Crate Digging Across Ireland: Best Second-Hand Vinyl Record Stores

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theBeat.ie
theBeat.ie

There’s something about flipping through dusty crates, chasing that one perfect pressing, that just feels right. Ireland’s second-hand vinyl scene is alive and kicking - from basement dens in Dublin to tiny coastal gems in Kerry. Whether you’re hunting rare jazz, battered punk singles, or classic Irish trad, these shops are where the magic happens.

Here’s your laid-back guide to some of the best spots to dig for second-hand vinyl across the country.

Spindizzy Records

32 Market Arcade, South Great George's Street, Dublin 2

Right in George’s Street Arcade, Spindizzy is a cornerstone of Dublin’s vinyl culture. Since the ‘90s, it’s been stacking shelves with everything from pop and jazz to underground gems - including a solid mix of new and second-hand vinyl. It’s the kind of place where you can lose an hour without noticing.

Freebird Records

15A Wicklow Street, Dublin 2

A proper institution, running since 1978. Tucked inside the Secret Book and Record Store, Freebird is packed with character and crates of both new and used vinyl. Expect everything from indie to obscure finds, plus a strong focus on Irish artists.

The R.A.G.E.

8 Crow Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

If you’re hunting second-hand LPs, this is a must. R.A.G.E. is known for its deep selection across genres - soul, punk, reggae, metal - and it’s especially good for those harder-to-find records. Bonus: retro gaming gear adds to the chaos.

Sound Cellar

47 Nassau Street, Dublin 2

A dark, basement-style shop with serious rock and metal energy. A Dublin staple since the 1970s, it’s perfect for digging through heavier genres and uncovering older second-hand vinyl.

Mojo's Records

4 Merchant's Arch, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

A small but mighty Temple Bar spot, Mojo’s specialises in vinyl and collectibles. Expect a mix of second-hand records and music memorabilia - ideal for crate diggers who like a bit of nostalgia with their finds.

All City Records

4 Crow Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2

A hub for DJs and electronic heads, All City has been part of the scene since 2001. While it leans toward new releases, you’ll still find second-hand treasures among its deep hip-hop and electronic selection.

Bunker Vinyl

1 Camden Place, Shandon, Cork

Hidden in a basement, Bunker Vinyl is a proper crate-digger’s paradise. Expect everything from classics to weird, wonderful oddities - the kind of place where you’ll discover something you didn’t even know you wanted.

Plugd Records

3 Cornmarket Street, Cork City

More than just a record shop, Plugd is part café, part venue, part community hub. It’s known for its underground and local selections, with a mix of new and second-hand vinyl and a strong DIY vibe.

Steamboat Music

Steamboat Quay, Limerick

Overlooking the river, this spot blends new and used vinyl with instruments and gear. It’s a great place to browse second-hand records and maybe catch an in-store performance while you’re at it.

Lucky Lane

9 Catherine Street, Limerick

A lesser-known gem, Lucky Lane deals in vintage culture - including second-hand vinyl. Expect eclectic finds and a more offbeat, treasure-hunt experience.

Bell, Book and Candle

Sea Road, Galway City

Part bookshop, part record store, part curiosity cabinet. This long-running shop buys and sells second-hand vinyl alongside books and films, with constantly changing stock that rewards repeat visits.

Rollercoaster Records

St. Kieran's Street, Kilkenny City

A beloved independent shop with deep roots in the Irish music scene. Expect niche releases, indie labels, and a carefully curated mix that includes second-hand vinyl treasures.

Dingle Record Shop

Green Street, Dingle

Tiny, charming, and legendary. Known as one of Ireland’s smallest record shops, it specialises in traditional Irish music and unique vinyl finds — a must-stop if you’re out west.

Final Spin

Ireland’s second-hand vinyl scene isn’t about polished megastores — it’s about personality. Basement shops, cluttered shelves, handwritten price tags, and the thrill of discovery. Whether you’re in Dublin for a day or road-tripping the Wild Atlantic Way, these spots are proof that vinyl culture here is still spinning strong.

Now grab a tote bag...and start digging.

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