Wow I didn't realise my idea of going to a shop was such a divisive subject! For what it's worth, I do sometimes succumb to buying some things online (accessories mainly), but always prefer to make big purchases in a store, for the pre- and after- sales service. And also small purchases like picks and strings, because what's 50p difference, especially if you've enjoyed a browse and play on some instruments.
Great if you're always stocked up but when you break a string or snap your last pick on the day of a gig, the internet's not going to help you!
Bass Gallery and Wunjo are both fairly near to me so I'll have a look in both, thanks for the suggestions.