M&S has always been a cornerstone in Bath, and the recent opening of its impressive four-storey flagship store in SouthGate only reinforced its popularity. On February 4th, hundreds of eager shoppers lined the streets, excited to explore the fresh new space.
Fans captured moments with iconic mascots like Percy Pig and Colin the Caterpillar, while many were disappointed to miss out on one of the 500 limited-edition M&S tote bags. Somerset Live even spoke to visitors traveling from Wells and Winchester, all drawn by the buzz surrounding the store’s grand launch. The previous nearby M&S store had closed just one day prior, making the reopening a much-celebrated event.
At the top of this retail marvel, the new 140-seat café on the third floor welcomed early customers at 9am. The queues were long and steady, reflecting high demand for this upgraded dining experience.
Reflecting on the old M&S café nearby, it was a functional but uninspiring spot, reminiscent of a school canteen for adults. The coffee was decent but lacked excitement. However, the new café has dramatically raised the bar.
The revamped menu offers a tempting array of sweet treats including cakes, scones, and doughnuts alongside cold and hot dishes, plus an extensive drink selection. The multiple serving queues hint at the café’s high expectations — a far cry from the single line at the former location.
For breakfast, I chose a handcrafted bacon and cheese turnover (£3.50), a pot of salted caramel overnight oats (£3.30), and the innovative popcorn latte made with single-origin Sumatran coffee beans (£4.20). Without the deal, this would have cost £11, but thanks to the pastry and drink offer, my total came to just £7.30—excellent value for such quality fare.
The bacon and cheese turnover was a standout: perfectly gooey and far less greasy than similar options elsewhere in Bath. The overnight oats, a trendy breakfast choice, didn’t quite win me over; they felt a bit like a dense, stodgy porridge. The popcorn latte, however, was a delightful treat — topped with whipped cream and sparkling toffee sprinkles, it felt like a dessert in a cup.
Alongside me sat a 91-year-old M&S enthusiast who recalled being present at the opening of the previous Bath branch and was just as excited for the new one. We both agreed that, while the old café was adequate, this new venue is truly a cut above.
The new M&S store in SouthGate operates daily, opening from 8am to 9pm on weekdays, slightly reduced hours on weekends, and the coffee shop is open from 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, with shorter Sunday hours.