Music has been part of the fabric of Off The Beaten Tracks for more than two decades, with the shop becoming one of Lincolnshire’s most respected independent record retailers since opening in 2004. Based on Aswell Street in the market town of Louth, the business was founded by Mark Merrifield and Lee Conybeare after they spotted a gap in the town for a dedicated record shop. What began as a market stall in 2003 soon developed into a permanent shop, gradually growing alongside a loyal customer base that continues to support it today.
Over the years the shop has moved between different premises on the same street, expanding its space and broadening its stock while maintaining the independent spirit that first attracted local collectors. Its long-standing involvement with Record Store Day has helped establish it as a destination for vinyl enthusiasts across the county, with customers travelling from throughout Lincolnshire and beyond to browse its shelves.
What You’ll Find
Off The Beaten Tracks carries an impressively wide selection of music across multiple formats. New vinyl sits alongside carefully chosen second-hand records, while CDs, cassettes and DVDs remain an important part of the shop’s offering. Collectors can spend hours working through crates of pre-owned LPs and 7-inch singles, while those seeking current releases will find a steady flow of new arrivals, pre-orders and limited editions.
The shop’s taste is notably broad. Indie, alternative rock, folk, electronic music, jazz, classic rock, soul and contemporary releases all have a presence, reflecting the owners’ enthusiasm for discovering new music rather than focusing on a single niche. Alongside records, visitors will also find music books, badges, prints, tote bags and other music-related items that add to the browsing experience. The shop is also known for sourcing hard-to-find releases and purchasing quality collections from private sellers.
Experience / Atmosphere
Stepping inside Off The Beaten Tracks feels like entering a genuine community hub for music lovers. The atmosphere is friendly and unhurried, encouraging customers to spend time digging through stock, discussing new releases and sharing recommendations. The shop combines the excitement of discovering unexpected second-hand gems with the anticipation of fresh releases arriving every week.
Its family-run nature is evident throughout. Regulars are greeted warmly, newcomers are made to feel welcome, and conversations about music flow naturally across the counter. The move to a larger premises has also allowed space for live performances and in-store events, strengthening its role within the local music scene. Whether you are a serious collector searching for rarities or simply looking to pick up a favourite album, the shop strikes a balance between expertise and accessibility.
Why Visit
- Established independent record shop with more than 20 years of trading history.
- Strong mix of new releases and quality second-hand stock.
- Wide genre coverage across vinyl, CDs, cassettes and DVDs.
- Active participant in Record Store Day.
- Friendly, knowledgeable owners with a reputation for sourcing sought-after titles.
- Regular stock changes that reward repeat visits.
- Important part of Louth’s independent retail and music community.
Summary
Off The Beaten Tracks has earned its place as one of Lincolnshire’s essential record-shopping destinations. Combining the character of a long-established independent business with an ever-changing selection of records and music memorabilia, it offers the sort of browsing experience that keeps collectors returning year after year. Whether you are hunting for a rare second-hand find, picking up the latest release or simply enjoying an afternoon immersed in music, this Louth institution remains a rewarding place to spend time.
