Furnishing on a Budget: Bristol’s Best Charity Shops
Furnishing your home doesn’t have to cost the earth – literally or financially. Whether you’ve just moved to Bristol, you’re kitting out your first flat or you’re simply trying to live more sustainably, charity shops are a brilliant place to start. They’re full of pre-loved treasures that are kinder to the planet and your wallet.
Bristol’s second-hand scene is thriving. From large furniture pieces to quirky home accessories, there’s something for every taste and budget. So, let’s take a tour of the city’s best charity shops for homewares and furniture, and share some tips on how to get the most out of the experience.
Why Shop Pre-Loved?
There are lots of good reasons to take the second-hand route:
- Save money – Pre-owned furniture is often a fraction of the price of new.
- Support local causes – Proceeds from charity shops go straight into vital community services.
- Be more sustainable – Buying second-hand reduces demand for new production and cuts down on landfill waste.
- Find something unique – Charity shops are full of one-offs that add real character to your space.
Bristol’s Best Charity Shops for Homewares and Furniture
Emmaus Bristol – Stokes Croft
Emmaus is a top pick for second-hand furniture in Bristol. Their Stokes Croft shop is known for its spacious layout and big-ticket items like sofas, beds, tables and wardrobes. They also stock upcycled pieces, giving older furniture a new lease of life.
Better still, Emmaus is more than just a shop – it supports people who’ve experienced homelessness by providing work and accommodation.
Top tip: They offer affordable delivery if you can’t transport items yourself.
Visit Emmaus Bristol
St Peter’s Hospice Shops – Across Bristol
With branches in Brentry, Horfield, Brislington and more, St Peter’s Hospice shops are well stocked with a good mix of furniture, soft furnishings and decorative pieces. You can expect high turnover, so it’s worth popping in regularly.
Money spent here goes directly towards caring for people with life-limiting illnesses in Bristol.
Top tip: Don’t hesitate – the best bits tend to go fast.
Visit St Peter’s Hospice
British Heart Foundation Home Store – Broadmead
Right in the city centre, this large store offers a wide range of affordable second-hand furniture and electricals. From sofas and dining sets to kettles and washing machines, you’ll find practical essentials as well as the odd gem.
They also offer delivery, which makes buying larger pieces far more manageable.
Top tip: Great if you need to furnish a whole place quickly on a budget.
Visit BHF Bristol
Children’s Hospice South West – Zetland Road
Tucked away in Redland, the Little Steps shop run by Children’s Hospice South West is ideal for finding smaller items to brighten up your home. They stock an attractive mix of homewares and occasional furniture, and the atmosphere is always welcoming.
Sales support local families with seriously ill children.
Top tip: Keep an eye out for high-quality decorative pieces at brilliant prices.
Visit CHSW
The SOFA Project – Old Market & Gloucester Road
The SOFA Project is well known across Bristol for second-hand furniture and appliances. Many items are refurbished, especially electricals and come with a six-month warranty. It’s a great spot for practical purchases as well as eco-friendly DIYers – they also sell paints and upcycling supplies.
Every purchase supports training and employment schemes for disadvantaged people in the city.
Top tip: It’s perfect for second-hand DIY lovers and bargain-hunters.
Visit SOFA Project
Bonus: Best Areas for Charity Shopping
If you fancy making a day of it, head to these neighbourhoods with multiple shops in walking distance:
- Fishponds – Budget-friendly options including Sue Ryder and Barnardo’s. Locals rate the prices and variety.
- Gloucester Road – Packed with independent shops and great charity shops like Marie Curie and Cats Protection.
- Cotham Hill – Oxfam, Mind and Brandon Trust shops here tend to have high-quality pieces, thanks to the area’s affluence.
Tips for a Successful Charity Shop Furnishing Mission
- Measure up – Take a tape measure and the dimensions of your space to avoid disappointment.
- Inspect carefully – Look for damage, check drawers and doors and give it a wobble – you want solid, usable pieces.
- Think about transport – If you don’t have a car, many shops offer delivery or you can book a local removals team.
- Visit often – Stock changes quickly, and the good stuff doesn’t hang around.
- Get creative – With a bit of paint or new handles, older items can become centrepieces.
Furnishing Sustainably? We Can Help with That
At On The Dot Removals, we’re all about Bristol’s green spirit. We reuse packing materials wherever possible, plan low-emission routes across the city and offer cost-effective local removals that don’t compromise the planet. If you’re moving home and value sustainability, we’re the team for you.
Get a quote or speak to us about moving your second-hand finds safely and affordably.