Triple 3 Clothing's Top 20 Independent UK Skate Shops
At Triple 3 Skate Clothing, we’re all about backing the UK’s skate scene. There are loads of independent skate shops out there, but these are the ones we’re hyped on right now. Whether they’ve been around for years or are making waves as new spots, these shops have earned a place on our list.
From iconic city spots to hidden gems in smaller towns, these shops are the heartbeat of the skating community, hooking up skaters with the gear they need and the vibes and local knowledge they love.
We love nothing more than browsing through endless rails of crisp skate t-shirts or chatting for hours about local spots.
Ready to check out the top independent UK skate shops? Whether you’re after a new deck or just want to hang out with fellow skaters, these are the places to be.
1. Black Sheep, Manchester
Manchester’s Black Sheep has been holding it down for over two decades. What started as a small shop, "Split Skates," has evolved into one of the most iconic skate shops in the UK. Harry, the man behind the scenes, has been part of the skate and BMX scene for years and has kept Black Sheep true to its roots.
Black Sheep is known for supporting the local skate community. They’ve backed local skaters, hosted legendary events, and even ran Central Skatepark, Manchester’s only indoor park, for eight years. The shop’s vibe is always on point, and the staff knows their gear inside and out.
2. Slam City Skates, London
Slam City Skates has been a fixture in London’s skate scene since 1986. Starting out in the basement of Rough Trade on Talbot Road, this shop has moved around London but never lost its connection to the city’s skaters. Now across from Dray Walk, it’s still going strong, offering everything from beginner boards to the latest gear.
Run by skaters who know the scene inside and out, Slam City Skates is a piece of skateboarding history. With unique hardware like Passport boards and the "Yearbook" series, they’ve always got something interesting on the shelves. Plus, their blog keeps you in the loop with interviews and updates on the local skate community.
3. Ideal Skateboard Shop, Birmingham
Ideal Skateboard Shop has been keeping Birmingham’s skate scene alive since 1991. Located in the Custard Factory in Digbeth, this skater-owned and run shop is a real gem. Kris and the crew are always on hand to help you find exactly what you need, whether it’s the latest deck or just some solid advice.
Ideal is all about supporting the local scene. They’ve got a killer selection of boards, clothing, and accessories, and if they don’t have what you’re looking for, they’ll order it in. Trust us, if you’re after gear from one of the UK’s best independent skate shops, Ideal should be on your list!
4. Focus Skateboards, Edinburgh
Since April 2001, Focus Skateboards has been at the heart of Scottish skateboarding. Located at 270 Canongate on The Royal Mile, this shop is all about supporting the local skate scene while offering a great selection of clothes, footwear, and gear that the owners themselves love.
Over the years, Focus has evolved, bringing in exclusive brands, limited edition releases, and all the core favourites that skaters appreciate. The shop has a strong connection to the local community, drawing creative input from friends and featuring some of the best riders in Scotland on their team.
5. Division 24, Wakefield
Division 24 has been keeping Wakefield rolling since 2001. Founded by brothers Wayne and Dave Miller, this skater-owned shop started life in The Old Vicarage under the name 'Boardriders.' When Wayne took the reins full-time in 2005, the shop rebranded as Division 24 and narrowed its focus entirely to skateboarding.
This place has everything you’d expect from a proper skate shop. From classic brands like Anti-Hero and Polar Skate Co to the latest from Vans and Thrasher, the shelves are packed with quality gear. What we love most about Division 24 apart is their dedication to the local skate scene. They’re always supporting local skaters, backing events, and even getting involved in building skateparks.
6. Native Skate Store, Newcastle
Native Skate Store opened its doors in 2003 to serve the thriving skate scene in Newcastle Upon Tyne. As the only skater-owned shop in the area, Native has always been about supporting the local community. The store sponsors local skaters, organises skate jams, and hosts video premieres, keeping the North East skateboarding scene vibrant.
In 2005, Native expanded by launching an online shop, and with hard work, they’ve become one of the UK’s best independent skate stores. The staff, all skateboarders themselves, bring their experience and knowledge to help customers find the right gear. The shop stocks everything from skate decks and hardware to shoes and clothing, featuring brands like Almost, Habitat, Real, Antihero, Nike SB, and more.
