Step back in time at Pilgrims Vintage and Retro Shop – Now open Sundays!
Tucked away on historic Burgate, just off Canterbury High Street and only steps from the Cathedral gates, Pilgrims Hospices’ Vintage and Retro Shop is a treasure trove of nostalgia, style, and sustainable shopping.
Whether you’re a local, a student, or visiting from across the globe, this charming store is the perfect place to discover something truly special – and now, with extended opening hours including Sundays, there’s even more time to explore.
From 1940s tea dresses to 1980s statement jackets, quirky bric-a-brac to elegant vintage petticoats, the shop is packed with hand-picked gems. Customers range from locals seeking a nostalgic piece from their past, to college and university students creating unique, modern looks.
Manager Nigel has spotted a new favourite trend:
“Petticoats with Converse is quite the look at the moment,” he says.
“The young ladies love pairing them with a denim jacket and boots – it’s vintage meets street style!”
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The shop also attracts visitors from all over the world – cruise day-trippers looking for a British memento, cathedral tourists, and families hunting for something unique for graduation day. Many fall in love with the bric-a-brac section, filled with retro homeware and keepsakes that capture the charm of yesteryear.
It’s no surprise the store has a growing collection of glowing visitor reviews.
Tamila wrote: “Always lovely staff and great shop.”
Sasha declared it “Best shop everrr!!!” and another happy customer summed it up simply: “10/10 would come again!”
Shopping that makes a difference
Every purchase at Pilgrims Vintage and Retro Shop helps raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, the local end-of-life care charity providing free, compassionate care across east Kent.
By choosing pre-loved, you’re not only supporting sustainable fashion – you’re also helping local people living with incurable illness.
Meet Nigel and the team
Nigel, almost 72, has worked with Pilgrims Hospices’ Retail team for more than 12 years, managing shops in Ramsgate, Chartham, and now Canterbury Vintage and Retro. His flair for the unusual and passion for sustainable fashion make him the perfect guide for anyone seeking something unique.
His motivation for joining Pilgrims was deeply personal:
“A dear friend received the most wonderful care at the Margate hospice after being diagnosed with throat cancer,” Nigel shares.
“I was unprepared for what to expect, but the care couldn’t be faulted. I decided to join Pilgrims to help make a difference – and I absolutely caught the bug. I’ve loved every minute.”
With a team of dedicated volunteers, the shop offers a warm welcome and expert knowledge.
“We provide something for everyone,” Nigel explains.
“From those searching for 40s, 50s or 60s outfits for a vintage occasion or themed wedding, to motorsport fans dressing for Goodwood Revival, we love helping our customers find their unique style. Mixing vintage with modern creates incredible looks – and our men’s vintage section is one of the best around!”
A hub for creativity and opportunity
For crafters and creators, the haberdashery section is an Aladdin’s cave of fabrics, buttons, patterns, and yarn – perfect for sewing, knitting, or upcycling projects.
The shop also offers volunteering opportunities that can build skills and confidence. Faith, a young team member, has gained valuable retail experience that could lead to a career.
Barbara, Nigel’s senior volunteer, has found and developed a real flair for designing and displaying wonderful window ideas, and managing to put them into practice.
Joining the team is Jane, the shop’s new supervisor, whose enthusiasm and support have already made a wonderful impact. Alongside her, the volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the shop, offering invaluable support to Nigel and helping ensure the shop’s success.
“All of our volunteers are priceless,” Nigel says, “and the shop simply couldn’t thrive without them.”
Student perks and sustainable style
Students enjoy a 10% discount all year round, making it a budget-friendly way to express personal style. From themed parties and weddings to everyday outfits, Pilgrims Vintage and Retro proves that sustainable fashion can be exciting, affordable, and one-of-a-kind.
Why visit?
Because you simply can’t visit Canterbury without popping into this hidden gem on Burgate – a street full of charm, history, and independent spirit.
