Burnley is full of bold and passionate independent businesses, each with a unique story, and during Independent Retailer Month, you’re invited to explore them all. From butchers to cosy cafes and artisan food halls, here’s a quick, helpful guide featuring just a handful of some of our top independents in the town…
Local Legends You’ll Love
Labels for CARES
Located in Charter Walk, Labels (Labels for Cares) offers brand new designer fashion at major discounts, with all profits going to cancer care charities. Visiting here is your chance to shop consciously while making a real impact on the local community.
The Curious Cat (located on Burnley Market)
This eclectic store offers a diverse range of products, including fair trade clothing, bohemian and alternative fashion, crystals, incense, and various mystical items.
Haffner’s Butchers
Burnley’s go-to traditional butchers, Haffner’s on Keirby Walk, provides expertly selected meats, friendly local service and has deep roots in the community – and we must mention their pies, which are iconic in Lancashire!
Moonline Uniforms
Burnley’s go to for school wear and workwear, offering reliable uniforms at accessible prices through a trusted family run business. Their personalised service, community roots, and long-standing presence make them a standout independent retail shop in the town.
Device Care
Located in Charter Walk, Device Care is your go-to independent tech specialist for fast and affordable repairs. Whether you’ve got a cracked screen, faulty battery, or software issue, their experienced team offers same day fixes for phones, tablets, and other devices.
Waterlife & Pets
This long-standing pet shop on Curzon Street has been family-run for generations, stocking everything from small furry friends and aquarium fish to dog food and cat toys. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are happy to help with pet care advice.
Cafes to Bookmark
Burnley’s independent coffee scene is thriving:
Little Barista
A beloved town centre favourite celebrated for ethically sourced coffee beans, vegan and gluten free treats, attentive service and a cosy ambience.
Cosy Coffee
A friendly, family-run café with excellent coffee, milkshakes, smoothies and snacks. Boasting outdoor seating where visitors can sit back and relax whilst watching the world go by.
Real Coffee Bean
Real Coffee Bean is bright and stylish and has launched a brand-new lunch menu. Plus, they are dog friendly – so you can bring along your furry friends too!
The Coffee House
Located on St James’s Street, The Coffee House is a warm and welcoming spot. Expect quality coffee, a great selection of teas, indulgent hot chocolates, and a menu full of freshly made sandwiches, cakes, and pastries.
Savour the difference
Celebrating local independent dining
The Real Food Hall
Offering a diverse range of culinary options, it caters to various tastes and preferences. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to providing quality food experiences.
The Palazzo
Nestled on Grimshaw Street, The Palazzo transformed a Grade II listed former bank into a striking dining space. Their signature dishes include homemade sourdough pizza based in a wood-fired oven.
Ellis’s
What makes Ellis’s stand out is the gourmet burgers and loaded fries. Located on St James’s Row it is trendy yet welcoming with a cool city vibe hangout with darts, beer pong, pool table, and relaxed tables perfect for casual nights out and family meals.
Banny’s Fish and Chips
Banny’s brings bold flavours, generous servings, and that nostalgic seaside vibe while shaking things up with inventive spice seasonings and a true community friendly drive-thru concept. Ideal for those craving both classic and bold new fish and chip experiences.
Aroma Asian Restaurant
This is a standout independent gem in Burnley, offering award-winning Indian and Asian cuisine in a warm, modern setting. It is a family-run business with national recognition and a loyal following. It is a must-visit for anyone craving bold, authentic food and heartfelt hospitality.
Unleash the fun!
Discover the top independent leisure spots
Picture Me Rollin’
Burnley’s premier independent roller-skating rink and party venue offers a vibrant, neon lit atmosphere perfect for all ages. It is located on Hammerton Street and features a smooth skating floor, a tot’s playroom, an adult only area karaoke lounge and arcade games. Whether you are gliding to classic tunes or celebrating a special occasion this venue promises fun filled memories.
The Vault Cinema
Located within the Real Food Hall on Manchester Road, The Vault Cinema offers a luxurious movie watching experience. Housed in a former bank vault, it features private screenings in exclusive auditoriums ranging from two seaters to spacious 16 seaters. Guest can enjoy a selection of premium snacks and beverages served directly to their seats, making for an unforgettable cinema outing.
St Peter’s Leisure Centre
This is the go-to spot for all things active, and wellness focused. With a modern 25 metre pool, a training pool, a fully equipped gym, squash courts, sports halls, and group fitness classes, it offers something for everyone.
Burnley Mechanics Theatre
Step into history and culture hosting everything from comedy nights and theatre performances to live music and family shows, it’s the perfect place to experience vibrant entertainment and in an intimate setting. Burnley Mechanics is also home to the 1855 Bistro & Bar for a delicious pre-show meal.
Burnley’s independent scene is thriving and there really is no better time to discover it. So, get out there, shop local and celebrate the businesses that make Burnley brilliant.
