Whether you are in the bustling streets of Soho, the leafy suburbs of East Dulwich or the hip neighbourhoods of Peckham or Stoke Newington, London will always be able to offer you an independent shop to step inside. One of the positives to come out of the pandemic is the outpouring of support for independent business – a sense of community and need for human connection driving a desire to keep those small stores afloat. Even in a sprawling city like London, we mustn’t overlook that those little stores have a person behind them – a person with a passion, and a shop that is their livelihood. Next time you visit the city, take the time to pop your head in a few of the capital’s loveliest indie stores; this little book will be the perfect guide for leading you to their doors…
An opinionated guide to Independent London is written by Imogen Lepere and published by Hoxton Mini Press – an independent publisher, whose books have a focus on London, great photography and inspiring stories. Their ethos is similar to our own – books (and magazines!) are objects in their own right – not just for information but carefully curated, beautifully produced items to collect and inspire.
In this small format book, Imogen highlights 54 owner-run stores. Ones were you are highly likely to be served by the founder themselves and perhaps engage in conversation about the story behind a product or the best way to care for that succulent you are about to buy.
Many 91 faves feature – Botanique Workshop, A New Tribe, Choosing Keeping amongst many others, but we also discovered some ‘new to us’ stores, which we’re adding to our ‘must visit’ list.
The book shares tidbits of each shopkeeper’s story and beautiful images shot by Lesley Lau – just enough of a taster to leave you wanting to explore more. Plus, there is something for everyone – plant lovers, fashionistas, foodies, design lovers and book worms. It’s certainly one I will keep to hand and refer to before I embark on future London jaunts.
Support an independent publisher and purchase your copy direct from Hoxton Mini Press for £9.95.
