This article was written by Alberta Hargreaves from Manchester Metropolitan University

Second hand shopping is perfect for any student who doesn’t want to break the bank. It’s a great way to refresh your wardrobe on a budget, while helping out a good cause. But where do you go thrift shopping and find the best second hand bargains? Here are the best charity shops in Manchester with low prices and the great finds.

Bare Necessities Thrift

charity shops in Manchester
Source: Bare Necessities Thrift
Bare Necessities Thrift has everything you could ever want. With thousands of cleaned and maintained pieces, you can find a perfect piece for a price that will make you smile. It’s only a 5-minute walk from the universities so it’s definitely one of the best charity shops in Manchester. Address: First Floor, 149-153 Oxford Rd, Manchester, M1 7EE

British Heart Foundation, Piccadilly Gardens

British Heart Foundation,
Source: British Heart Foundation
British Heart Foundation is one the staple charity shops in the UK and BHF Piccadilly Gardens is no different. Some customers reported getting Vintage Levi jeans for £40! With an ever-changing collection of vintage clothes, this is the perfect stop for any vintage collector. Address: 51 Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 2AP

Barnado’s, Fallowfield

Barnado's, Fallowfield Manchester charity shops
Source: Barnado’s
Barnados is a must-go shop for anyone looking to find the best items for a perfect price! Barnado’s Fallowfield is in the heart of the student area, but it’s not the only one. With locations in Stockport, Piccadilly and Swinton, there is plenty of places to go and find your new wardrobe staple. Address: Unit G, Fallowfield Retail Park, Fallowfield, Manchester, M14 6FS

Oxfam Emporium

This list would be lacking without an Oxfam mention, so here it is! The Oxfam Emporium has everything you could want. There’s an extensive range of books, with both notable non-fiction and fiction titles. Shelves and shelves of homeware, so whether you need a new tea set or some wall decor, they’ll have what you want. They have a huge range of clothes from cheap essentials to designer brands.
Address: 8-10 Oldham St, Manchester, M1 1JQ

Sue Ryder, Chorlton

Sue Ryder Chorlton
Source: Sue Ryder Facebook
This is a monster charity shop! It’s huge and has everything you could want. From homeware to rare vintage pieces, there are lots of options for everyone! Just across the road from the tram stop, it’s easy to go to! Address:  553 Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester, M21 0AE

Hope Direct Local

Hope Direct Local manchester
Source: Hope Direct Local Facebook
Hope Direct Local is the perfect place to find the best bargains in the city! The shop is so big sometimes it can be hard to find the piece you want, but with such a volume of stock, you’ll find something you want every time. They sell furniture as well as collectables, home decor and clothing, so you can find a new outfit and a little something for your dorm room. Address: 100 Chorlton Rd, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester, M15 4AL

Piccadilly Thrift Store

If you want a bargain, then this is the perfect thrift store for you! With some clothing on a 3 for £10 deal, this is easily the cheapest thrift store! There’s a great range of jackets, t-shirts, jeans and accessories, which are all nicely organised, so you won’t spend 3 hours trying to find what you’re looking for. Address:  39 Parker St, Manchester, M1 4AJ Now, that you know all the best Charity shops in Manchester, you’re one step further to helping create a sustainable fashion industry.  

Last Updated on June 13, 2025

Published on March 8, 2023

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  • Connor is a seasoned content expert at Unifresher, specialising in publishing engaging and insightful student-focused content. With over four years of experience in data analysis and content strategy, Connor has a proven track record of supporting publishing teams with high-quality resources. A graduate of the University of Sussex with a BSc in Accounting and Finance, he combines his academic background with his passion for creating content that resonates with students across the UK. Outside of work, Connor enjoys staying active at his local gym and walking his miniature dachshunds.

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