Northampton as it used to be: 23 nostalgic photos reveal shops and buildings in the Drapery lost to time

By David Summers

Published 3rd Nov 2025, 16:57 BST

The Drapery is one of Northampton's most recognisable streets, not only for its stores and businesses but also its architecture over the years.

Much has changed in recent decades, but these 23 photographs from the archives of the Chronicle & Echo show The Drapery in times gone by with many of the buildings and shops long since gone and changed beyond recognition.

Some of the images from the Chronicle & Echo archives

1. Looking Back Drapery Special

Some of the images from the Chronicle & Echo archives Photo: Chron

Drapery, Northampton and Jos Tebbutt's Printing Works building and entrance to the Fish Market, February 11, 1959

2. Looking Back Drapery Special

Drapery, Northampton and Jos Tebbutt's Printing Works building and entrance to the Fish Market, February 11, 1959 Photo: Chron

Boots new department store on corner of Gold Street and Drapery, Northampton town centre, September 12, 1959

3. Looking Back Drapery Special

Boots new department store on corner of Gold Street and Drapery, Northampton town centre, September 12, 1959 Photo: Chron

Gold Street-Drapery junction, Northampton town centre, October 10, 1968

4. Looking Back Drapery Special

Gold Street-Drapery junction, Northampton town centre, October 10, 1968 Photo: Chron