Anybody who lives in the Northamptonshire area, specifically Kettering, knows about The Yards. It hasn't been around for long but my goodness it's taken the town by storm. This unique environment has been risen from an area that was once abandoned and forgotten. The change itself that this project has made has been huge and, in my opinion, beneficial for the town in so many ways. It gives local independent businesses a chance to showcase and sell everything they have to offer in an interesting and creative environment. The best part is, this place has only just begun to show its potential.
A couple of weeks ago, I decided to take a trip to The Yards to see for myself what it was all about. I had heard from almost every person I know, just how amazing this place apparently was so instantly I was interested in seeing for myself. I did not regret my decision at all. As soon as you enter this place it just oozes with creativity and retro/unique style.
Being a lover of all things vintage, the stall 'Vintage Bean' was obviously the first to catch my eye. From fabrics and ribbons to cases and Hogwarts memorabilia, this place is the perfect little stall to go to if you're looking to either spruce up your home or satisfy your love of textiles.
The main building itself is amazing. As soon as you enter there are stalls all around you with a variety of products to offer. In total there are 3 floors and what I love the most is that to get to each floor, it's like an adventure... which just makes the experience of shopping there just that little bit more fun.
Now I could go on all day about every single stall in The Yards, but I don't think I, let alone anyone reading, have the time. So I will narrow it down.
There is literally something for everyone in this place.
For anybody was a sweet tooth or love/interest in American Candy, there's 'Randalls'. From Hershey's to Arizona Tea and Snapple, you'll easily find something to satisfy your taste buds!
Anybody who loves anything floral, homeware or unique.. there is the whole of the second floor to take your fancy. Personally, I calculated at least £100 worth of stuff I wanted to buy up there.
For those who love vinyl, no matter what genre of music you prefer, there's 'Area 51'. Side note... props to them for having Whitesnake there. You guys made my day with that one!
And finally, anyone who loves retro clothing or just fashion as a whole, the third floor is for you. I personally loved 'Mink' and had to be dragged away before I bought almost everything in my sight there. Also, if you visit the third floor and find something you like...try it on. I know that sounds obvious but believe me, as you can see from the shots I got.. the changing rooms are by far the best ones you're ever going to go into. Such amazing artwork and the mirrors are divine!
I was lucky enough to go to The Yards during the build up to Halloween so I was able to see the Halloween room they had put together to celebrate the holidays. They had took items from a variety of stalls within the establishment to put the room together and the efforts they went to really showed. From scary pumpkins and dark plants to vintage maxi dresses and wooden hands swearing at you or rocking on, this room really showed the Halloween spirit and everything good about this beloved holiday. Plus, don't get me started about the amazing gothic mirrors... if I had the room in my house, they would have been mine in a heartbeat.
In conclusion, I would recommend this place to every single one of my friends. There is something for everyone and it's only going to get better. They are still working on and creating new establishments (I think there is a bar and kitchen opening soon... totally don't dream of a job there at all (; ) and it's something that I believe is really going to put Kettering out there as a town. SO, if you are around in Kettering and have a lot of money to spare, because you will need it, go support all these amazing sellers and The Yards as a whole.
Plus... the efforts they went to for Halloween make me so excited for what they have in store for CHRISTMAS!! :D
Well that's all for now folks, hope you enjoyed this ramble. I'm not the best when it comes to reviews but I just had to write about this place! It's truly amazing :)
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