There is a quiet, deliberate joy in the physical format that a Spotify ‘Daily Mix’ can't touch - and for many, there is a change in the air, in how we are starting to consume our music.
Whether it’s the tactile warmth of vinyl, the unexpected return of the cassette tape, or even the humble compact disc - currently being liberated from its life as a coffee coaster or a makeshift shim for a wobbly chair - we’re seeing a real return to ‘intentional’ listening.
It’s the difference between background noise and actually choosing to spend a pretty penny on that one definitive pressing of your favourite album.
To help you find your next piece of intentional listening, we’ve looked at the legends at Record Fairs UK, one of the gold standards for tracking down crates across the country.
So if you’re planning a hunt further afield, be sure to check out their fantastic work - but if you’re on the hunt from across Yorkshire in the lead up to the second bank holiday we have this month, then look no further.
7. Richmond Record Fair (May 23)
A scenic Saturday dig in a welcoming town hall pub that feels more like a social hangout than a trade show. It’s a great spot to find classic pop and rock while enjoying the relaxed pace of North Yorkshire life. ⚫ The Town Hall Pub & Dining, Market Place, Richmond, DL10 4QL | Google Street View/Canva
8. Bawtry Record Fair (May 25)
The perfect Bank Holiday Monday mission for the serious collector who missed out on the weekend rush. This fair regularly rewards those who dig deep, often featuring stock that hasn't been picked over by the city-centre crowds. ⚫ Bawtry Town Hall, Peake's Croft, Bawtry, DN10 6PU | Google Maps/Canva
9. York Record Fair (May 25)
Taking over one of the city's coolest independent music venues, this bank holiday fair leans heavily into punk, alternative, and indie. It’s as much about the community and the soundtrack as it is about the records on the tables. ⚫ The Crescent Community Venue, 8 The Crescent, York, YO24 1AW | Google Street View/Canva
10. Hull Record Fair (May 30)
Browse through thousands of records under the jaw-dropping vaulted ceilings of the historic Hull Minster. It is arguably the most atmospheric venue on the circuit and always draws a massive, dedicated crowd. ⚫ Hull Minster, Trinity Square, Hull, HU1 1RR | Local Library
11. Leeds Corn Exchange Record Fair (May 30 and 31)
A flagship double-header in the most iconic building in Leeds city centre. The dome provides a stunning backdrop for the region’s premier dealers to showcase their high-end rarities and box-fresh arrivals. ⚫ The Corn Exchange, Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BR | James Hardisty
12. Thirsk Record Fair (May 30)
A compact but high-quality pop-up in a classic North Yorkshire pub that is perfect for a Saturday afternoon browse. It’s a great destination for those hunting down clean copies of classic rock and 60s pop essentials. ⚫ The Mowbray Arms, 83 Market Place, Thirsk, YO7 1ET | Google Street View/Canva