Support Stourbridge
Even though my business is predominantly online, my local area has been really important to me for a number of reasons. I do have a growing local customer base with guitars being dropped off for setup and wiring work for example, but I have had many customers travel to see me too, many stopping by the local town etc to make the journey worth while. So I thought it might be cool to share some of my favourite local Stourbridge businesses and places to visit, shine a light on many of the superb small businesses in the area that I look up to here.
Record Culture -
Record Culture is an independent record shop specialising in new music, but they stock a wicked collection spreading further than that too. Although they have closed the Market Street physical store, they continue to run a fantastic online store and host a great variety of local events, record fairs and more. A true gem of a local business, one I look up to for sure.
Liquid Audio -
Speaking of records, there is also an amazing hi-fi specialist and repairer based locally. Craig has recently opened up a beautiful showroom in central Birmingham (the Jewerley quarter to be precise), but seeing as the business all started in Stourbridge I will be keeping it firmly on this list for sure! I highly recommend the quality of equipment offered if you love to listen to your music with the best systems! Specialist in Linn LP12s!
The Hop Vault -
A Stourbridge town highlight, and real independant success story. A huge selection of unique drinks so if you like to (responsibly!) enjoy a beverage and like to try something different, this place is superb
Secret Love -
Definitely one of the coolest shop fronts in Stourbridge, situated a few doors down from Hop Vault, Secret Love is a very cool vintage/pre-loved clothing store. Great vibe and a lovely independent business.
Pheonix Games -
My eldest son recently got interested in painting miniatures, warhammer etc, and there is a lovely independant shop in Stourbridge specialising in all things of this nature. From first visit we were made to feel welcome, encouraged to get involved, play and paint and I thought this was great. A lovely shop to have in town for those who love painting, gaming and miniatures.
Stourbridge Music Centre -
A family run music shop that has been a staple visit when in the town, located on lower high street, I would frequent here when I was in college in Stourbridge. Great selection of musical instruments, sheet music and pianos too, so if you're visiting me, swinging by another local music shop comes recommended for sure! Matt is a great guy and I highly recommend supporting this great local music shop, celebrating 40 years in business in 2023 too!
Kingsbridge Bar -
A really nice bar, owned by some neighbours of ours! Kingsbridge is based near to the Home of Tone office, here in Wollaston. If you're after some lunch or a drink, then we highly recommend visiting them. Bridgnorth Road, Wollaston
Claptrap -
A great, uniquely designed live music venue right on the high street in Stourbridge. They host some great bands and artists, so worth keeping an eye on their pages!
Nickolls & Perks -
One of, if not the oldest continually run business in Stourbridge, Nickolls & Perks based on Lower High Street in their iconic and beautiful old building and a wine/spirit merchant. So if you're visiting the area and are interested in that, or just to have a look, buy a gift for someone, then it's well worth a visit.
Pluckybird -
Danielle is an incredibly talented local guitarist and tutor who offers professional guitar, banjo and mandolin lessons to students of all ages in the Stourbridge area. Fully qualified to be able to help students progress through grades should they wish too. Highly recommended!
There are more I will add to this over time, help share the great community of small and family run businesses in the area. I look up to them all!
James