Mrs Canuticacq’s Emporium sits on Stirling Place in Hove, the sort of small side street where independent shops still feel properly neighbourhood-led rather than part of a circuit.
Background / History
The Emporium is run by Josh Dean, a familiar name in the local vinyl world thanks to his involvement with Brighton’s record-fair scene. While the shop has long had a presence for collectors who like to buy and sell beyond the high street, its current set-up is rooted firmly in the day-to-day rhythms of crate-digging: a bricks-and-mortar space where stock turns over quickly and the conversation is often as important as the purchase.
The Stirling Place premises have hosted a few different music-related ventures over the years, adding to the sense that this corner of Hove has quietly become a useful waypoint for collectors. Today, Mrs Canuticacq’s is established as a dedicated record and music shop with enough breadth to reward repeat visits.
What You’ll Find
Expect a wide sweep of genres, with the emphasis on second-hand vinyl and the kind of mixed, real-world selection that comes from buying collections. One minute you’ll be flicking past punk and metal, the next you’re into jazz staples, left-field curios, and well-kept classic rock. Classical is notably well represented too, with space given to proper runs of composers and labels rather than the odd token box set.
A major calling card is the reggae offering: upstairs you’ll find Mick’s Music, known locally for a deep, era-spanning selection that can keep roots and dub fans busy for a long while. Alongside the records, there’s typically a supporting cast of CDs, books and music memorabilia, which adds to the “have a rummage” appeal.
Experience / Atmosphere
Browsing here feels like being let into someone’s serious collection, but without the stiffness. The two-floor layout naturally breaks the shop into mini-worlds, and it’s easy to lose time moving between sections and comparing finds. The tone is friendly and informal; regulars pop in for a chat, and newcomers are generally made to feel at ease, whether they’re hunting a specific pressing or simply learning what they like.
If you enjoy shops where knowledge is shared casually (rather than delivered as a sales pitch), this one suits. And because stock shifts with what comes through the door, each visit tends to throw up something different.
Why Visit
Two floors of browsing with clear genre “zones”
Particularly strong reggae selection via Mick’s Music upstairs
Proper depth in classical alongside jazz, rock, punk and metal
Stock that refreshes regularly thanks to collection buying
A friendly, conversational approach that suits collectors and first-timers alike
Extras beyond vinyl, including books, CDs and memorabilia
Typically open Tuesday–Saturday (often 11am–5pm), making it easy to plan a stop
Summary
Mrs Canuticacq’s Emporium is a characterful Hove record shop built for people who like to dig: broad genres, a standout reggae room, and the sort of ever-changing second-hand selection that rewards patience. Whether you’re filling gaps in a long-running collection or just want a place where browsing still feels like discovery, it’s well worth making space for on your next wander through Hove.
