Fascinating history on the main shopping streets of Westgate-on-Sea is on show with the town’s first High Street stories trail.
The free, self-guided tour exploring the heritage and retail history of Westgate-on-Sea through the windows of its independent businesses is part of this year’s Open Heritage Days – running until September 20.
Westgate is a town rich in history, from its Victorian origins and seaside traditions to the people, businesses and communities that have shaped it over the decades and helped it thrive during challenging times.
This week you don’t need to visit a museum, pay for a ticket, pop a quid in a donation box, or book an appointment with an archivist to discover more. England Heritage’s Open Days are all about providing local communities with free and inclusive access to information that is too often hidden away in archives and museum stores.
Westgate’s Traders have collaborated with Westgate Heritage Centre and local councillors to bring the town’s history to life,
Fifteen illustrated posters reveal the stories behind the historic buildings that line the town’s high streets, exploring their architectural significance and the people, shops and enterprises that have occupied them over the years.
This year’s trail takes you along Station Road, St Mildred’s Road and St Mildred’s Walk. There is no fixed route and no need to book – simply pick up the trail as you wander around the town centre and explore the stories in whatever order you fancy.
The tour offers a chance to see discover the buildings’ previous lives, the businesses that once occupied them and the stories of the people who contributed to the town’s development.
The history of Westgate isn’t just found in buildings and archives. It’s also held in the memories of the people who have lived, worked and traded there.
As part of the project, visitors and residents are invited to contribute their own memories of Westgate’s shops and traders and help expand the trail for future years.
Do you remember an old shop that once stood on Station Road? Perhaps you remember a particular shopkeeper, business or building from years ago. Your memories could help uncover the next chapter of Westgate’s high street history.
To share your memories and register for an invitation to join a Tea and Chat sessions in Winter 2027, contact Westgate Heritage Centre or Westgate Galleria.
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