Sunday Walks – Retail Therapy

Sunday 3rd August 2025, 2pm

The health and viability of the nation’s high streets are constantly in the news as our patterns of retail therapy change. Discover how Congleton’s main shopping streets have changed over the past 100 years.

The high streets of market towns, like Congleton, have for centuries been the focus for their commercial activity. They have developed by responding to the changing lifestyles and social aspirations of their town’s inhabitants.

The increasing use of photography since the 1880s makes it possible to trace the evolution of Congleton’s main shopping streets. This walk will use images to look at the way in which, for example, small family drapery shops were displaced by national and multi-national high street chain stores, only in their turn to be replaced by out-of-town retail parks and hypermarkets.

Meet at Congleton Museum at 2pm. Pay by either cash or card upon arrival, no need to book in advance. Each attendee will receive a physical booklet which will be referred to during the walk.

Following the walk, a cream tea will be provided back at the museum, upstairs in the Sue Dorman Room. Scones and jams are sourced locally. Please let us know at least 48 hours in advance if you have any dietary requirements or allergies.

Leader Ian Doughty

Adults £10, Friends of Congleton Museum £7, Children FREE.

Please let us know any access enquiries in advance, as walks can be slightly tailored. Dogs are permitted on the walk around the town, but not inside the museum at any time. Guide dogs are welcomed.