St Luke’s opens Plymouth’s largest charity shop at Charles Cross

24th November 2025

The city’s biggest charity shop is open!

St Luke’s has opened the doors to its brand-new flagship store at Charles Cross – claiming the title of Plymouth’s biggest charity shop.

We have relocated our flagship furniture store from the former Toys ‘R’ Us building at Western Approach to a prime city-centre location, just yards away from shopping hub Drake Circus.

There to cut the ribbon were members of our Urgent Care Team, who are committed to providing our compassionate end-of-life care and bespoke support to people at home.

Run by a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, the new store is part of St Luke’s portfolio of charity shops across the areas where we provide our specialist services. Sales profit from this store alone is expected to provide the equivalent of hospice care at home for 300 patients and their families.

While the majority of the shop will be selling good quality second-hand furniture, customers will be able to pick-up pre-loved clothing and bric-a-brac as well, just in time for some Christmas shopping. An added bonus for shoppers is the 15 minutes of free parking right outside the front door, perfect for supporters dropping off donations or loading goods into their cars.

The new store also houses the hub of St Luke’s successful eBay operation. Behind the scenes, the team works hard to identify and list rare or unique items donated to us, ensuring every special find makes a big impact.

Managing the new Charles Cross store will be Steve Evans, who previously ran our Transit Way store. Joining him will be three full-time members of staff and a group of hard-working volunteers.

Mike Picken, Head of Retail at St Luke’s, said: “Our annual retail income is a critical contribution to keep St Luke’s caring. Not only is our new Charles Cross location in a prime position for shoppers visiting the city centre, but the premises itself is more energy efficient than our previous flagship store and provides a better customer shopping experience overall.

“It’s exciting to be welcoming customers to our new shop at Charles Cross. Crucially, each item they donate or buy will help ensure that no one in our local area faces the end of their life alone or without support.”

The Charles Cross store will be open 7 days a week. Monday to Saturday from 9am – 4.30pm and from 10am – 4pm on Sundays.

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