As the summer holidays wind down, parents are starting to think about crisp shirts, shiny shoes and freshly sharpened pencils! Back to School shopping can often feel like a never-ending list, so we’ve pulled together a handy guide of where you can find everything your child needs ahead of the new school year, right here in the heart of Burnley…
One of the best places to begin is Down Town (above New Look at Charter Walk). This isn’t any ordinary shop, but a community hub where families can pick up school uniforms and PE kits for a small donation (if parents and carers can provide one). This shop also provides the perfect opportunity for those who are interested in donating! If you have uniforms at home that no longer fit but have plenty of life left in them, you can drop them off at Down Town ready to be used by another family.
There are plenty of other options in Burnley for kitting the kids out too. Family-run Moonline Uniforms on Standish Street has built a strong reputation for providing affordable schoolwear that doesn’t compromise on quality and stocks uniform for over 50 local schools, while Primark, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Next offer the everyday essentials at prices that make it easy to stock up. For parents who want clothes that will last the whole year, Marks & Spencer is always a dependable choice, while TK Maxx, River Island and New Look provide fantastic school bag ranges, whatever their style. And when it comes to PE kits, JD Sports and Sports Direct are favourites for comfortable pieces that kids actually enjoy wearing.
Few things get as much daily wear as a pair of school shoes, so comfort and durability are key. At Clarks, expert fitting makes all the difference, ensuring children head into the new term with footwear that will keep up with their busy days, while Shoezone offer on-trend and affordable options.
No Back to School shop would be complete without the excitement of new stationery! There’s something magical about starting the year with brand new pens, notebooks and folders. In Burnley, find everything you need at The Works, One Beyond, Burnley Market, The Range and TGJones (formerly) WH Smith – whether that’s bargain bundles, art supplies or revision guides.
And after all that shopping why not take a well-deserved break in one of Burnley’s cafes and eateries? Real Food Hall and Real Coffee Bean offer lots of choice ensuring all members of the family are happy, while Cosy Coffee and Brambles offer warm, welcoming spaces to relax. If you’re after a quality brew, Little Barista, The Coffee House and Rhode Island Coffee are all great go-to spots, while Winter Lotus Brewhouse and Central Kitchen provide hearty options to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
Back to School shopping in Burnley isn’t just about ticking items off a list, it’s about being part of a community that looks out for one another, from donating spare uniforms to Down Town to supporting local businesses that give our town centre character. With plenty of trusted shops, you’ll find everything your children need to start the term feeling ready and confident.
