Homebase - Market Harborough Market Harborough

Alright, gather 'round, folks! We're about to dive into a little gem of a town called Market Harborough. Now, don't let its name fool you, it's not just any market town. Oh no, it's got a secret weapon. A certain something that makes it stand out like a sparkly unicorn in a field of horses. Ready to find out what it is?

Meet Homebase, the quirky heart of Market Harborough

Picture this: a bustling market town in the heart of Leicestershire, with a high street that's as charming as it is quirky. Now, imagine a building that's been a part of this town's story for centuries, a building that's seen it all - from coaching inns to cinemas, and now, a rather unusual new lease of life. That, my friends, is Homebase.

Yes, you heard it right. The DIY store you might know from your local retail park has found its way into the very heart of Market Harborough. But this isn't your average Homebase. Oh no, this one's got a tale or two to tell.

From coaching inns to cinemas, Homebase's colourful past

Let's rewind back to the 18th century. Homebase was once the grand old coaching inn, The Angel. Picture horse-drawn carriages clattering up to its doors, weary travellers stepping inside for a hearty meal and a well-deserved rest. Fast forward a few centuries, and The Angel had a bit of a career change, transforming into the town's very own picture palace, The Regal Cinema.

Now, I don't know about you, but I find it absolutely delightful that a place that once echoed with the laughter and tears of silver screen classics is now where you can pick up a pack of screws or a new light fitting. It's like a real-life, DIY version of 'Sliding Doors'!

Homebase Market Harborough: A match made in heaven?

But how on earth did a DIY store end up in such a historic building? Well, it turns out, it was a match made in heaven. Or at least, a match made in the mind of local businessman, David Hooper. He had a vision - a vision of a DIY store that was anything but your average big-box retailer. A place that respected the town's history and added a touch of charm to the DIY shopping experience.

And so, in 2012, Homebase Market Harborough was born. The building was given a facelift, but its historic features were lovingly preserved. The result? A DIY store that's as unique as they come. It's like stepping into a time machine that's taken you from the golden age of cinema to the modern world of home improvement.

Quirky features that'll make you smile

Now, you might be thinking, 'That all sounds very nice, but what makes this Homebase so special?' Well, let me tell you, it's the little quirks that make this place a real joy to explore.

First off, there's the fact that the store is actually two buildings in one. The original coaching inn and the former cinema are connected by a rather charming walkway, complete with a glass roof that lets in plenty of natural light. It's like walking through a little slice of history.

Then there's the fact that the store's layout is designed to echo the town's historic high street. You'll find departments laid out like shops in a traditional market town, with each one boasting its own unique character. It's like shopping in a real-life model village!

And if that wasn't enough, the store's even got its very own secret garden. Tucked away behind the building, it's a little oasis of calm, filled with plants and flowers that'll make you forget you're in the middle of a bustling town. It's the perfect place to take a little breather while you plan your next DIY project.

Homebase Market Harborough: A local favourite

But what makes Homebase Market Harborough truly special is the way it's become a real hub for the local community. It's not just a place to pick up a paintbrush or a pack of screws, it's a place where people come to chat, to catch up, and to share their latest DIY triumphs (and perhaps a few tales of woe, too!).

The store's even got its own community noticeboard, where local groups and events can share their news. It's like the town's very own little village square, all under one rather unique roof.

And let's not forget the store's annual open day. Every year, Homebase Market Harborough throws open its doors and invites the whole town in for a day of fun, games, and giveaways. It's a celebration of the store's unique history and its place at the heart of the community.

So, what are you waiting for?

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a history buff, or just someone who loves a good story, Homebase Market Harborough is well worth a visit. It's a place where history and modernity meet, where quirkiness and charm abound, and where you can pick up a pack of screws and a slice of history all in one go.

So, go on, pop into Homebase Market Harborough. You never know, you might just find that it's not just a DIY store - it's a real-life adventure.