On Burnley Road, The Exchange brings together two of the best sorts of browsing in one place: the slow, satisfying hunt through second-hand books, and the equally absorbing dig through records. It’s a proper “have a look, see what turns up” kind of shop — the sort that suits Todmorden’s independent streak and rewards anyone willing to give the shelves a little time.
Background / History
The Exchange was started by Nick Williamson, who has spent decades buying and selling second-hand stock, learning his trade in North West market towns and cities before bringing that experience to Todmorden. He’s not only steeped in books, either: Nick’s background also runs through music, DJ-ing and performance, which helps explain why the record side of the shop feels purposeful rather than bolted on. The result is a shop shaped by long practice — knowing what people actually pick up, what they ask for, and what tends to slip under the radar until the right person finds it.
What You’ll Find
Records sit happily alongside books, with the emphasis firmly on pre-owned, ever-changing stock. Expect sections that lean into broad, diggable tastes — rock and pop staples, deeper prog corners, jazz, soul and funk, plus a bit of world music and library/left-field curiosities for anyone who likes their sleeves with a story. The Exchange also deals beyond the usual record-shop lanes, taking in jigsaws, art and collectables, and the “exchange” idea is part of the appeal: this is a place where stock moves, rotates and reappears in new forms rather than staying static for months.
Experience / Atmosphere
Browsing here feels informal and human. You’re not being hurried through neatly curated displays; you’re being invited to look properly. The mixed stock means you can come in for a record and leave with a book you didn’t know you needed, or spot a sleeve that nudges you towards a genre you’ve never quite tried. Conversation is part of the rhythm — more like chatting with someone who’s been around the trade for years than being “sold to” — and that’s what gives the shop its local role: a small meeting point between Todmorden’s readers, listeners and collectors.
Why Visit
A fast-turnover second-hand selection that changes regularly
Wide-angled genres, from familiar favourites to more left-field finds
A knowledgeable owner with deep roots in both books and music
More than records: books, jigsaws, art and collectables in the mix
A relaxed shop where browsing and conversation are genuinely part of the experience
Summary
The Exchange is a bright spot for anyone who enjoys the serendipity of second-hand culture — a place to dig, discover and chat, with records and books treated as equally worthy of attention. If you like shops where the next good find is never quite where you expect it, it’s well worth a wander.