7. Welcome Skate Store, Leeds
Welcome Skate Store has been a central part of Leeds’ skate scene since 2010. This skater-owned shop offers everything you need, from boards and shoes to clothing and accessories. The team behind Welcome includes skaters like James Foster, Dale Starkie, and Blinky, who are well-known in the local scene.
What makes Welcome Skate Store special is its genuine connection to the community. The people here care about skateboarding and the local skaters who come through the door. The shop is a gathering place where skaters can find great gear and connect with others who share the same passion.
8. Three Amigos, London
If you’re skating in Camden, Three Amigos Skate Shop is a spot you can’t miss. Since opening in 2010, this skater-owned shop at 118 Camden Road has become a local legend. Richard Weetch, the owner, has made it a second home for skaters. It’s a place where you’re just as likely to run into a pro as you are to grab some fresh gear.
The shop has seen some famous faces, too. Jennifer Saunders has popped in, and the drummer from Sepultura is a regular. But at its core, Three Amigos is all about the local scene and the skaters who keep it alive.
9. Lariatt Skate Store, St Albans
Founded by two lifelong skateboarders in 2016, Lariatt Skate Store is where the St Albans skate scene comes together. The shop offers a solid selection of skateboard decks from brands like Lovenskate, Palace, and Anti Hero, along with skate shoes from Lakai, Vans, and Emerica. Lariatt also has its own line of clothing.
For skaters in St Albans, Lariatt Skate Store is the spot to find great gear and connect with fellow skaters. You can find them at 7 High Street, Village Arcade, St. Albans.
10. Grind Supply Co, Bideford
Skateboards and coffee - Grind Supply Co has nailed it! Since 2018, this Bideford gem has been the spot for locals who love both. Rupert, the man behind the counter, lives and breathes skateboarding and coffee, and it shows in every inch of the shop.
Rupert’s enthusiasm is infectious, and he’s got the knowledge to back it up. Need advice on a new deck or just want to chat about the latest skate news? He’s your guy. The shop is a hub for local skaters, where you can get honest advice without any pushy sales tactics.
And let’s not forget the coffee. Rupert makes a mean cup, and at just £2, it’s the best deal in town. Plus, 10% of all sales go straight into the local skatepark fund, so every purchase helps build up the community. Grind Supply Co is easily one of the coolest skate stores in the UK.
11. Wight Trash World, Ryde
Skateboarding on the Isle of Wight has a home, and it’s called Wight Trash World. Born from a love of skateboarding that started after watching Back to the Future, this shop has become a hub for skaters on the island.
What began with a few logo tees and stickers has grown into a full-blown brand, thanks to the passion of its founder and the support of legends like Don Brider and Nick Zorlac from Death Skateboards.
The shop is all about keeping things fun and authentic. Every piece of gear and clothing is tested by their team, so you know it’s legit. Wight Trash World is a place to hang out, play retro games, chill in the garden, or take on 'THE THING' to earn a spot on the 'Wall of Doom.'
When you pick up something from Wight Trash, you’re helping to keep the island’s skate community rolling. They even run a not-for-profit skate club, teaching kids to skate for fun and stay true to the UK’s independent skate spirit.
12. Fifty Fifty, Bristol
If you know Bristol’s skate scene, you know Fifty Fifty. Established in 1997 by Danny Wainwright and Justin Sydenham, this shop has been a part of the city’s culture for over 20 years. Located at 51 Colston St, it’s the place where skaters and streetwear fans come together.
Fifty Fifty has hosted some pretty legendary visitors, too. Keith Murray, Damon Albarn, and Beth from Portishead have all popped in, and Daddy G from Massive Attack is a regular—always leaving with a shop tee, of course.
Next time you’re in Bristol, don’t miss out on Fifty Fifty. It’s where Bristol’s skate scene thrives, and you’ll feel right at home from the moment you step inside.
13. Brixton's Baddest, London
Brixton's Baddest is a standout in more ways than one. As the only female-run skate shop in the UK, it’s been a key player in the Stockwell skate scene since 2015. Just a minute from Stockwell Skatepark, this shop is all about convenience and community, offering skaters a solid selection of gear right where they need it.