Whether you’re hunting for a graduation outfit, a quirky home accessory, or your next sustainable fashion fix, you’ll find it here – and every purchase supports Pilgrims Hospices’ free care for people across our community.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
Re-opening on Friday 25 July, the Pilgrims Hospices shop at 4 Castle Street becomes a collector’s dream, filled with pre-loved treasures for music lovers, media buffs, and homeware fans – don’t miss it!
Calling all vinyl collectors, bookworms, film fanatics, and retro décor lovers — Pilgrims Hospices is transforming its Castle Street shop in Ashford into a vibrant new space bursting with culture, character, and collectable charm.
Following the huge success of media sales, the shop at 4 Castle Street, Ashford TN23 1JQ is being completely reimagined as a specialist hub for pre-loved media and vintage finds, now with the fabulous addition of a dedicated homeware department!
What’s in store?
Crates of classic vinyl records, CDs, and DVDs
Brilliant books for every taste
Cool musical instruments waiting to be played
A unique homeware section full of retro style and practical pieces
As part of this makeover, the shop will no longer stock clothing – allowing the team to focus entirely on creating a truly special space for media lovers and homeware hunters alike.
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Love the planet? Love pre-loved!
Shopping at Pilgrims isn’t just good for your wallet – it’s good for the environment, too. Choosing second-hand over new helps reduce waste, supports recycling, and encourages more sustainable living.
Make the most of your visit to Ashford
Why not make a day of it? All three Pilgrims shops in Ashford are within easy reach of each other, making it simple to browse for bargains, unique finds and furniture in one trip:
“We’ve created something a bit different for Ashford – a space that feels more like a boutique record and bookshop, with vintage home touches and lots of heart. And the best bit? Every single item you buy helps Pilgrims Hospices care for local people facing life-limiting illness,” said Sarah Lamberton, Pilgrims Retail Area Manager.
Whether you’re styling your home, growing your vinyl collection, or just love a good rummage, our Castle Street shop is the perfect place to start. Support your local hospice, shop pre-loved, and grab something unique while you’re at it.
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with life-limiting conditions. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
14th July 2025
Pop-up style meets purpose – Brand New With Tags sale is back at Tivoli, Margate
Following the roaring success of our first pop-up, this next-level event promises fab fashion finds – all brand new, tagged, and waiting to be snapped up.
From high street faves to designer delights, you’ll discover wardrobe gems at bargain prices, with 100% of proceeds supporting Pilgrims’ expert end-of-life care across Thanet, Ashford, Canterbury and the surrounding communities.
Tivoli Warehouse is usually home to our fantastic range of furniture and household items, so this pop-up clothing event is a fun and fashionable addition to the space – and a brilliant chance to pick up some super bargains!
Jenny Byrne, Retail Area Manager, says:
“Our customers loved the last pop-up, so we couldn’t wait to bring it back – with even more style and sparkle! It’s a fantastic way to raise vital funds for hospice care and give people something fabulous to wear too.”
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Thanks to your support, Pilgrims’ shops raised over £5 million last year, helping to fund care for more than 2,500 patients and families living with a life-limiting illness.
Every top, dress, and pair of trousers you buy helps us continue providing compassionate care, free of charge, wherever it’s needed most.
So grab your mates, your shopping bags and your sass – we’ll see you at Tivoli!
Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, specialist care free of charge to more than 3,000 people in east Kent each year who are living with a terminal illness. Support is offered in patients’ homes, in the community, and at our three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury and Thanet. We also run a 24-hour advice line.
4th June 2025
Celebrate Pride in style with Store50 – where fabulous meets fundraising!
Canterbury is bursting with colour this Pride, taking place on Saturday 7 June 2025 – and we’re right there with you!
Join the celebrations at Store50, the bold, brilliant, beautifully bonkers charity shop run by Pilgrims Hospices.
We’re flying our rainbow flag with pride and sharing the love with limited-edition earrings and super fun phone charms – handmade, eye-catching, and perfect for adding that extra sparkle to your look.
