Jolly’s, Bath’s historic department store, will close on February 22, 2025, ending a 200-year legacy.
Bath: Jolly’s, the beloved department store, will close on Saturday, February 22. A shop attendant confirmed the date to SomersetLive. This store has been a part of Bath since 1823, making it one of Europe’s oldest department stores.
James Jolly started a linen drapery store in Deal, Kent, in the 1810s. By 1823, he opened a seasonal store in Bath for his son, Thomas. The shop did so well that it became permanent by 1830.
In 1970, E J Dingles and Co bought the business. Later, House of Fraser took over, and now it’s part of Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group. After a big renovation in 2014, the Jolly’s name returned, but now it’s closing soon.
There are big discounts throughout the store. Recently, SomersetLive found a £30 Nike fanny pack for £15 and Acqua di Parma perfume reduced from £126 to £90. Signs inside promise 20% off all stock.
Bath and North East Somerset Council owns the building. They said they’ve been working hard to secure the store’s future since House of Fraser went into administration in 2018. They want Jolly’s to be the anchor store for Milsom Street again.
The council is planning significant investments in the building. They were unaware of the current occupier’s intention to post closure notices. A joint statement about the store’s future will come soon.
Since the news broke, many have shared memories of Jolly’s. One person recalled their Aunty Betty working there. Another remembered meeting Priscilla Presley at the store. Some feel the store is outdated for modern shopping.
Others pointed out that while the store is iconic, it may be overpriced. Jolly’s will remain open seven days a week until its closure. Hours are 10 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 6 pm on Saturdays, and 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays.
