When you think of Norwich, may not immediately come to mind. Known for its history, beautiful architecture, cathedral, and vibrant cultural scene, the city is now also gaining recognition as the thriftiest in the UK.
With four charity shops per square mile, and 60 charity in total, 16 car boot sales, and 973 Gumtree listings per 10,000 people, Norwich has been crowned the thriftiest city in the UK by the . The Co-operative Bank conducted research to determine the UK's most thrifty city by analysing the number of charity shops, antique fairs, car boot sales, and Gumtree listings across 30 UK cities. For those seeking even more budget-friendly finds, the Arminghall car boot sale is a must-visit.
This popular event has been a staple of the region since 1987, attracting up to 600 stalls where you can unearth your next hidden treasure.
Norwich is home to 15 other car boot sales, each with a wealth of pre-loved items that can be bought.
According to recent research, nearly half of people in England and Wales are now turning to charity shops or considering doing so, driven in part by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
With over 11,200 charity shops scattered across the country, a growing number of people-one in ten, say they plan to buy the majority of their clothing second-hand in the coming year.
With 127 charity shops, 12 antique fairs, 43 car boot sales, and 269 Gumtree listings per 10,000, Nottingham holds second place in the ranking as another prime destination for thrifting enthusiasts.
Manchester comes in third place, with 102 charity shops, 18 antique fairs, and 45 car boot sales.
Whether you're a seasoned second-hand shopper or new to the world of thrifting, Norwich proves that it's not just a city of culture and history-it's also a haven for budget-conscious shoppers.