And the Winner is ...
Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum, Enniskillen.
Bira (the British Independent Retailers Association) has announced the winner of the UK's inaugural "Love Your High Street Awards". Launched in 2025 the Love Your High Street Awards was established to celebrate the businesses that keep the UK's high streets thriving in spite of the many pressures which affect them and their customers.
Founded in 1981 by brothers Nigel and Gordon Johnston, Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum has long welcomed customers with warmth and nostalgia—now serving third generations. In 2002, their adjoining ladies’ salon became a railway museum, showcasing one of Ireland’s largest collections of small railway memorabilia. Covering the Great Northern, Sligo, Leitrim & Northern Counties, and Clogher Valley railways, it operates as a registered charity and award winner, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
Admission is free, with visitors coming worldwide. Dog-friendly and community-focused, it hosts school groups, events, and talks. A popular model railway helps children, including those who are neurodivergent, enjoy the space. Headhunters remains a unique community hub—offering not just haircuts, but history and connection.
The judges said of their winner, "Headhunters have created more than just a barbershop, but a place where people can visit and emersed themselves in a nostalgic environment unchanged by time, a welcoming space filled with warmth, character, and a sense of history that continues to resonate with every visitor."
Other Highly Commended finalists include:
Black City Records, Bristol
The Bookshop, Stockton on Tees
Frankie and Johnny's Cookshop
Rocket and Bird, a business based in Taunton, Somerset, which champions local makers in the area were given a Special Mention by Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre, who said, "We were so impressed by the way Rocket & Bird champion local businesses and makers. Their passion shines through, indie stars of the future! Despite not quite making the final shortlist, we felt it was right they were honoured as part of our awards".
Click HERE for more information on the Winners and the Finalists of the first "Love Your High Street Awards".
