Discover the Best Charity Shops in Central London (2026) — from a Londoner
Looking for the best charity shops in Central London? Here’s where to find the best secondhand shops in the area — from a charity shopping obsessed Londoner.
This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.
Ah, the magical world of charity shopping in Central London.
Where vintage treasures and contemporary style mingle amidst a hodgepodge of bric-a-brac, all with an undercurrent of generosity and at the end of the day, giving back.
I absolutely love charity shopping in Central and so if you’ve got an eye for a bargain too, here’s the best spots to go — from a Londoner!
The Best Charity Shops in Central London: Your Central London Thrift Shop Guide
Oxfam Bookshop, Bloomsbury
Bloomsbury Plaza, 12 Bloomsbury St, London WC1B 3QA
Our journey begins at the Oxfam Bookshop in Bloomsbury.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill Oxfam shop; it’s an emporium of carefully curated books, practically spilling out the store.
Plus, getting a read here is supporting the noble cause of fighting global poverty.
FARA, Angel
Angel House, 28 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9HJ
Photo: FARA in Angel
Next stop: FARA in Angel.
This brightly-lit shop is a haven for fashionistas seeking a greener approach to their wardrobe.
Offering everything from high street to high end, it’s no wonder this place is considered a mecca for sustainable style.
What’s more? FARA’s work supports vulnerable children and families in Romania.
Royal Trinity Hospice, Kensington
27 Kensington Church St, London W8 4LL
Photo: Royal Trinity Hospice shop Kensington
A jewel in Kensington’s crown, the Royal Trinity Hospice shop is a treasure trove of antiques, homewares, and luxury fashion finds.
Shopping here is all the more rewarding knowing you’re supporting the UK’s oldest hospice.
Mary’s Living and Giving, Primrose Hill
109 Regent’s Park Rd, London NW1 8UR
Photo: Mary’s Living and Giving
Mary’s Living and Giving in Primrose Hill, created by the fashion guru Mary Portas, is like stepping into a fashion fairy tale.
High-end fashion brands at thrifty prices, all carefully curated in a boutique style setting, make this shop a must-visit.
Don’t forget, each purchase helps Save The Children.
Cancer Research UK, Marylebone
24 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4PQ
Photo: Marylebone, Cancer Research UK
Situated in the heart of Central Marylebone, Cancer Research UK offers a wide selection of quality pre-loved clothing and unique vintage finds.
The shop has a purpose beyond retail: funding life-saving research to beat cancer.
The British Red Cross Shop, Chelsea
69-71 Old Church St, London SW3 5DB
From stylish clothing to beautiful homeware, The British Red Cross Shop in Chelsea provides a well-rounded charity shopping experience.
It’s all about finding unique treasures while supporting the global work of the British Red Cross.
Octavia Foundation, Brompton Road
211 Brompton Rd, London SW3 2EJ
Photo: Octavia Foundation
Make your next stop at Octavia Foundation on Brompton Road.
This shop has a reputation for stocking high-quality clothing, including some designer surprises.
Shopping at Octavia helps support local people in need and contributes to a stronger community in London.
Shelter Boutique, Coal Drops Yard
West Coal Drops, London N1C 4DQ
Shelter Boutique in Coal Drops Yard offers a stylish blend of contemporary and vintage fashion finds, alongside designer wear — at prices that won’t break the bank.
By shopping here, you’re helping to fight homelessness and bad housing for the local community.
The Salvation Army, Princes Street
9 Princes Street, Mayfair, London, W1B 2LQ
With a range of pre-loved items, The Salvation Army shop on Princes Street is a treasure trove for bargain hunters and bric-a-brac-enthusiasts.
Shopping here means supporting programs that help people experiencing homelessness, addiction, and poverty.
Map of the Best Charity Shops in Central London
Final Tips for Charity Shopping in Central London
🛍️ Reusable Bags: When you’re charity shopping in Central London, don’t forget to pack reusable shopping bags.
🛍️ Snag an extra discount: Some charity shops offer extra discounts to students or seniors. Be sure to ask about any special offers that may be available, and have your ID on you!
🛍️ Volunteering Opportunities: In addition to being great places to find affordable second-hand items, many charity shops in Central London also offer volunteering opportunities. This could be a great way to give back to the community while also learning about retail, customer service, and more.
🛍️ Donating Clothes to Charity Shops in Central London: If you’re looking to donate clothes to your local Central London charity shop make sure you read the donation guidelines for each shop, they vary greatly and some charity shops only accept donations on certain days or times in the week.
🛍️ Community Impact: Remember that skipping fast fashion and shopping at or donating to these charity shops in Central London has a direct and positive impact on our local and global communities.
Thanks for reading my Central London Charity Shop Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- 13 Best Charity Shops in London (from a Londoner)
- The Best Charity Shops in North London (from a local)
- Discover the Best Charity Shops in East London
- Discover the Best Charity Shops in South London
- Discover the Best Charity Shops in West London
- The Best Antique Markets in London: An Insider’s Guide
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
