With Christmas fast approaching, Brits will be making their last-minute additions to the festive shopping. And as many of the UK high streets struggle, with big names constantly shutting up shop, many shoppers now value the vibrancy of independent stores.

Thankfully, in Britain, there are many high streets where you can make a day of the indie-store experience by dining at a neighbouring restaurant for authentic and locally produced food. According to American Express’ recent Shop Small campaign, these 10 independent high streets within Britain that offer the best and most unique shopping experiences.

The company’s general manager of merchant services, Dan Edelman, commented on the GlobalData research.

He 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”.

He added: “We’re proud to champion local high streets, where more small businesses than ever before accept American Express.”

GlobalData surveyed 2,300 UK shoppers to find the top ten.

North Laine and Trafalgar Street, Brighton

The North Laine area includes Kensington Gardens, Trafalgar Street, and Sydney Street and make up a busy and welcoming hub, representing Brighton’s notorious LGBTQ+ friendly and indie atmosphere with its outdoor market stalls, vintage boutiques and locally run restaurants and cafes.

Devonshire Street and Division Street, Sheffield

Branching from the city centre, the Northern city has been highlighted three times on the list for its streets: Dision Street, Cambridge Street and Devonshire Street. Boasting a long history of independent stores, these streets all have one thing in common — they are full of life, great food, fun bars and even live music.

Oldham Street, Manchester

Found in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, the more cultural student area is known for its musical embrace, celebrating with its array of record stores and vintage collections. Oldham Street sets itself apart from the city’s new business infrastructure by holding on to its local cafes, independent shops and charity shops full of hidden gems.

Coal Drops Yard and Stable Stree, London

Situated near King’s Cross Station, these streets are infamous for their art collectives and high-end independent stores. Within the shopping complex, customers can discover a diverse range of high-quality brands and a variety of options for food and drinks.

Gibb Street and Floodgate Street, Birmingham

Bordering Birmingham’s Custard Factory, lies Gibb Street and Floodgate Street, within Digbeth, the town has made a name for itself with its bold street art, a popular attraction for visitors wishing to explore its streets.

Broadway Market, London

Following Birmingham is Broadway Market, located in East London’s star borough Hackney. Offering a popular stalls full of food and drink, the Victorian street market claims to be open every single day, year-round.

Raeburn Place, Edinburgh

Deanhaugh Street can be easily accessed via the eastern end of Raeburn Place, a place now featuring on the list for its architectural charm. Its independent stores include gift shop An Independent Zebra, Henderson Art Shop and Bert’s Bar, described as a lively place and great for social calls. 

Bold Street, Liverpool

Full of history, Liverpool’s Bold Street can be identified by its landmark Church of St Luke, infamous for being targeted by WWII bombers…and its independent stores. Since then, its lively centre is strewn with independent stores.

Gloucester Road, Bristol

Known by students in Bristol for its many pubs and cafes, Gloucester Road is one of the UK’s longest roads, littered with local businesses. A long list of charity and vintage clothes shops have found their home, accompanied by international cuisines just steps away, reports Mail Online.

Central Road and New Market Street, Leeds

Along with Call Lane, Leeds comes in tenth for its three streets, which are awarded some of the best in Britain for independent and sustainable shopping.