By Martin Brookes
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It has been four months of work and the wait is finally over. This week, the doors of the former HSBC bank on Oakham High Street swung open once more not for mortgage appointments or withdrawals, but for flat whites and artisan sourdough.
The transformation of one of our town’s oldest and most recognisable buildings into an Esquires Coffee franchise marks a significant chapter in the ongoing evolution of our town center.
Taking over a building with such deep historical roots is no small feat. The structure has stood as a sentinel on the High Street for generations, and its conversion required a delicate touch. The four-month refurbishment project wasn't just a simple "lick of paint." It involved extensive structural repairs and a meticulous interior overhaul to balance the modern requirements of a bustling coffee shop with the character of the original masonry.
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The result is a space that feels both grand and grounded. The high ceilings and architectural bones of the old bank provide a sense of scale that few modern coffee shops can replicate.
While Esquires is a well-known international name, the heartbeat of this new venture is local. The Canadian franchise is being spearheaded by a young family who have poured their energy into the project since the keys were handed over. Their presence adds a personal, independent feel to the global brand a combination that seems to be hitting the right note with Oakham residents.
If the first few days are any indication of the future, Oakham was thirsty for a new gathering spot. The 70-seater shop has been operating at near-capacity since opening.
It is heartening to see a building that could have easily sat vacant and decaying instead become a vibrant hub of activity. In an era where the "death of the high street" is a constant headline, this opening serves as a caffeinated reminder that with the right investment and a bit of family grit, our historic spaces can find a second act.
https://esquirescoffee.co.uk/store/esquires-oakham/
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