A list of independent creative zines and publications across the UK
Independent zines have long been a medium of creative expression, with historical ties to DIY art, philosophy and subculture. They’ve come a long way from their origins as science fiction fandoms in the 1930s – now functioning as an exceptional way to draw creative inspiration and find or build like-minded creative communities. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best independent creative zines and publications for your reading pleasure.
If you’re looking for something to spur on your next artistic endeavour, we’ve gathered a selection spanning various creative disciplines and themes. From art, poetry, football, music, fashion, politics, culture and everything in between, we’re sure there’s something in here for you to dive into. Have a browse through to support independent creators whilst gaining a serious dose of creative inspiration!
Fem Zine
Founded by Mia Maxwell, Fem Zine was first published in 2017. Intersectional and inclusive, the zine focuses on celebrating the work of women, non-binary, gender non-conforming and trans individuals, covering topics like representation, gender, class, and disability. The team also organises a variety of events, so keep an eye on their Instagram to get involved!
Aghh! Zine
An independent publication founded in Brighton, Aghh! Zine aims to creating a safe space to explore and discuss taboo and non-mainstream topics. The zine focuses on themes often underrepresented in mainstream media, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of queer, BIPOC and other marginalised communities.
Dance Policy
Dance Policy explores dance, youth, and street culture, particularly in smaller, grassroots venues. Founded with a mission to create a "gentler revolution in music reporting," the zine features interviews with up-and-coming DJs and event promoters and a range of photography and long-form articles.
BathMagg
BathMagg is an online poetry magazine that offers a platform for both established and emerging writers, with a focus on poetry. Their final issue was recently released in April 2024, but all 13 past issues remain accessible online to ensure that the zine's legacy continues.
Brownies Zine
Describing themselves as a 'fun and independent mag for South-Asian creativity and culture', Brownies was founded by Amber Shah. The second issue was published this summer, themed around the concepts of “re-claiming and re-defining”.
Offlicence Magazine
Playfully taking their name from the British cultural landmark, the corner shop, also known as the off licence (or “offie”), this Brighton-based publication spans underground music, photography and culture. It offers plenty of great interviews with musicians and artists alike.
OOMK Zine
OOMK Zine (One of My Kind) is a collaborative publishing practice that advocates for the inclusion of women from diverse ethnic backgrounds in creative spaces. Their work is highly visual, using techniques such as risograph printing – and the team regularly hold open-access workshops, so you can kick start your very own zine-making project.
Weird Walk
Weird Walk zine was created by three friends who had spent extended periods of time together roaming the British countryside, and felt compelled to capture the stories of folklore, foraging and history that they came across amongst the landscape.
Polyester Zine
Featuring articles and interviews that engage with pop culture, music and the internet, Polyester Zine is a self-published, intersectional feminist arts and culture magazine that bridges the gap between cyber and IRL feminism. They also host regular talks and events.
Sabat Magazine
Sabat explores the notion of contemporary witchcraft by engaging largely with its appearance in Tumblr and Instagram culture. The zine publishes interviews, essays, articles and visuals, examining the perceptions of the occult especially through aesthetic expression.
Sweet-thang Zine
Sweet-thang zine is a print zine and independent press publishing work by Black creatives worldwide. Their publications are written collaboratively with artists from all around the world who share a love and interest in the practices of zine culture, radical publishing and art as activism. Sweet-thang also delivers zine-making workshops to facilitate collective making, build manifestos and learn about the history of zines and creation through an accessible, anti-mainstream lens.
Buffalo Magazine
Buffalo Magazine’s design and format changes with each issue – with an overarching theme of satire. Previous editions have focused on gender roles, art, friendship groups, memes and life on social media.
Season Zine
Somewhere between a football fanzine and a fashion mag, Season Zine tells stories surrounding football and fashion, spotlighting female fans and marginalised communities within the sphere. With a commitment to authentic storytelling, the zine seeks to counteract the traditional white and male-dominated culture of the sport.
Oof Magazine
Founded on the belief that football and art have more in common than one might think – namely, the power to make people collectively feel – this independent magazine is an extension of the Oof gallery in London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and combines the two activities in a bi-annual publication.
So Young
Having recently celebrated the publication of their 40th issue, So Young focuses on a close-up view of the alternative music scene. Having made a name for themselves as a key player in the lo-fi aesthetics music zine space, they have expanded their output to starting their own record label, hosting live shows and developing their own line of merch.
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This article was originally published in December 2022, but has been updated in August 2024.
With special thanks to James Stone and Zoe Thompson.
Got a favourite zine or indie publication we missed? Let us know – DM us on Instagram or send us an email at [email protected]!
Written by Creative Lives in Progress
