Queen’s Arcade for over four decades now. The family-owned business was founded in the early 1980s, and has become a Leeds legend due to their seriously impressive range of one-off items and antique jewellery expertise.
Whether you’re looking to splash out on an Edwardian opal ring or an Art Deco citrine necklace, their expert team is on hand to help you find that special piece.
Aladdin’s Cave, 19 Queens Arcade, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LF.
On The Wall
Looking to spruce up your boring old bedroom walls? There’s only once place to visit – On The Wall. One of the best independent picture retailers in Leeds, this store has everything you need for a splash of colour.
Their art collection spans natural history, Japanese art and vintage comic, with a poster section for film and music buffs. They even offer an in-store framing service, so all the hard work is done for you.
On The Wall, Unit 7CA, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Welcome Skate Store
Welcome is one of the best known and most highly regarded skateboard stores not just in Leeds, but the whole of the country. Owned and operated by seasoned skaters, it’s home to the best in skateboard hardware, alongside footwear, clothing and accessories.
Downstairs, they stock all the big names like Vans, Carhartt and New Balance, but upstairs is where you’ll find skateboards in every colour under the rainbow.
Welcome Skate Store, 22 Thornton’s Arcade, Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LQ.
Evergreen Gallery
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The simply stunning Evergreen Gallery is the craft gallery and studio of mother and son duo, Stephen and Anne Roper. They look to the natural world for their inspiration and inside you’ll find a contemporary mix of art, cards and textiles alongside carefully curated ceramics and art glass by leading UK makers.
It’s their jewellery that’s the real winner, though, with all pieces lovingly handmade inside the gallery’s studio.
Evergreen Gallery, The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Oakwood Vintage
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An independently owned furniture store in the heart of Chapel Allerton, Oakwood Vintage is the place to go for all of your retro homeware needs. All their stock is hand picked, so you’ll only find the highest quality pieces here.
You may be trying out a mid-century retro armchair one minute, and gazing upon an Art Deco-style side table the next. One thing’s for sure – whatever you pick will add a splash of character to any room.
Oakwood Vintage, 45 Gledhow Park Avenue, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4JL.
Jumbo Records
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Since they were established in 1971, Jumbo Records have proven themselves to be one of Leeds’ favourite independent shops. They are fiercely committed to supporting the region’s music scene, as well as up-and-coming artists from further afield.
Inside you’ll find a huge selection of records, with genres spanning hip-hop, country, reggae, electronica and more. You can snap up gig tickets here, too!
Jumbo Records, Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 8NG.
Armadillo Toys
Armadillo Toys are one of the only independent children’s toy shops in Leeds, and have been going strong since they set up shop two decades ago. They specialise in educational and wooden toys, and have a huge range of games and gifts for all ages.
They even have a story sack collection, where a book is paired with a character or animal that appears in the story – what better way to engage your little one in the art of reading?
Armadillo Toys, 112a Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 4NY.
Ace Jewellery
If you’re looking for unique, one-off items of jewellery you can wear exclusively, you need to visit Ace Jewellery. A small, independent jewellery shop that specialises in wedding and engagement rings, their team offer the perfect personal service.
They’ll talk you through the different settings, cuts and grades, so whether you want a princess cut or a solitaire ring, you’re in safe hands.
Ace Jewellery, 1 Lands Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6AW.
West Yorkshire Cameras
3,2,1… cheese! West Yorkshire Cameras is a specialist film camera store found in Grand Arcade, with an ever-changing array of shelves stocked with classic analogue gear.
They stock Canon, Nikon and Olympus cameras, alongside all the lenses, accessories and film you could ever need. If you’re unsure of what you’re looking for, their team of photography wizards are always on hand to assist.
West Yorkshire Cameras, 20 Grand Arcade, Merrion Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.
Latitude Wine and Liquor Merchants
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It’s always wine o’clock at Latitude Wine and Liquor Merchants – well, it’s in the name really. These guys are experts in all things high-quality wine and spirits, only selling vintages they’ve personally tried and enjoyed, with over 1,300 bottles on the shelves, from medium-bodied Merlots to crisp Sauvignon Blancs.
Wine not your tipple of choice? Don’t fret, they have a stellar line-up of spirits and local beers, too. The tasting area in their new location makes it even more of a must-visit.