With over 120 decks from top brands like Palace Skateboards, Anti Hero, and Polar Skate Co, Baddest Skateshop has what you need to keep rolling. They’ve been active in efforts to save Stockwell Skatepark and even teamed up with Palace Skateboards on the BAD PAL collection, inspired by the local area.
14. Lost Art, Liverpool
Founded by Dave Mackey in 1999, Lost Art is unquestionably one of the top independent UK skate shops. This Liverpool staple is where local legends like Geoff Rowley and Chima Ferguson got their start, and where the next generation of skaters come to get inspired.
Finding Lost Art is part of the adventure. It’s tucked away above a pizza joint on 15 Brick Street. You’ll need to buzz in, but once you’re inside, it’s like stepping into skateboarding’s past, present, and future. The shelves are lined with everything from the latest gear to old VHS tapes that make you feel like you’re part of something special.
15. Decimal, Cirencester
Since 2005, Decimal has been the beating heart of Cirencester’s skate scene. If you’re a skater in Gloucestershire, you’ve probably been through their doors at least once.
You’ll find gear from brands like Carhartt, Nike SB, and Vans on their shelves, but what really makes Decimal stand out is how much they give back. They’re always involved in local youth projects, putting on events, and collaborating with local artists. Plus, when you pick up a deck, they toss in free Jessups Griptape.
You can find Decimal at 3 Swan Yard, 10-12 West Market Place, Cirencester.
16. Slugger, Sheffield
Slugger Skate Store has been the go-to spot for Sheffield skaters since 2008. Founded by lifelong friends Louis and Martin, this skater-owned shop at 95 Division Street is packed with a killer selection of boards, skate tees and skate hoodies, caps, and trainers.
What we love most about Slugger is its down-to-earth vibe. You’ll find free magazines lying around, and the shop has an atmosphere that feels more like a hangout than a store. It’s the kind of place where you can pop in for gear and end up staying for a chat.
17. Forty Two, Nottingham
Step into Forty Two Skate Shop, and you’re stepping into the heart of Nottingham’s skateboarding culture. Founded by Rob Johnson and Scott Underdown, this shop at 19 Victoria Street is run by skaters who live and breathe the scene. They know the best spots, the right gear, and they’re always ready to share that knowledge with anyone who walks in.
The shop is stocked with everything a skater needs, from brands like DC, Lakai, and Nike SB, to complete setups that are ready to ride. They’re also behind some of the best local events, like the Sunday Circuit jams that bring skaters together all over Nottingham.
18. Illicit, Kettering
Illicit, opened in March 2018, is an independent skate shop in Kettering. Skater-owned and operated, the shop stocks a solid range of European and international skateboard brands.
The team at Illicit knows their stuff and is always ready to help you find the right board or hardware for your needs.
Visit them at 10 Market St, Kettering, for expert advice and top-quality gear.
19. ESP Chichester
ESP Chichester has been a family-owned hub for rolling sports since 1996. Specialising in rollerblading, skateboarding, BMX, and scooters, they’ve been supporting the local community for decades.
Check out their store at Unit 2, Cathedral Courtyard, Southgate, Chichester, for everything you need in the world of skateboarding and rolling sports.
20. Bored of Southsea
Last, but definitely a standout on our list of the UK’s top independent skate stores, is Bored of Southsea. This shop, rooted on Albert Road for over 20 years, has built its reputation by staying true to the local community and stocking solid brands like Nike SB, Adidas, and Carhartt WIP.
The Southsea Bronx Strong Island line, born right in the shop, has become a part of the city’s identity. It’s known and worn far beyond Southsea, representing the local vibe perfectly. Bored of Southsea is all about supporting local skaters and bringing in gear that matters.
There are some amazing skate shops in the UK, too many to mention. They are one of the few surviving bastions of a once eclectic British high street, allowing the culture of skating to thrive and skaters young and old to have a central hub of their community. Please support your local skate shop, you never realise how important they are, until they are gone.
Top 20 Skate Shops according to Triple 3 Skatewear
That's our Top 20 Skate shops for this year, there are so many to choose from in the UK at the moment. We love them all! Some focus more on Skatewear and T-Shirts, others on Skateboards and accessories. They all help to grow their local skateboard community and help keep the scene alive.