The annual celebration of independent record shops is set for April 18, 2026, and residents of Newport and surrounding communities have access to an impressive selection of vinyl retailers to explore this weekend.
Where will you be heading?
Diverse Vinyl, Newport
Matt Jarrett of Diverse Vinyl records shop in the shop (Image: NQ)
Operating from Charles Street since 1999, Diverse Vinyl holds the distinction of being the largest new vinyl retailer in the United Kingdom.
The shop maintains an inclusive philosophy, serving both newcomers to vinyl collecting and experienced audiophiles.
The business is co-managed by Matt Jarrett and Paul Hawkins, who oversee an extensive inventory featuring rare finds and premium audio formats.
Their widespread popularity has established them as a flagship destination in South Wales for Record Store Day festivities.
Kriminal Records, Newport
Dean Beddis of Kriminal Records. (Image: NQ)
Established as Newport’s premier independent record shop by Dean Beddis in 2007, Kriminal Records now operates from within Newport Arcade.
The shop has earned deep affection from local residents for its carefully curated vinyl selection and stands as a pillar of the regional music community.
Mint and Sealed, Newport
Interior of Mint and Sealed Record Shop Newport (Image: NQ)
Mint and Sealed represents the most recent addition to Newport’s music retail landscape, founded in 2025 by DJ and music journalist Chris Seal.
The boutique-style shop offers an eclectic range of vinyl selections from its location in Newport Market.
As an officially recognized Record Store Day participant, this shop certainly deserves a spot on your itinerary.
The Vault Collective, Ebbw Vale
The Vault Collective in Ebbw Vale (Image: Google Street View)
Blending a record store with a tattoo parlor, The Vault Collective in Ebbw Vale provides a relaxed and diverse shopping environment.
The daily musical selections remain unpredictable, and the shop actively participates in Record Store Day with energy, having hosted local bands performing outdoors in previous years.
The store will welcome customers from 9am on Saturday.
Fields of Magnetic Horizon, Ystrad Mynach
Fields of Magnetic Horizon is a popular record shop in Ystrad Mynach (Image: Photo by Eric Krull on Unsplash)
Fields of Magnetic Horizon in Ystrad Mynach features a thoughtfully assembled assortment of new and pre-owned music formats, personally selected by Jonathan Richards, a veteran figure in the music business.
The inventory includes new and used vinyl, compact discs, digital video discs, box sets, t-shirts, and posters.
Grinning Soul Records, Monmouth
Grinning Soul Records is the only vinyl record shop in Monmouth (Image: Photo by David Grandmougin on Unsplash)
Grinning Soul Records in Monmouth brings an innovative approach to vinyl retail, led by Welsh rapper Graham Taylor and author Gary Raymond, who have merged their musical passions in establishing this venture.
As Monmouth’s sole dedicated vinyl retailer, this shop presents another excellent option for Saturday visits.
Heart of the Valleys Records, Blackwood
Alun and his wife Maria (Image: Alun Kent)
Situated in Blackwood’s Market Square, Heart of the Valleys Records operates under Alun Kent’s ownership, focusing on community connection and affordable pre-owned record collections.
Last month, the shop confirmed its closure following nearly fifteen years in business, so now is the time to visit.
The Gwent region appears fully prepared to honor National Record Store Day.