About Vagrant Guitars and Effects

Independent. Passionate. Built around music.

Vagrant Guitars and Effects is an independent guitar shop in the heart of Stockton-on-Tees, founded by local musicians Jim Riggall and “Snowy” in December 2024.

From day one, Vagrant was created to be more than somewhere to buy a guitar. It’s a place to pick up an instrument, have a chat, try something new, share stories and, most importantly, feel at home.

We know that walking into a guitar shop for the first time can be daunting. That’s why we’ve always wanted Vagrant to be different. Whether you’re buying your very first guitar, hunting for a vintage instrument, looking for the perfect pedal or you’ve been playing for decades, you’ll find a friendly face and people who genuinely want to help.

Guitars are made to be played.

That simple idea sits at the heart of everything we do. We believe instruments shouldn’t just sit on walls — they should be picked up, played, experimented with and enjoyed. That’s why we encourage you to take your time, plug in, have a play and find something that inspires you.

Our range includes guitars, basses, effects pedals and accessories from some fantastic brands, alongside carefully selected vintage and second-hand instruments. We’re always looking for interesting pieces to add to the collection, particularly guitars with a bit of history and a story to tell.

Since opening, Vagrant has grown from two local musicians with an idea into a small team of people who share the same obsession with guitars and music. Tom Blackwell brings his knowledge and passion for vintage and acoustic guitars, while James Stoker brings a love of guitar building, instruments and effects.

But the most important part of Vagrant has always been the people who walk through the door.

We’re particularly proud of the role we can play in helping new musicians get started. There’s something pretty special about seeing someone walk out of the shop with their first guitar — knowing that, hopefully, it’ll be the beginning of a lifelong relationship with music.

So whether you know exactly what you’re looking for or you haven’t got a clue where to start, come and see us.

Pick up a guitar. Have a play. Stay for a chat.

Welcome to Vagrant.