More than shopping, it’s a vibe – Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home opening soon
Photograph: Ros Bray, volunteer, with Andy Brady, Shop Manager
Pilgrims Hospices is delighted to announce the opening of its exciting new Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home store on Thursday 12 February 2026, bringing a fresh, feel-good shopping destination to the heart of the community.
This is not a clearance warehouse — it’s a beautifully curated, pre-loved shopping experience packed with hundreds of high street brands, stylish finds and creative treasures, all under one roof.
After the closure of our much-loved shop at the local garden centre, supporters told us loud and clear that they missed having a place nearby to shop sustainably. Thanks to your generosity, that much-loved experience is back — and better than ever.
Fashion for everyone
Shoppers can browse an inspiring range of men’s, ladies’ and children’s clothing, with quality brands, great styles and excellent value. Whether you’re hunting for everyday essentials, a statement piece or a bargain with a story behind it, there’s something waiting to be discovered.
A new creative hub
By popular demand, the new store also features a haberdashery and creative department, perfect for crafters, up-cyclers, sewists and anyone who loves making something special from something pre-loved. Expect buttons, fabrics, patterns and hidden gems — the kind of place that sparks ideas and Instagram-worthy finds.
The fashion and home store sits alongside the much-loved Chartham Furniture Warehouse, making it easy to browse everything from clothing and accessories to homewares and furniture in one inspiring visit.
With plenty of parking and a warm, friendly team of volunteers ready to help, it’s designed to be relaxed, welcoming and fun — a place to wander, discover and feel good about every purchase.
All items are donated by Pilgrims supporters, giving quality clothing and homeware a second life while raising vital funds for hospice care across east Kent. By choosing pre-loved, shoppers are saving money, reducing waste and supporting local families — triple win shopping at its best.
At the heart of it: Volunteers like Ros
Ros Bray from Bridge has volunteered with Pilgrims Hospices’ retail team for 12 years, after first spotting a volunteers’ needed notice while visiting the furniture shop with a friend.
“I came along to meet the team — and the rest is history,” Ros smiles. “I’ve loved every minute.”
After retiring as a teaching assistant and nursery nurse, Ros wanted to give her time to a meaningful cause. “Retail volunteering fits really well with my background. I love working with people, helping customers, and I enjoy being part of such a friendly, welcoming team.”
Shop Manager, Andy Brady, said:
“We love having Ros with us. She’s organised, calm in busy situations and brings real warmth to the shop. I have a team of around 25 staff and volunteers, every one one of them is truly a valued member of my team.”
Ros volunteers three mornings a week, balancing family life and time with her grandchildren. “I enjoy helping raise funds for such important, compassionate care in our community. It’s important everyone has something that’s just for them.”
The new shop, accessible through the existing furniture store or a brand-new side entrance, is a space Ros says “is going to look amazing — shoppers will love it.”
We’d love you to join us to celebrate the official opening of Chartham Furniture, Fashion and Home on Thursday 12 February 2026, when we’ll be welcoming special guests and supporters to help mark this exciting new chapter.
Mandy Hawkett, Area Manager, said:
“The Pilgrims concession in the garden centre was a massive loss for us and the community, so we’re absolutely thrilled to be creating a new home for the amazing donations we receive from our supporters. This isn’t just a warehouse — it’s a vibrant, inspiring place to shop. We’ve listened to what people want, from great fashion to creative spaces, and we’re excited to bring something truly special back to the community.”
The store will be open for shopping and donations Monday to Saturday, 9am–4pm:
- Address: Unit 2/3 Stour Business Park, Chartham CT14 7HF
- Telephone: 01227 203 181
Andy added:
“There’s a real buzz already. The quality of children’s clothing especially is incredible — great brands, great condition and great styles. People are always amazed by what they find here, and knowing it supports local hospice care makes every bargain even better.”
Chartham Furniture, Fashion & Home is the newest addition to Pilgrims Hospices’ family of shops across east Kent, all offering an easy, enjoyable way to shop more sustainably while supporting compassionate end-of-life care.
Don’t forget — you can also donate your pre-loved items directly at the Chartham store; and if you’re a taxpayer, Gift Aid adds an extra 25% to the value of your donation at no extra cost, helping your generosity go even further.
Find out more on our shop with us webpage.
Come along, say hello, enjoy a bargain — and help us celebrate this wonderful new community space.
