But it is ever changing, as these pictures from the Northampton Chronicle & Echo’s archives show.
Some of these shops are long since gone, others remain but look somewhat different. Either way, this gallery of pictures will bring back memories of shopping in the town centre in years gone by.
5. Looking Back Abington Street Special
2006 - Woolworths on Abington Street, with work going on to refurbish it Photo: Sharon Lucey
6. Looking Back Abington Street Special
2006 - Closing down sale at the Fun Junction. Manager Mike Brandreth pictured outside his shop in Abington Street. Photo: james corbett
7. Looking Back Abington Street Special
2007 - Albert J Ramsbottom fish and chip shop on Abington Street, celebrating their 25th anniversary. Grahame Cook, owner, outside the shop with fish and chips. Photo: Sharon Lucey
2 / 17