How Bishop’s Stortford town centre compares to Cambridge, Chelmsford, Saffron Walden, Harlow and Welwyn

Bishop’s Stortford BID (Business Improvement District) joint-manager Karen Burton writes for the Indie

I have a confession to make - and brace yourselves because it’s a big one. Sometimes I shop outside of Bishop’s Stortford. I know, I know. Shocking!

But it’s true. Occasionally I go elsewhere for a bite to eat, a bit of a wander or even (whisper it) because I prefer something they offer. And guess what? That’s totally okay.

I live in Bishop’s Stortford, I love Bishop’s Stortford and I genuinely believe our town centre punches above its weight. But stepping out of town now and then doesn’t mean I’m betraying it. If anything, those little jaunts make me appreciate our home turf even more. It’s not about disloyalty, it’s just nice to have a change every now and then.

Personally, I avoid online shopping whenever I can. Partly on principle and also because, as a former shopkeeper and now as joint BID manager advocating for the town centre’s economic community, I’m a firm believer in the magic of in-person experience. You can’t beat the feel of a product in your hands, the buzz of a busy café or a friendly chat with a local trader. It’s not just about buying stuff, it’s about being part of something. That’s what keeps town centres alive.

But let’s get one thing straight: there’s no rule that says we have to pick a side. You don’t lose your Bishop’s Stortford credentials just because you popped over to Cambridge for the day. Let’s take a moment for a show of virtual hands - who else goes elsewhere? I’m willing to bet most of you just shouted “absolutely” at your paper or screen.

Maybe you go for a particular brand, a market stall you love or a favourite spot for a weekend mooch. Whatever the reason, it’s not a crime, it’s variety! And that same logic works in reverse. Plenty of people don’t live here but do choose to come here, for all the same reasons we venture out.

In fact, I often hear visitors saying how lucky we are to have the high street we do. And when they add “compared to what we’ve got”, it’s clear we’re doing something right.

So, where does Bishop’s Stortford sit on the great scale of places to go? Well, if this were Goldilocks and the Three Bears, we’d be Baby Bear’s porridge. Not too big, not too small - just right. We’ve got a bit of everything: chains, indies, daytime delights and night-time nibbles, with a market that’s clinging on and (fingers crossed) bouncing back.

Chelmsford and Cambridge are the big hitters - city-sized with city-style choice, though often more chain-heavy.

Saffron Walden has charm in spades, a lovely indie scene and café culture, but lacks some high street staples and evening buzz.

Harlow offers fast fashion and big-box brands on industrial estates, but its town centre has a different vibe and fewer independent gems.

Welwyn Garden City? Ah yes, the mythical land of John Lewis - much desired, but it comes at the cost of variety and cohesion.

And then there’s us. Bishop’s Stortford: the Goldilocks town. We’ve got a bit of indie spirit, a dash of high street, a sprinkle of destination shopping and enough food and drink to suit a Saturday brunch or Friday night out.

So here’s the bottom line: it’s not an either/or choice. It’s okay to visit other places. And others are allowed to visit us. That’s the beauty of it - it all balances out in the end.

Let’s celebrate that, not hide it. Because whether you’re shopping here or there, the main thing is that you’re shopping local somewhere. And that, my friends, is what keeps our town - and every other - alive and thriving.