Set within the creative setting of Tonedale Mill Business Park in Wellington (TA21 0AW), 303 Records is a small but passionate independent record shop that offers both new and second-hand vinyl and CDs – all served with a customer-first attitude. Situated alongside the local craft-coffee roaster Brazier Coffee, the shop makes for a relaxed stop where browsing and music discovery go hand in hand.
A little background
303 Records is run by music-loving local owner Andy (and team), who have built the business around the idea that finding the right record should be as friendly and straightforward as walking into your neighbourhood shop. While the exact founding date isn’t widely publicised, the store has become a trusted fixture for the local vinyl community and collectors across Somerset. The choice of a business-park location rather than a high-street front gives it something of a hidden-gem feel – though visitors insist that once you know where it is, you’ll happily make the journey.
What you’ll find
Stocks span new-release vinyl and CDs alongside used/pre-loved records, making it suitable for both dedicated collectors and casual browsers. According to online listings, you’ll find a broad spectrum of genres: from rock, indie and alternative through to soul, funk, electronic and more eclectic picks. The shop also offers a personalised service when you’re chasing a specific pressing or edition – the owner is happy to negotiate sourcing hard-to-find records for you. Many customers value the shop’s “we’ll find it if we don’t have it” approach.
The experience
What sets 303 Records apart is the staff’s willingness to go the extra mile. One review noted that the owner “opened up and let us have a browse when we turned up just as he was about to head home”. That kind of flexible, friendly service is rare, and it gives the shop a welcoming feel even if you’re new to vinyl collecting. Browsing is relaxed, the atmosphere calm, and the pairing of vinyl-shop and coffee-roaster venue means you can take your time as you sift through the crates.
Why visit
Independent character: This is not a high-volume chain; 303 Records thrives because it serves genuine vinyl fans, collectors and community members.
Well-curated and accessible stock: Both new and second-hand records are available, meaning you might walk away with a current release or a vintage gem.
Helpful service: The owner is happy to help track down a record you’re searching for – just ask.
Location with a twist: Being based at Tonedale Mill Business Park means you’re stepping off the usual high-street path, which adds to the feeling of discovery and gives you a reason to plan a visit.
In summary
If you’re in the Wellington or wider Somerset area and looking for an independent record-shop that genuinely values both music and the customer experience, 303 Records is an excellent choice. Whether you’re a seasoned crate-digger or someone just starting to build your vinyl collection, you’ll find a friendly ear, curated stock and the chance of something special. Pop in for a browse and you may well leave with more than you expected – maybe a hard-to-find pressing, a new favourite record, and a memory of a shop that cares.