Whether you’re dressing for the parade, cheering from the sidelines, or simply living your best colourful life – pop in and find your Pride accessory of dreams. First-timers are genuinely surprised by the amazing stock on our shelves – and nearly everyone becomes a regular after just one visit!
At Pilgrims Hospices, we are proud to stand together during Pride and every day of the year. We are committed to being open, diverse and equal, respecting and celebrating the individuality of our patients, families, staff and volunteers. Everyone is welcome, and we are here for anyone who needs our support. Inclusivity is at the heart of our care – and we’re working to make sure equality, diversity and inclusion are woven into everything we do.
Store50 is more than a shop – it’s a joyful, planet-friendly place to shop sustainably, support your local community and celebrate life. Every purchase helps Pilgrims Hospices provide expert care to local people living with life-limiting illness. That’s style with real substance.
Eco-friendly shopping = less waste, more love.
Reuse, recycle and re-love – great for your wardrobe and the world!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
23rd April 2025
Sustainable style at Pilgrims Hospices Canterbury Vintage shop and Store50
These two treasure troves offer an array of unique pieces, perfect for anyone looking to make a sustainable style statement.
Canterbury Vintage and Retro brims with timeless classics from retro eras, where high-waisted trousers, polka-dot dresses, and tailored blazers transport you to a more elegant time.
Meanwhile, Store50 brings you modern twists with repurposed and retrended pieces, blending vintage charm with contemporary flair.
Together, they offer endless opportunities to mix and match, experiment, and craft a wardrobe that is as unique as you are.
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All items are preloved and generously donated by supporters who trust that discerning shoppers like you will cherish these treasures and give them a vibrant new lease of life. From timeless vintage gems to creatively repurposed garments, each piece has its own story and charm, waiting to become part of yours.
Whether you’re seeking a bold retro jacket, a delicate vintage scarf, or reimagined denim with a contemporary edge, these shops have something for every style enthusiast. Plus, by shopping with Pilgrims Hospices, you’re not only redefining your wardrobe – you’re making a difference. Every purchase helps fund compassionate end-of-life care for those in need across our local community.
To get inspired, explore the beautifully styled outfits showcased in the photographs, featuring one-of-a-kind items from both shops.
Visit Canterbury Vintage and Retro and Store50 today, where fashion meets purpose. Give preloved treasures a new home and support Pilgrims Hospices in providing vital care.
Together, let’s celebrate sustainable style and compassionate care.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
8th April 2025
Pilgrims Hospices launches exciting Mystery Bag event in Margate
Pilgrims Hospices is inviting bargain hunters and fashion lovers alike to take part in their brand new Mystery Bag event, launching on Thursday 10 April at its Margate Discount store.
For just £5, shoppers can pick up a pre-packed Mystery Bag bursting with at least seven items of ladies’ clothing. Whether you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe, love the thrill of a surprise, or want to support a local cause, these bags promise incredible value and sustainable shopping all in one.
“This is such a fun way for our customers to get great fashion at a low price while supporting the work of Pilgrims Hospices,” says Elizabeth Hilden, Shop Manager at Margate Discount store.
“We hope to develop the Mystery Bags idea as we move forward, with themed bags for stag and hen parties and collections inspired by the amazing gigs and events coming to Dreamland this summer.
“Festival lovers will love grabbing a bag to suit a retro band look or a fun-filled day out. The bags are a great way to extend your existing wardrobe, try out new outfit styles, and add a little something different – all at the bargain price of just £5. Why not give it a try?”
The Margate Mystery Bag will be an ongoing feature at the shop, with fresh drops and new surprises added regularly – so there’s always a reason to pop in and see what’s in store.
The initiative reflects a growing trend in charity retail – combining the joy of second-hand shopping with a lucky dip experience. Across the UK, similar events have proven popular with students, vintage lovers, and eco-conscious shoppers alike.
Mystery Bags help reduce waste, give pre-loved clothes a new home, and raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, which provides free end-of-life care to people across east Kent.
But be quick – we think they will go fast!
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
