The women-owned businesses you love
To mark International Women’s Day 2026, we asked our 66k readers to share their favourite women-led small businesses – the ones they would genuinely recommend to friends.
We received hundreds of brilliant responses.
From dog cafés to zero-waste milk carts, strength-training gyms to vintage brooch stalls, this was a reminder that a huge amount of London’s culture and community is built by women running small, independent operations – often without much fanfare (or margin for error).
Here are some of our readers’ recommendations, in their own words.
“Fair-Well – a zero-waste electric milk cart (in various north London locations) selling dried goods, oils and sauces. It was a lifesaver during Covid. Now there’s a shop too, and they host yoga.”
“The Ginger Fig Club – a place for women who find themselves on their own and want to be more social, especially in midlife and beyond.”
“Audra’s Brooches – fabulous vintage brooches at Coal Drops Yard Market in King’s Cross. Such a gem.”
“Deserted Cactus – a black woman-owned business in Peckham serving the most delicious vegan Caribbean food. No frills, just amazing flavours and a lovely community vibe.”
“Buttercup Bus – beautiful vintage vehicles for weddings and events, run by an absolute powerhouse who’s based in Croydon.”
“Snuffle Dog Café – an off-lead café in Sydenham that completely transformed our nervous rescue dog. It even turns into a wine bar on Fridays.”
“Luminary Bakery – incredible baked goods and an amazing social mission.”
“Audrey’s Massages – genuinely brilliant treatments (in north west London), and she even makes her own products.”
“Lovemore Life Coaching – supporting women navigating burnout, life transitions and the pressures of modern work.”
“Happy Doses – colourful, joyful illustrated greeting cards inspired by nature and wildlife.”
“Train Yard London – a strength-training gym (in Clapham North and Wapping) creating accessible, welcoming spaces for women. Smaller classes, focus on form, great community.”
“Fitbirds Fitness – building joy, wellness and community in Lewisham. They even run free strength sessions and workshops.”
“The Emperor’s Old Clothes – sustainable, made-to-measure clothing, socially conscious and beautifully made.”
“Lyonsleaf – women-owned natural skincare that’s clean, simple and brilliant.”
“DateBreak – gourmet stuffed dates with little reflective questions inside. Perfect for gatherings.”
What stood out when reading through these recommendations wasn’t just what these businesses sell. It was how our readers described feeling because of them: welcomed, supported, stronger, calmer, more connected.
If you’re looking to spend your money a bit more intentionally this month, this feels like a good place to start.
And if you run something women-led yourself – keep going. London is better for it. 🧡
