Since the influx of artists dominating the scene in the late 70’s, Sheffield has rapidly built up its reputation as one of the UK’s leading music cities, where you can still find paramount record stores tucked away across the city. Opening its doors in 1978, Record Collector, found on Fulwood Road, serves Sheffield’s record enthusiasts rare and hard to find vinyl and CD's and have recently started to stock new releases in light of the vinyl revival. This is Sheffield’s most popular institution for new and old music, and has been described by one punter as ‘the Aladdin’s cave of record shops’ and who would disagree? This store holds enough treasure to treat us all. But if it’s the finest new releases or reissues you are after, look no further than Bear Tree, located in Orchard Square. The new alternative to HMV, dig your way through their carefully selected range of popular and underground artists;  you may even be surprised to find some quality second hand records among the array. Or if you simply just fancy a quick break from studying, located on Arundel Street; you can find LP Record Store. With records flying out of the window – literally; this store offers a mixed bag of new, old and reissued vinyl across all genres of music. Buying and selling vinyl, this store is music heaven; and the perfect justification to spend your student loan.

I understand that there are a lot of newbies to the vinyl scene, and in some instances the 70’s backdrop and jumble style-esque layout can be quite daunting; especially if you are not too sure what you are looking for. But fear not as Sheffield caters for all with exciting new record stores popping up independently around the city. It is obvious that the urban, industrial concept is becoming more and more popular, and this is does not go unmissed at Tonearm Vinyl, located in Walkley. Here, you can really relax as you delve into the music they provide, mainly due to their passion for constructing a unique appearance that generates quality and value for money. And, if you really want to chill out, Spinning Discs is the place for you. Aiming to truly value their customers, Spinning Discs is established as a meeting place where you can spend time with friends, drink coffee and browse a variety of new, reissued and second hand vinyl all in a friendly community environment; so if you’re a music and coffee lover what more could you want?