Rough Trade started as a record shop in London back in the late 1970s and has since become a bit of an institution for anyone serious about music. Their shops and website focus mainly on vinyl records and CDs, but they also stock music-related books, magazines and band merchandise. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find indie, punk, alternative, and some mainstream releases, but it’s the niche and cult artists that get the spotlight more often. People who shop here tend to be collectors or just those who appreciate the whole vinyl experience, not just the music.
The website is straightforward enough, offering new releases alongside reissues and limited runs, which vinyl enthusiasts particularly like. Rough Trade also runs a few physical shops around the UK, but the online store is where you’ll find the full range. Prices are fairly standard – not the cheapest out there, but the selection and quality are decent. Shipping is reliable, though it can be a bit slow during busy periods. If you’re after a specific pressing or want to support independent music retailers, this is a solid place to check. The only downside might be that the site doesn’t always have sales or discounts, so patience pays off.