Over my many years of visiting Suffolk—before eventually moving here—my absolute favourite thing to do was hunt out the vintage shops along the Suffolk Coast. And now that I live here? Well, apart from wiling away hours on my allotment, I’d say it’s still one of my absolute favourite ways to spend a Suffolk weekend.

You will frequently find me scouring vintage shops, (in Suffolk and beyond) for both work and pleasure. Because there’s nothing quite like stumbling across a hidden treasure—finding beauty in something someone else no longer wants, or discovering the perfect finishing touch for your home or outfit. There’s a little serendipity in it, a sense of fate at play.

I always encourage incorporating vintage pieces into interiors—they add so much more depth and character to a space. Who wants their home to look like it’s straight out of a catalogue? Eekk definitely not me! 

If you need a little help curating that perfect balance of a contemporary home with vintage pieces, you can find out more about my interior design services here.

Whilst most vintage shops focus on homeware, the beauty of them is that you never quite know what you might find. I once discovered the most incredible Malaysian men’s celebratory outfit in a junk shop in Singapore—the only piece like it in a vast warehouse packed with furniture. Did I buy it? Of course I did. But if you’re particularly on the hunt for vintage fashion, scroll to the bottom for a brilliant Suffolk vintage gem.

So here, in no particular order, is my guide to vintage shops on the Suffolk Coast that are absolutely worth a visit. I don’t believe there’s a single one I haven’t made a purchase in!

Thorpeness  Emporium

This place feels like a hidden treasure. I mean, it’s a trip to the always lovely Thorpeness for starters, but the shop itself is always worth a look. It has a good selection—great for kitchenalia, china, and garden bits. There’s usually a small fashion section here too. There is also a cafe there, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely browse.

I bought my full-length Barbour here years ago, back when I was visiting from far sunnier climes and had absolutely no need for a full-length wax jacket. But I knew it would come in handy eventually—and sure enough, it’s now one of my most-worn pieces.

The Barn – Friday Street

This has always been a regular stop, conveniently located next to the brilliant Friday Street farm shop, packed full of delicious local vegetables, produces and a very good cheese room. The Barn is packed with treasures from different sellers, ranging from reclamation pieces to kitchenalia and more.

If you visit on a Sunday between April and October, it’s worth popping across the road to the Friday Street Car Boot. I’ve found some brilliant pieces there over the years. I know car boot sales can be hit and miss these days, but I think this one is still worth a look.

Vintage Mischief – Beccles

When I first moved to Suffolk, everyone kept telling me about Vintage Mischief. Before I lived here, Beccles was a little further afield than I’d usually travel, but once I made the journey… WOW. This place is a marvel.

There’s so much to explore—separate rooms dedicated to ceramics and glass, plus more higgledy-piggledy areas full of surprises. This is what vintage shopping is all about.

Vintage Forty Nine – Woodbridge

This might be the smallest shop on the list, but it’s a real gem. Nestled on Woodbridge High Street, it always has beautiful window displays and manages to pack a lot into a small space. Particularly good for vintage jewellery—ideal if you fancy treating yourself.

While in Woodbridge, I also recommend a visit to Fiona’s Fabrics, just a short walk up the road in Gobbit’s Yard. While primarily a haberdashery and sewing school they also sell second-hand fabric at excellent prices—well worth a look if, like me, you have an ever-growing fabric stash.

Yoxford Antiques

A recently taken-over treasure trove that you’ll want to set aside plenty of time for. They have a vast selection—whether you’re after furniture, art, or curiosities, I’d bet you’ll find something that takes your fancy. They also have a lovely café so you can refuel halfway through your treasure hunt. My much-loved tiger sculpture came from here!

Marlesford Mill

It would be easy to miss this one as you hurtle down the A12, but it’s well worth a detour. A beautifully curated space, full of interesting and unique finds.

Campsea Ashe Auction

Okay, so this isn’t a shop. But if you love vintage, I can’t leave it off the list. The Monday auction is a treasure trove of randomness—you truly never know what will turn up. The listings go live on The Saleroom around 5pm on a Friday, and my wild Suffolk life often consists of a Friday night by the fire, glass of red in hand, scrolling through the catalogue. But the real magic is going in person—viewings are on Saturday mornings, and you’ll want to bring your elbows!

Special mention goes to their bygones auction—worth a visit for sheer curiosity alone.

Vintage Angels – Aldeburgh

Most of these shops focus more on interiors, but no list of Suffolk vintage shops is complete without a mention of Vintage Angels. A tucked-away treasure trove of truly fabulous finds. A great selection—wedding dresses, ballgowns, accessories galore. Visit, then head down to the beach for an ice cream. Perfect.

I once got locked in here when the shop assistant popped out, not realising I was in the changing room! After a brief moment of alarm, I had a very enjoyable time trying on and photographing myself in a selection of men’s jackets. Honestly, could you ask for a better place to get stranded? I think not.

My only request? Please don’t buy the lovely sheepskin jacket I’ve got my eye on. It’s giving strong Del Boy vibes and I like it!

Markets

Special mention must go to the many vintage markets that pop up across Suffolk in spring and summer. Some of my favourites include the brilliant Deben Vintage Markets run by Lady Norfolk and Lord Rust and Blackdog Events – follow them on instagram for dates across the year.

Many of these market holders also happen to be incredible stylists, I love seeing how they display their many beautiful wares.

So, there’s my handy guide to my favourite Suffolk vintage shops. If you think I’ve missed any, let me know immediately! I’ll be on my way to check them out, see what treasures I can lay my hands on, and add them to the list.

If you love the look but need a little help pulling it all together, drop me a message to see how I can help you.

Chloé X