A tunnel through time
New Hope proud to be part of the Queens Road community
For more than three decades, New Hope has been proud to call Queens Road home - serving the community of Watford and standing alongside the independent shops and traders that give the area its distinctive character.
New Hope’s footprint in Queens Road was established more than 35 years ago with its first charity shop at No. 87. From the very start, the shop was more than just a retail space - it was a place where local people could donate, volunteer, shop sustainably, and directly support those facing homelessness and hardship in Watford.
As the charity’s work grew, so did its presence in the street. In 1993, New Hope moved to larger premises at No. 67, its current home, enabling the team to expand its retail offer, welcome more volunteers, and raise even more vital funds to support its services across the borough. No. 67 is still probably the largest charity shop in Watford.
“New Hope’s first charity shop brough new life and new people to Queens Road. These days there is always a queue waiting outside the door when we open.” Polly, volunteer shop manager
More recently New Hope’s recovery centre, New Hope House, opened next door to the shop, increasing the charity’s presence and influence in the street.
Today, that same commitment to community established at No. 87 all those years ago, remains at the heart of everything New Hope does.
New collage captures Queens Road’s history
Queens Road has long been known for its vibrant mix of independent businesses, cafés, salons and long-standing family-run shops. Over the decades, the street has evolved, but its sense of identity and individuality has remained.
That shared history is now beautifully captured in a new collage installed in the Queens Road underpass. The artwork features a panoramic view of each side of the street with photographs of shops and traders from across the years. It celebrates the businesses, organisations and individuals that have helped shaped the area. The New Hope shop, and colleagues from the charity, are proudly included.
For New Hope, being part of this visual timeline is a powerful reminder of its deep roots in the neighbourhood. It reflects not only longevity, but trust - built through decades of local support, loyal customers and dedicated volunteers.
More than a charity shop
While many know New Hope for its welcoming charity shop, the organisation’s impact stretches far beyond retail. Funds raised in Queens Road directly support services for people experiencing homelessness and other forms of social exclusion in Watford.
Being based in the heart of Queens Road means New Hope is visible, accessible and connected - a daily reminder that local action can make a difference.
“For years, the shop has been a place where people can come and make friends as well as buying their bits and pieces and raising money for New Hope.” Polly
Every donated item, every purchase and every volunteered hour helps transform lives by providing practical support, advice and pathways to brighter futures, for those experiencing homelessness in our community.
