Written by Sophie Thomas
17 September, 2024 -
Angel is not just a place full of cosy pubs, delicious lunch spots and trendy restaurants. It's always home to a huge selection of charity shops, each offering great bargains and unique finds.
Rummaging through charity shops is surely one of life’s great pastimes. And with Angel’s diverse selection of second hand stores, you’re sure to find something special.
So, whether you’re searching for something to do on your lunch break, spending a Saturday afternoon browsing the shops, or looking to clear out your closet, here’s a rundown of some of the fantastic charity shops in Angel that are well worth a visit.
Oxfam Shop
First on our list is Oxfam. Known for its wide range of pre-loved treasures, including clothing, accessories, and homewares, the Angel branch is a must-visit. Located on Islington High Street, just a short walk from Angel tube station (and the Business Design Centre), the shop’s shelves are constantly refreshed with high-quality donations, making every visit a new adventure.
If you’re looking to donate, they welcome both clothing and home goods. Head into Angel and make a day of it, even grab a coffee or bite to eat while you are there.
Or, if you don’t feel like venturing to one of their stores, you can donate from the comfort of your own home. Just order a mailbag online and post your items for free of charge.
Oxfam Shop – Islington, 29 Islington High St, London N1 9LH
Cancer Research UK
Support life-saving research while indulging in some retail therapy at Cancer Research UK. Located on bustling Upper Street, this branch offers a fantastic selection of fashion, accessories, homeware, electricals, and more.
Whether you’re hunting for a chic new outfit, something to spruce up your home decor, or a useful new gadget, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
Every purchase directly supports critical cancer research, making your shopping experience even more meaningful. If you are looking to donate simply head to Angel and drop off your items in store.
Cancer Research UK – Islington, 34 Upper St, London N1 0PN
FARA Charity Shop
Located on Pentonville Road, the FARA Charity Shop is a hidden paradise for vintage lovers and those on the hunt for unique clothing and home items. This shop supports Romanian families and children in need with its thoughtful curation of pre-loved items and bric-a-brac.
FARA Islington features the best picks from over 40 charity shops across London, making it a treasure trove of high-quality, one-of-a-kind finds. From retro fashion to quirky home decor, there’s something for everyone at this charming charity shop.
Fara Charity Shop – Islington, Angel House, 28 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9HJ
Oxfam Book and Music
Just walk a bit further up from Oxfam’s main shop, and you’ll find another one of their wonderful stores. Perfect for bookworms and music lovers alike, this shop specialises in second-hand books, records, and CDs. It’s the ideal shop for anyone looking to expand their book or music collection without breaking the bank.
With a constantly rotating selection, every visit promises new gems to be discovered. Whether you’re hunting for a new vinyl or something new to read material, this shop has an extensive collection to choose from, all while supporting a great cause.
Oxfam Books & Music Islington, 48 Upper St, London N1 0PN
Sue Ryder
Sue Ryder is one of your go-to charity shops in Angel for everything, from fashionable clothing to practical furniture, all while supporting an incredible mission. Every item sold helps fund palliative, neurological, and bereavement care across the UK.
The shop offers a huge selection of pre-loved goods, from chic outfits and accessories to home essentials and decor pieces.
Whether you’re redecorating your home or refreshing your wardrobe, Sue Ryder provides quality finds at affordable prices. Plus the store is restocked multiple times a day, so there is always something new to find.
Mary’s Living & Giving Shop for Save the Children
Not your run-of-the-mill charity shop, this store is a favourite among the fashionistas of Angel. It offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality designer garments and accessories. Housed in a former bank on Upper Street, the shop is the perfect place to spend some time browsing.
Its beautiful blue shopfront and stunning window displays make it impossible to pass by without taking a peek inside. Plus, every purchase supports Save the Children, helping to improve the lives of children around the world.
Mary’s Living & Giving Shop For Save the Children, 138 Upper St, London N1 1QP
Boutique by Shelter
This chic pop up charity shop offers a carefully selected range of pre-loved fashion, including designer and vintage clothing, stylish accessories, and other standout pieces that will elevate your wardrobe. With all proceeds helping to tackle homelessness, every purchase not only refreshes your style but also supports a crucial cause.
Be enchanted by the boutique atmosphere and the rails upon rails of beautiful fashion pieces, all at amazing prices. This boutique pop up is a guilt-free way to indulge in some serious retail therapy.
Boutique by Shelter, 159 Upper St, London N1 1US
Supporting the Community
Here at the BDC we are a certified B-Corp and are committed to supporting the local community and promoting sustainability whenever we can.
Shopping at second-hand stores and donating your unwanted item is an excellent way of putting these values into practice. By choosing pre-loved items, we reduce waste, extend the life cycle of goods, and contribute to charitable causes that directly benefit those in need. It’s a simple yet impactful way to make a difference.
So, next time you’re in the area, remember to stop by one of these charity shops in Angel. You never know what treasures you may find.
If you would like to find out more about our leading exhibition venue in the heart of Angel and what events we have coming up, then find out more on our Whats On page.
Looking for more tips on what to do in Angel?
Then check out our Angel Islington Summer Series. An expertly curated list of amazing places to visit and things to do, that’s sure to keep you busy all summer long.