Tinker, tailor, soldier, sailor; in praise of Army Surplus Stores

Army Surplus stores are thin on the ground now. Once upon a time, they were part and parcel of a ‘make do and mend’ National mentality, packed to the rafters with household tools, workwear and camping equipment, as well as military clothing. There used to be a giant one in Ealing; I remember going with a friend to buy twin boiler suits for a school dance performance of ‘Grease Lightening’. They cost next to nothing. It was a fantastic shop: jam-packed, musty smelling, pasted with pictures from Guns & Ammo Monthly. Several years ago, it went bust.

Surviving Army Surplus stores often cater to trends more than practical needs, perhaps homing in on the corner of the market that generates most profit. Khakis, camo jackets, Doc Martins, embroidered patches and red Libertines-esque military jackets are styles that have helped Army Surplus stores stay afloat. Fancy dress is another strong footing. If you’ve got a nautical themed night to attend, or you’re after a GI Joe ensemble, Army Surplus stores can invariably kit you out for less cash than a costume shop.   

The decline of the Army Surplus store is a sad one. Over the years, they’ve lost out to hardware and camping specialists. When you can, offer them your custom; they’re so much better than you think they are. Here are a few you might like to visit:

VICTORIA CAMPING & SURPLUS

Address: 47 The Cut, Southwark, London SE1 8LF

Tel: 020 7928 4110

Waterproofs, roll mats, sleeping bags, etc. Victoria Camping & Surplus is handily near to Waterloo station and is a good one-stop-shop for all happy campers. Phone for opening hours.

EURO ARMY AND NAVY STORE
Address: 178 Kilburn High Road, London NW6 4JD

Tel: 020 7372 2323

Everything you could possibly need for costume shindigs and outdoor activities alike. Fishing equipment, cadet uniforms, airguns and archery, footwear, Reginald hats and more. They stock kiddies’ sizes too. Check for opening hours.

BOUND FOR GLORY

Address: Stall 451, Camden Stables Market, NW1

Strictly military clothing. No tent pegs and WD40 here. Look out for the owner – he’s usually storming around dress in fancy dress himself.

ARMY CLASSICS

Address: 49 Pembridge Road, Notting Hill, London W11 3HG

Tel: 020 7221 7117

Best for army style clothing, fancy dress and military trends. Call for opening hours.

WALWORTH SURPLUS STORE
Address: 211 Walworth Road, London SE17 1RL

The owner of this place is, it’s fair to say, not a people person. Don’t bother calling in advance to enquire about stock: all you’ll get is a gruff ‘come on down!’ and then the dial tone. Equally, there are no set opening times – this guy is semi retired and opens the shop whenever he damn well pleases. On the plus side, the store is a complete gem, overflowing and riddled with dust. You feel as though you’re stepping back in time. Hardware, outdoor clothing and military trends are all covered to a greater or lesser extent but, as I said before, it’s impossible to know what’s in stock unless you actually go there.