The UK's shopping hotspot has been revealed, and it's not the country's capital. Data examined by experts revealed which cities in the UK are attracting Brits for shopping. The results are based on a number of factors, including footfall, Google searches, and ONS business figures. The study was conducted by MRI Software, which tracks and forecasts footfall in retail hotspots across the UK. The research revealed that one city stood out as the go-to shopping destination in the UK.

Nottingham is the UK's shopping capital in 2025, according to the research. This is thanks to the city's "strong mix of choice, convenience, and vibrancy". The data reveals that Nottingham is home to 9,690 active businesses and a retail density of 131 businesses per square kilometre. Meanwhile, there are 126,700 searches across the UK for "shopping in Nottingham", which is a significant number of searches compared to other UK cities. Between 2023 and 2024, footfall rose by 2.1%.

Authors of the study said: "Nottingham's success can be credited to a combination of its bustling shopping streets like Bridlesmith Gate, stylish destinations in the Lace Market, and thriving independent boutiques, making it a place where shopping feels like an experience rather than just a transaction."

In terms of independent businesses, there are a lot to choose from in Nottingham. In the city centre alone, you have Handmade Nottingham, The Tokenhouse, Ice Nine, and Stick and Ribbon.

Meanwhile, there are also suburbs like Sherwood, which was formerly home to the "Golden Mile" and is still filled with independent businesses.

Jenni Matthews at MRI Software said: "This research highlights how shoppers are motivated by experience rather than convenience. Cities like Nottingham, Reading, and Bristol are thriving because they offer more than just shops; they create a reason to visit, whether that's through vibrant food scenes, cultural landmarks, or well-curated shopping districts."

In the list of shopping capitals across the UK, Nottingham was followed by Reading in second place and Bristol in third place. The rest of the top five was made up of Leicester and Leeds.

The full top 15 best places for shopping in the UK, according to this study, are: