It’s taken 2 months of living in Rugby before I’ve managed to get feet on the ground in the town centre.
Like most UK town centres, Rugby’s is somewhat past its peak. A very large out-of-town retail complex – when combined with the impact of online – has left the high street sad and strange (weirdos in abundance). Clearly, the presence of a famous private school isn’t enough to keep the town centre vibrant.
It’s a shame, but the fact I’ve not been myself for two months since moving here speaks of its marginal relevance. Rugby is commuter belt, there’s lots of money but a fraction of it circulates locally. It’s all earned and spent elsewhere.
There are some decent looking restaurants though, indie cafes and architecturally, there are a few roads that would look lovely on a fair day. Hopefully we will have one soon!
Dr Martin James 