This April, we’re celebrating 30 years of St. George’s Shopping Centre – and what a journey it’s been!
Since opening our doors in 1996, we’ve been part of everyday life in Harrow. From quick lunch breaks and weekend shopping trips to first jobs and family days out, so many moments have happened right here.
So, we thought it was the perfect time to take a little trip down memory lane…
Back to the Beginning
We first opened our doors on 23rd April 1996, right in the heart of Harrow – a pretty iconic moment on a very exciting day. Some things haven’t changed… McDonald’s and Boots were there on day one, and are still here today!
Recognise This?
There’s one feature we’re pretty sure you’ll recognise straight away… Our iconic spiral ramp into the car park. For 30 years, it’s been the start of so many visits – the moment you know you’ve arrived at St. George’s. Whether it’s the excitement of a shopping trip, meeting friends, or a family day out, it all begins there.
More Than Meets the Eye
You might not know this, but hidden in plain sight is some art that’s been here since the very beginning. A series of panels, installed when we opened in 1996, tells a modern reimagining of the legend of St. George and the Dragon. Next time you visit, see if you can spot them!
Back to 1996
Back in 1996, things looked a little different…
- A pint of milk would set you back around 35p
- You might have been queuing at the cinema for Trainspotting, Toy Story, Se7en or Jumanji
- Britpop was everywhere, with bands like Oasis and Blur dominating the charts
- England hosted UEFA Euro 1996, with ‘Football’s Coming Home’ becoming the anthem of the summer
- And if you were heading out for the day, chances are you had a disposable camera in your pocket!
Take a Look Back
We’ve dug out some brilliant throwback photos from when we were first built and opened. From construction to those early days, you can explore our photo gallery here and see just how much has changed (and what’s stayed the same).
And today, 30 years on, we’re still right here in the heart of Harrow.
We’ve grown, changed, and welcomed new faces along the way – but at our core, we’re still a place for the community. Whether you’re popping in for a quick visit, meeting friends, or bringing the family along for a day out, St. George’s continues to be part of your everyday moments.
Want to celebrate with us? We have activities every weekend of April for FREE, for YOU. Find out more here.
We’d also love to hear your memories of St. George’s Shopping Centre over the years. Whether it’s old photos, favourite moments, or stories from your visits, send them our way!
Message us on Facebook, Instagram or send an email to email info@stgeorgesshopping.co.uk with your memories – you might even be featured as part of our 30th celebrations.
