Pilgrims Hospices launches exciting Mystery Bag event in Margate
Pilgrims Hospices is inviting bargain hunters and fashion lovers alike to take part in their brand new Mystery Bag event, launching on Thursday 10 April at its Margate Discount store.
For just £5, shoppers can pick up a pre-packed Mystery Bag bursting with at least seven items of ladies’ clothing. Whether you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe, love the thrill of a surprise, or want to support a local cause, these bags promise incredible value and sustainable shopping all in one.
“This is such a fun way for our customers to get great fashion at a low price while supporting the work of Pilgrims Hospices,” says Elizabeth Hilden, Shop Manager at Margate Discount store.
“We hope to develop the Mystery Bags idea as we move forward, with themed bags for stag and hen parties and collections inspired by the amazing gigs and events coming to Dreamland this summer.
“Festival lovers will love grabbing a bag to suit a retro band look or a fun-filled day out. The bags are a great way to extend your existing wardrobe, try out new outfit styles, and add a little something different – all at the bargain price of just £5. Why not give it a try?”
The Margate Mystery Bag will be an ongoing feature at the shop, with fresh drops and new surprises added regularly – so there’s always a reason to pop in and see what’s in store.
The initiative reflects a growing trend in charity retail – combining the joy of second-hand shopping with a lucky dip experience. Across the UK, similar events have proven popular with students, vintage lovers, and eco-conscious shoppers alike.
Mystery Bags help reduce waste, give pre-loved clothes a new home, and raise vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices, which provides free end-of-life care to people across east Kent.
But be quick – we think they will go fast!
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
4th April 2025
Pilgrims Hospices’ Store50 in Canterbury reopens with exciting new look and stock
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the grand reopening of Store50, our beloved charity shop in St Peter’s Street, Canterbury, following an extensive refurbishment.
The refreshed store is now open, offering an enhanced shopping experience filled with fantastic pre-loved fashion and unique outfit opportunities.
Discover your perfect look
With a stylish new layout and an abundance of fashionable finds, customers can now create their own special outfits from our carefully curated collection of second-hand fashion.
Whether you’re searching for a chic party ensemble, a stylish work outfit, or something casual yet trendy, our friendly team is always ready to help you put together the perfect look.
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New sportswear department
One of the most exciting additions to Store50 is our brand-new sports department, located on the upper floor. This dedicated space showcases high-quality sportswear from well-known brands, ensuring shoppers can find activewear that makes their outfits pop.
Amy, Store50’s Shop Manager, shared her enthusiasm:
“We knew that sportswear was always one of our most popular ranges, so we’ve dedicated more space and created a fantastic display area to showcase our products. We can’t wait for our customers to explore this new section and discover great finds.”
Sustainable shopping for a better future
By shopping at Store50, customers are not only refreshing their wardrobes, but also making a positive impact on the environment. Buying pre-loved fashion helps reduce carbon footprints and supports sustainable shopping habits.
Plus, by visiting us on foot or using eco-friendly transport, shoppers are helping to protect our planet while raising vital funds for Pilgrims Hospices’ compassionate end-of-life care services in the community.
We invite everyone to visit Store50, explore our exciting new stock, and be part of a shopping experience that is both stylish and sustainable.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Pilgrims Hospices is a charity dedicated to providing expert care and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses in east Kent. Our services ensure comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families, offering compassionate care both in hospice settings and in the community.
17th January 2025
New Pilgrims Hospices pop-up shop opens in Ashford
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest shop, Ashford Discount, located at Unit 38, County Square Shopping Centre in Ashford.
The new shop will complement the existing Ashford General and Furniture shops, offering an even broader shopping experience for customers.
Filled with quality clothing items priced under £5, shoppers can now snap up incredible bargains while supporting vital, compassionate care in the community and helping to reduce landfill waste at the same time. Additionally, students can enjoy a 10% discount on their purchases.
The new discount pop-up shop features a wide array of donated clothing items, with many priced under £5.
Sarah Lamberton, Pilgrims Retail Area Manager shared: “The shop will be brimming with bargains suitable for all ages and needs. Whether you’re looking to add some shirts or blouses to your work wardrobe, or searching for a budget-friendly party outfit, we invite you to come and explore our selection. There’s something for everyone!”
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Pilgrims Hospices’ new discount pop-up shop and discover fantastic deals on high-quality clothing items. Join us in supporting a great cause while enjoying great savings.
Make a donation; all donations, big or small, make a huge difference
Volunteer your time; volunteers play a crucial role in helping keep the hospice caring
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
18th December 2024
Step into Wonderland this Christmas at Pilgrims Hospices Westgate-on-Sea shop!
Pilgrims Hospices’ Westgate shop is bringing festive cheer to the high street with its stunning Alice in Wonderland-themed window display, designed by Manager Vanessa Turner and her talented team of staff, volunteers, friends, and family.
The whimsical scene is captivating the hearts of passers-by, encouraging them to step inside and discover the magic of sustainable shopping.
Vanessa, who has a passion for creating eye-catching displays, said: “I think the window displays are one of my favourite things to do! I’m always on the lookout for creative ideas, and when we’re so generously donated items that spark inspiration, it’s so much fun to bring it all together. These displays don’t just brighten the street; they encourage people to pop in, have a browse, and often make a purchase, supporting the vital work of Pilgrims Hospices.”
