The top 10 independent high streets across the UK have been revealed.
Featuring small businesses, independent shops and local restaurants, they are often far better than typical high streets.
From popular shopping streets in Brighton to options in Edinburgh, there are plenty of spots across the country to visit.
New research from the American Express Shop Small campaign has revealed the top 10 independent high streets in the UK.
Dan Edelman, general manager of merchant services at American Express, said: ‘Small businesses play a vital role in shaping vibrant communities, so it’s exciting to see younger shoppers driving this trend with their enthusiasm for distinctive, retro-inspired products and experiences.
‘Through our Shop Small campaign and support of Small Business Saturday we’re proud to champion local high streets, where more small businesses than ever before accept American Express.’
The study, by GlobalData, was based on in-depth research and analysis across a number of factors, including proportion of independent shops and restaurants, vibrancy and asethic appeal.
GlobalData also surveyed 2,300 UK consumers aged over 18.
Here are the streets that made the grade…
Brighton
Brighton’s North Laine stretches along Trafalgar Street, Sydney Street and Kensington Gardens
It’s a vibrant hub that captures the city’s vibe, with independent cafes, restaurants, outdoor stalls and vintage shops
Brighton’s North Laine stretches along Trafalgar Street, Sydney Street and Kensington Gardens, among others.
It’s a vibrant hub that captures the city’s vibe, with independent cafes, restaurants, outdoor stalls and vintage shops.
Known as Brighton’s cultural quarter, it has a bohemian flair and upbeat atmosphere that makes for a great shopping experience and all-round day out.
Sheffield
Division Street and Devonshire Street have been a hub for independent businesses for decades
Located near the city centre of Sheffield, Devonshire Street, Division Street and the top of Cambridge Street are on the list.
Division Street and Devonshire Street have been a hub for independent businesses for decades.
They are in a lively part of the city, and offer excellent dining options, bars and live music venues.
Manchester
Oldham Street in Manchester is the next independent street on the list
Oldham Street in Manchester is the next independent street on the list.
Situated in the city’s Northern Quarter, it has an alternative vibe, a more grunge feel than the rest of Manchester and lots of new businesses.
Perfect for vintage shopping, it also has an array of record shops, charity stores and independent cafes.
London
Coal Drops Yard and Stable Street near London’s Kings Cross station are known for their upmarket independent shops and regular art displays
On the banks of the Regent’s Canal, you can even set up a picnic in the summer months
Coal Drops Yard and Stable Street near London’s King’s Cross station are known for their upmarket independent shops and regular art displays.
On the banks of the Regent’s Canal, you can even set up a picnic in the summer months.
The shopping complex at Coal Drops Yard is particularly noteworthy, with many brands and stores on offer and a selection of food and drinks to choose from.
Birmingham
Running along the outside boundary of the Custard Factory, a creative and digital business hub, is the next top spot
Running along the outside boundary of the Custard Factory, a creative and digital business hub, is the next top spot.
Gibb Street and Floodgate Street in Birmingham’s Digbeth neighbourhood are known for their street art, which is easy to see if you wander around.
Lined with pretty fairy lights, the industrial-style area is a popular place to go for drinks or dinner in the city.
London
Broadway Market in London’s Hackney is home to one of the city’s popular street markets
Broadway Market in London’s Hackney neighbourhood is home to one of the city’s popular street markets.
With shops, market stalls, food and drink, the working Victorian street market is open 365 days a year.
It’s the perfect spot for foodies looking for a trendy spot to explore in the capital.
Edinburgh
Raeburn Place in Edinburgh links to Deanhaugh Street at its eastern end
Raeburn Place in Edinburgh links to Deanhaugh Street at its eastern end.
It’s the main street of the suburb of Stockbridge in the city, and is home to many charming buildings.
Raeburn Place is also the name of nearby sporting fields, and is the location of the first international rugby match between Scotland and England.
Liverpool
Historic Bold Street in Liverpool is known for two things – independent shops and the Church of St Luke
Historic Bold Street in Liverpool is known for two things – independent shops and the Church of St Luke.
More commonly known as the ‘Bombed out Church’, it was badly damaged during the Second World War.
The area nowadays leads into Liverpool’s main retail district, and is a vibrant hub in the city centre.
Bristol
Gloucester Road is the longest road of independent shops in the UK
Gloucester Road is the longest road of independent shops in the UK.
There are interesting options along the street: for example, many students flock to the many charity and vintage clothes shops there.
What’s more, there are many restaurants featuring cuisine from around the world, with many small local businesses operating.
Leeds
Central Road, New Market Street, and part of Call Lane in Leeds are also ranked on the top 10 list
Central Road, New Market Street, and part of Call Lane in Leeds are also ranked on the top 10 list.
Located in the city centre, there is a wealth of independent shops and cafes along these streets.
Nearby is Kirkgate market, one of the largest indoor in Europe.
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