Smith Street in Warwick reopened to families and visitors today as the town's much‑loved street party returned, bringing a market atmosphere, live music and new businesses to the town centre.
Market, music and a new clinic
The event kicked off at 11am, with the street lined with stalls selling everything from handcrafted jewellery and confectionery to skincare and pet products. Among the openings was the Aesthetics Lounge, a new beauty and aesthetics clinic taking over and renovating premises formerly occupied by Mayfield. Mayfield has moved a few doors along the street.
The day's entertainment included a line‑up of live performers and dancers parading through Market Place, adding to the festival feel coinciding with the 46th Warwick Folk Festival taking place elsewhere in the town this weekend.
Local businesses and changes on the high street
Organisers said the party aims to showcase neighbourhood traders and give residents a chance to discover local products and artists. The event this year also highlighted changes on the high street: Bread & Co, which hosted this year's party, has announced it will close in September after 17 years serving the town.
“Don't miss your chance to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, support your neighbourhood businesses, and discover new favourite products and artists.”
Transport and access: temporary road closures
Visitors were asked to plan ahead because several short‑term road closures were in effect around Smith Street to ensure public safety and make room for stalls and performers.
- Smith Street
- Gerrard Street
- Chapel Street (junction with Chapel Row & Smith Street)
- Cross Street (junction with Priory Road & Smith Street)
| Location | Reason |
|---|---|
| Smith Street | Market stalls and live entertainment |
| Gerrard Street | Event access management |
| Chapel Street (junction) | Pedestrian safety for parade route |
| Cross Street (junction) | Event logistics |
The council encouraged residents to support the event and local traders while enjoying the entertainment. For many small businesses and stallholders, such gatherings are important opportunities to reach customers and build a profile in the town centre.
The Smith Street party runs alongside the larger Warwick Folk Festival, which continues through Sunday, providing a busy cultural weekend for the town and drawing visitors from across Warwickshire.