The Alice in Wonderland theme, with its quirky characters and enchanting story, reminds us of the wonder in the everyday – much like the surprises you can find when exploring the shop’s diverse collection of pre-loved clothing, accessories, and household items. Every purchase contributes to Pilgrims Hospices’ mission to provide compassionate end-of-life care for those in need across east Kent.
As awareness of sustainable fashion and eco-friendly shopping grows, Vanessa notes that customers are increasingly mindful of the choices they make:
“People are far more savvy about how they shop now, with many considering the environment and looking for greener options. We’re proud to offer a wide range of quality items that encourage thoughtful purchasing and reduce waste.”
The Westgate-on-Sea shop team
The shop is a hub of community spirit, with a strong local vibe that sees supporters regularly donating and shopping, helping to sustain Pilgrims Hospices’ essential services. By shopping here, you’re not just nabbing a bargain or a unique piece – you’re making a real difference in the lives of families facing terminal illness.
So why not follow the White Rabbit and explore this fantastical display for yourself? You’ll find treasures galore, festive cheer, and the chance to support an incredible cause.
Follow our Westgate shop on social media for the latest news and updates:
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce that the Canterbury Retail Christmas Fair, held on Saturday 30 November 2024 at St. Dunstan’s Church Hall, raised an incredible £2,450 – surpassing last year’s total!
Charlotte Brown, Pilgrims Hospices’ Shop Manager at the St. Dunstan’s shop, and her dedicated team of volunteers created a magical festive atmosphere, welcoming hundreds of visitors eager to shop for Christmas decorations, gifts, toys, and more. The day wouldn’t have been complete without special appearances from Father Christmas and Mrs. Christmas, delighting children and adults alike.
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“Thank you so much to everyone who supported our Christmas Fair,” said Charlotte. “We love hosting this event for our local community, who support us so brilliantly. It was wonderful to see familiar faces and welcome new ones, with many stopping to enjoy tea, cake, and a friendly chat. Every penny raised will go towards providing vital end-of-life care in our community.”
Pilgrims Hospices is immensely grateful for the support that makes events like this so successful, helping to continue the charity’s mission of providing compassionate care to those who need it most.
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
27th November 2024
Pilgrims Hospices brings fashionability to Tankerton with exciting new charity shop
Pilgrims Hospices is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its brand new charity shop, NWT@Tankerton (New With Tags), located at 106 Tankerton Road, Tankerton, Whitstable CT5 2AJ.
This innovative store, opening its doors at 10:00am on Thursday 5 December 2024, offers a unique twist on charity shopping – every single item in the store is unworn and comes with its original retailer tags.
This is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a haven for fashion lovers who value quality, sustainability and a good bargain. Shoppers can expect to find a dazzling range of items, from high street favourites to luxurious high-end brands, all at a fraction of the price.
“We’re so excited to welcome shoppers to NWT@Tankerton,” said Karen Hills, Shop Manager. “It’s a unique concept that brings incredible value to our customers while supporting the vital work of Pilgrims Hospices. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping party outfit, a thoughtful gift, or a wardrobe refresh, NWT@Tankerton has something for everyone.”
Mandy Hawkett, Retail Area Manager and Karen Hills, NWT@Tankerton Shop Manager
What makes NWT@Tankerton special?
This pioneering store is the first of its kind in the UK, dedicated exclusively to new, tagged items. Pilgrims Hospices receives thousands of these high-quality garments annually, generously donated by supporters. Now, for the first time, these gems will be available year-round in one convenient location.
This sustainable shopping model is perfect for eco-conscious shoppers who want to reduce textile waste while still indulging in retail therapy.
Opening hours: 10:00am on opening day; 9:00am – 4:30pm Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays)
Come along, meet the team, and enjoy the festive atmosphere! You’ll find an array of clothing and accessories perfect for the holiday season, including glamorous party wear, cosy winter essentials, and more.
Fashionability and purpose
NWT@Tankerton combines fashionability with purpose, offering a guilt-free shopping experience. Every purchase contributes directly to funding Pilgrims Hospices’ compassionate end-of-life care across east Kent. In addition to supporting the charity’s vital work, shoppers are also making an eco-friendly choice by opting for sustainable fashion.
More than just a shop
Want to do more? NWT@Tankerton is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the team!
Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, learn new skills, and support your community. For more information, click here.
Keep in touch!
For the latest fashion tips, outfit inspiration, and sneak peeks at the fabulous items in store:
With 32 shops across east Kent, Pilgrims Hospices provides compassionate, end-of-life care for patients and families. Proceeds from all shop sales directly fund this vital work, supporting the community in countless ways.
Be part of this exciting new venture, and join us on 5 December at NWT@Tankerton. Let’s shop, save, and support together!
Each year, Pilgrims Hospices care for thousands of people across east Kent, with services provided from its three hospice sites in Ashford, Canterbury, and Thanet, as well as in patients’ own homes. It costs over £17.2 million annually to run these services, much of which comes from the generous support of the local community.
