Store 104, Rochester: Where Books, Coffee and Community Meet

Store 104 is deeply rooted in the history of Rochester High Street.
Overseen by the third generation of a family who have traded along this iconic stretch for more than 60 years, it’s a space shaped by both continuity and care.

Some might describe it as a bookshop; others would call it a concept store. What it most certainly is, is the natural love child of Frances Iles Art Gallery, which until Christmas Eve 2023 sat just across the road beside the Huguenot Almshouses. Long treasured by local artists and the wider Medway community, the gallery occupied the upper floors of Rutland House, with a gentle roster of exhibitions, while art supplies and picture framing services lived at street level. After more than 40 years of service at this location, the sisters behind Frances Iles chose to retire and close. But not before the next generation quietly stepped forward, carrying its spirit across the road and onto an exciting next chapter.

Like many buildings on the High Street, Store 104 is listed, and its frontage remains sympathetic to Rochester’s old-world character. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the entrance, offering a gentle preview of what lies inside. One window hints at children’s books, greeting cards and carefully curated gifts. The other tells a softer story of yarns, crochet hooks, balls of wool and haberdashery, with a beautiful shawl draped almost casually against the wall. What draws you in, though, is the stripped-back, almost museum-like quality. Original tiles dating back to the 1920s (from the building’s time as a local department store) still line the wall behind, proudly on display.

Step inside and the pace shifts to a gentle calm. The interior opens up in unexpected ways, revealing subtle changes in floor level and clearly defined zones. Stripped wooden floorboards creak softly underfoot, with large rugs and runners guiding the way. Tables and cabinets are filled with thoughtful objects, curated gifts, greeting cards and beautifully designed wrapping paper.

Towards the back, a small café hums quietly with low conversation. The smell of freshly steamed black coffee lingers in the air as regulars gather around small tables, nibbling on cake and toasties while catching up and talking through plans for the week. Back in the main space, artwork and prints line the walls, set against tall wooden bookshelves stacked with carefully chosen adult titles. A dedicated children’s corner offers room for parents to linger and read to little ones; chat with friends, and sip cups of tea and coffee without hurry.

Upstairs, the mood softens further. Drapery and haberdashery add colour and texture, while pop-up exhibitions curated by Frances Iles continue the gallery’s legacy, bringing new artwork into the building’s upper rooms each month.

Store 104 feels deeply human and unmistakably Rochester. With subtle nods to the 1930s throughout, it carries the comfort of a place that has always belonged here. It’s easy to see why it has become a quiet hub for the community, particularly for young families. This is the kind of place you wander into without a plan and leave feeling steady, restored, and ready for whatever comes next.