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Soctopus: Oxford’s Quirky Sock Haven in the Covered Market

Discover quirky, personality-filled socks with British charm at Soctopus, nestled in Oxford’s historic Covered Market.

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Soctopus is a family-run gift shop nestled within Oxford’s historic Covered Market, specializing in personality-led socks inspired by British and European humor and culture. Known for its wide range of colorful, durable cotton-blend socks, Soctopus offers playful designs that bring a smile to shoppers’ feet. The shop combines a fun, quirky atmosphere with a strong sense of craftsmanship and local charm, making it a unique stop for gifts and sock enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Soctopus

  • Shop 3, Covered Market, Oxford, OX1 3DZ, GB
  • +441865506150
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter shopping experience and attentive service.
  • Explore the full range of sock sizes, from small (4-8) to large (9-12), to find your perfect fit.
  • Pair your Soctopus socks with other boutique brands available in-store for variety and comfort.
  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Oxford’s Covered Market while browsing unique gifts and local delicacies.
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Soctopus location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Soctopus

A Family Legacy of Fun and Fashion

Soctopus began as a family venture inspired by a chance discovery of fun, personality-led socks during a trip to Los Angeles. Nick and Josephine Starsmore, together with their son Cameron, combined their talents from the fashion industry to create a brand that celebrates humor and cultural icons through socks. Their flagship store in Oxford’s Covered Market reflects this passion, offering a vibrant selection that caters to a broad audience with sizes ranging from small to large.

Distinctive Designs with a British and European Flair

The shop’s unique selling point lies in its ability to translate familiar cultural symbols, sports, and hobbies into playful sock designs. The cotton blend used ensures durability and vivid colors, while the range includes other carefully selected brands, such as Happy Socks and Socksmith, alongside their own creations. Though bamboo socks are available from other brands, Soctopus favors cotton for its longevity and color retention.

Located in Oxford’s Historic Covered Market

Soctopus benefits from its prime location in the Covered Market, a bustling and historic shopping arcade dating back to the 1770s. The market itself is a vibrant hub of independent shops and eateries, offering visitors a charming atmosphere filled with artisan goods and local character. Soctopus fits perfectly into this environment, providing a quirky and cheerful shopping experience amid Oxford’s rich cultural tapestry.

Engaging Shopping Experience and Community Spirit

The store is staffed by a tight-knit family team supported by helpers, all bringing a blend of creativity, business savvy, and logistical skill. Their approach emphasizes customer engagement and a sense of humor, making shopping here more than just a transaction but a joyful encounter. The shop’s motto, inspired by Picasso’s quote about inspiration and hard work, reflects their dedication to quality and design.

Practical Details and Offerings

Soctopus operates Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 17:30 and on Sundays from 10:30 to 16:30. The shop does not currently offer children’s socks but provides a broad selection for adults. Alongside their own brand, they stock complementary sock lines that appeal to various preferences, including softness and breathability from bamboo fibers.

Supporting Local and Independent Retail

By shopping at Soctopus, visitors support a local family business embedded in Oxford’s independent retail scene. The shop’s presence in the Covered Market contributes to the market’s reputation as a destination for unique gifts and artisan products, encouraging sustainable shopping and community connection.

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