19.09°C Colchester’s vinyl scene just got louder. The opening of Stone Rock Records on Head Street has added a fresh note to the city’s growing music culture, joining a mix of shops, market stalls, cafés and fairs that make crate digging here more exciting than ever. Vinyl is thriving in Colchester, and every stop on this trail brings its own character, community and soundtrack.
HMV, Culver Square
Begin in Culver Square, where HMV has long been a staple of Colchester life (7 Culver Square, CO1 1WG). Here, you will find the latest releases, limited-edition vinyl, and box sets with a personal touch from Lesley Watson, whose support of Colchester artists truly sets this store apart. On Saturdays, do not miss Lesley’s HMV Live & Local event at 12.30pm, turning the shop floor into a mini gig with a guest artist each week.
Stone Rock Records, Head Street
From there it is a short walk to Head Street and the city’s newest vinyl shop, Stone Rock Records (43A Head Street, CO1 1NH). With a constantly changing selection and a focus on independent culture, this shop makes it clear that vinyl remains a vibrant part of Colchester’s creative scene.
Best Days Vintage, Eld Lane
Next, head to Eld Lane, where Best Days Vintage (40 Eld Lane, CO1 1LS) offers a unique mix of retro clothing, books, coffee, and a well-curated selection of vinyl. Steve and Jez run this much-loved shop, making it as much about community and conversation as about shopping.
Mark’s Music, Colchester Market
Just around the corner is Mark’s Music, a market stall selling pre-owned, original press vinyl and CDs along with music-themed gifts and memorabilia (Culver Street West, CO1 1LF). You will find him every Friday and Saturday, with stock that changes week to week and bargains waiting to be unearthed.
Roots & Grooves Cafe, St Nicholas Passage
Wander to St Nicholas Square and step into Roots & Grooves Cafe (3 St Nicholas Passage, CO1 1TJ), a café and record shop run by Baz Briggs and team. With the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and vinyl ready to browse, it is another excellent spot that invites you to linger, for music and a decent place for lunch.
Colchester Record Fair at Firstsite
On the last Saturday of the month, Firstsite (Lewis Gardens, High Street, CO1 1JH) transforms into a vinyl lover’s wonderland. The Colchester Record Fair, organised by record-collecting veteran Dave Chalkey, brings together stalls packed with a wide range of items. It is a buzzing social event where DJs dig, collectors compare, and casual browsers unearth bargains.
Red Rocket Music, Wivenhoe
If you want to take the vinyl trail a little further, head over to Wivenhoe and visit Red Rocket Music (3 Jolliffe’s Yard, High Street, CO7 9AZ). Run by musician Fiona Harmon, this perfect shop offers vinyl, CDs, band tees and music gifts.
Colchester on vinyl
Colchester’s vinyl trail is an ongoing story. For residents, it celebrates a music scene that continues to evolve on our doorstep. For visitors, it is a welcoming way to discover the city through music.
