This study delves into the evolution of high streets’ vitality during different periods – pre, during, and post the COVID-19 pandemic – by analysing hourly footfall patterns on high streets. While prior research primarily focused on weekly or monthly footfall changes, this investigation employs time series clustering to categorise high streets based on granular temporal patterns. Through extensive analysis, the study reveals the diverse functionalities of high streets and illustrates the immediate and enduring impacts of lockdown measures on high street dynamics and human behaviours. The study highlights the importance of finer-scale dynamics and contributes insights crucial for future development planning.a