Whether you love gothic Victoriana, are obsessed with the swinging '60s or love a bit of mid-century modernism, Manchester has plenty of places for you to find a special vintage piece to add to your home décor.
Levenshulme Antiques Village
Host to nine antiques businesses, Levenshulme Antiques Village really is a melting pot of different eras, styles and pieces. Set in the Victorian Old Town Hall, the building itself is impressive but prepare to have your breath taken away when you step inside this veritable treasure trove. Find collectible and classic vinyl from John In the Yard, check out the gorgeous art nouveau fireplaces in Adlington Architectural Antiques, or nip into Soup for vintage clothing, curios and artwork.
The Old Town Hall, 965 Stockport Road, Levenshulme.
Planet Vintage Girl
If you're a mid-century obsessive this is the place for you. Specialising in 20th century items, Planet Vintage Girl will feed your fancy with their carefully selected pieces. You should expect to pay the price in this place so probably not the best if you’re looking for a cheap little trinket, but if you’re looking for quality vintage and have the cash to splash visit Planet Vintage Girl to buy the best. Alternatively, ogle their goods and add them to your wish list to save for a rainy day - but don’t be surprised if they’re snapped up sharpish.
Empire House Vintage Warehouse, Oldham Road/Wrigley Head, Failsworth.
InSitu Architectural Salvage
Starting their business as a reclaimed door and fireplace seller InSitu has grown into a thriving business based on procuring classic design pieces. InSitu has everything you need and everything you didn’t know you needed until you walked through their doors. They cater to all tastes with church salvage (fancy a font as your bathroom sink?) remnants of old cinemas ('20s cinema seats at your dining table?) colourful vintage bathroom pieces (art deco pink bidet?) and much, much more.
252 Chester Road, Hulme.
Empire Exchange
If you’ve ever lived in or visited Manchester chances are you’ve come across the Empire Exchange. Known for blasting out music on a Saturday and the vast array of strange items in its window, it’s a long loved Manchester institution. The best way to tell you what’s available is to ask what can’t you find on its shelves or in its glass cabinets. From kitsch royal memorabilia, to first presses of records, to Beatle fan magazines, or the whole table dedicated to back issues of 'Private Eye', you will never leave this place empty handed and your home will be all the better for it.
1 Newton Street, city centre.
Pop Boutique
Pop is more than just a clothing store - go down to their basement and you'll find a huge array of homeware, from retro '50s sofas to '60s sideboards. Pay particular attention to the corner with one of a kind lampshades and cushions in, they're the perfect way to add character to a room at a minor cost.
34-36 Oldham Street, Northern Quarter.
See more things to do in Manchester from Time Out.