Commissioned by
Chelmsford For You

Bond Street Turns 10

Celebrating 10 Years Of Bond Street

From coffee and conversation to afternoons by the river, there’s a story in the everyday moments at Bond Street. To mark our tenth anniversary, local poet Rebecca Carter celebrates the places and people who make it special.

Along the way: Where it began · 2016

From humble beginnings,To noble feats,Can you believe it’s been10 years of Chelmsford’s Bond Street?

Along the way: The coffee bike · Tiptree Tea Room

Inviting you to munch or to moochWhatever you need,We’ve got options to suit.You get to choose;Will it be Coffee freshly brewed from the famous bike?Complete with a morale boost and a smile,Or the simple staples,This morning's in-house baked Scones,dressed in a dollop of Jam, packed full of fruit.In that case, Tiptree Tearooms is the place for you.Jars bursting with Flavour,Alongside a reminder,‘That these are moments to savour!’

Along the way: Everyman · The Bowl and the river

Soak up that ‘Bond Street’ feeling,Right here at home,where Everyman gets to,Sit back and relax on a cinematic throne.When the time feels right,re-emerge into nature,Nestled beside the bowl,Race down the ramp intoSpace for family, friendsand swans alike, to grow.

Along the way: ASK Italian

Moments with those who matter most at the heart,Whether you wish to shop, eat or playIf you need help, just Ask,Comfort food done well,The perfect chance to bask inPockets of local pride, popping up within the prestigious.Tradition blended with modern visions.

Along the way: John Lewis · Bill’s, by the water

With something for everyone at the epicentre of John Lewis,Generations come together from the oldest to the newest.Come on,It’s more than just nice.Where else can you eat Unlimited pancakes right next to the waterside?

Along the way: Hotel Chocolat

With an array of entertainment,Feasts for the eyes,It’s only right to find yourself mesmerised,Share with a friend, or a once begrudged husband,Tired of traipsing but cannot resist,The temptation of the tempered crunch,Hotel Chocolat insists.

Along the way: The shops

It’s the little things,The nostalgic, Welcoming scents,Which lend themselves to a personalised experience.One of which you will not forget.There is more on offer than premium labelsAnd quality guarantees,Bond Street is its own thriving community.

Along the way: Behind every window

With friendly faces behind every window,Find yourself greeted by staff that know,The joy of which their products bring,The perfect present – oh and one for you!Go on then, it would be rude not to!A treasure trove of treats, designed to delight,To indulge, to go slow, to know,That paired with a nod to old ways,Bond Street generatesMuch needed forward momentum,

Along the way: Take a seat

Change always unfolds,But the feeling remains,Moments worth capturing,Seated amongst a flowery frame.

By Rebecca Carter

Rebecca Carter

About the poet

Rebecca Carter is a poet and painter who has lived, worked and studied in Chelmsford all her life. In 2024 Chelmsford City Council chose her to write the poem for its film about the city, and her Concrete Canvas mural for Chelmsford For You stands at Waterloo Road Car Park. She writes, performs and takes commissions as In Tune with Rebecca.

Commissioned by Chelmsford For You for Bond Street’s tenth anniversary.

© Rebecca Carter 2026. Published with the poet’s permission.

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Plan your visit
Bond Street Turns 10, Saturday 26 September