Latitude Wine & Liquor Merchant, 46 The Calls, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 7EY.
Crash Records
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A cornerstone of the city’s independent music scene for 40 years now, Crash Records is one of the best independent record stores in Leeds. They specialise in indie, alternative and metal artists on both vinyl and CD, with racks lining the walls upstairs and down.
They have an ever-changing range of local stock in shop, and if there’s something they don’t have, they’ll even order it in from one of the many labels and distributors they work with.
Crash Records, 35 The Headrow, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PU.
All Blues Co
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For the freshest threads possible, head to All Blues Co in Leeds Corn Exchange. Since their establishment in 2016, they’ve proven themselves to be one of the most stylish menswear stores, stocking a curation of premium ranges from across the globe, many of which you won’t find elsewhere in Leeds.
That’s not to mention the exclusive collaborations they’ve worked on with high-end Laboureur, Barbarian Sportswear and Harley of Scotland.
All Blues Co, Unit C3x, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 7BR.
Global Tribe
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If you’re mad about crystals and minerals, Global Tribe is the go-to independent shop in Leeds for spiritual healing. Since they first opened their doors in 1999, they’ve served thousands of customers with a whole host of crystals, from a range of over 225 tumbled stones to amethyst geodes worth as much as £5,000.
They import their precious stones directly from Brazil, Chile, Sri Lanka and beyond, so you know their stock is the highest quality it possibly can be.
Global Tribe, 18 Swan Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LG.
North South Vintage
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North South Vintage is a favourite with the students of Leeds and it’s easy to see why. An independent vintage clothing store with handpicked goodies galore, they pride themselves in providing designer garments, whether it be Carhartt jeans or Harley Davidson hoodies.
Their stock covers decades of coolness, from the 70s all the way to the 00s, but you can rest assured that their wares never go out of fashion.
North South Vintage, 8-10 Headingley Lane, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS6 2AS.
Fabrication Crafts
Fabrication is a gift shop and a social enterprise that supports local micro craft and design businesses, so you’re supporting not just one independent, but over 100.
There’s a whole host of items to browse, with goodies from Indigo Star Jewellery, Kemp Arts, My Little Craft Corner and more on display. They also run craft workshops throughout the year, so you can become a dab hand in all things crafts yourself.
Fabrication Crafts, 83 Briggate, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6LH.
Chevin Cycles
Stuck on where to go bicycle shopping in Leeds? Let us introduce you to Chevin Cycles, one of the best independent bike stores in the whole of the UK. They’ve been providing cyclists with the finest clothing to go with the best bikes for over 40 years now.
Step inside their showroom and you’ll find big names like Trek, Raleigh and Cannondale. Whether you like road or trail, commuting or mountain biking, you’re sure to snag some great stuff here.
Chevin Cycles, The Showrooms, Gay Lane, Otley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS21 1BR.
Zerø Muda
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Horsforth’s original refill store, Zerø Muda is an environmentally-conscious shop where you can get your household essentials, plastic free.
Their shelves stock all of your household staples, from self-raising flour to green lentils – they even stock fresh sourdough loaves from Leeds Bread Co-op and organic fruit and vegetables from The Organic Pantry. What’s more, they give a share of their profits to community projects and charities.
Zerø Muda, 85 New Road Side, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4QD.
The Bookish Type
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You’ll find The Bookish Type in the heart of Leeds – an independent book store, they specialise in queer literature, from fiction to graphic novels. They’ve set out to champion LGBTQIA+ voices and realise the importance of seeing the community represented.
Get ready to familiarise yourself with classics from authors like Oscar Wilde and Octavia E. Butler, as well as up-and-coming queer creatives.
The Bookish Type, 77A Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3BR.
Our Handmade Collective
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A smorgasbord of unique gifts and homeware, Our Handmade Collective is one of the best independents in Leeds, located in Horsforth. Everything they sell has been lovingly handmade by over 100 carefully curated creatives, giving each piece a personal touch that you just can’t find at high-street stores.
There are ornaments, cushions, prints, jewellery and more, so if you’re out to do some gift shopping, you’re sure to find something special here.
Our Handmade Collective, 104 Town Street, Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS18 4AH.
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