Work has officially started on the restoration of Jolly’s, one of Europe’s oldest and most cherished department stores, located on Milsom Street, Bath. This beloved landmark, a cornerstone of Bath’s shopping scene for over a century, is set to reopen in 2026 thanks to a collaborative effort between Bath & North East Somerset Council, contractor Bray & Slaughter, and department store chain Morleys.
After closing its doors in February 2024, Jolly’s was saved from permanent closure when Morleys took over the store’s future operations. The restoration project will begin with crucial external repairs, including roofing renewals, window restorations, and drainage improvements to make the building weather-tight and preserve its historic charm. These works are carried out by Bray & Slaughter, a local contractor with strong ties to the Bath community.
Once the exterior is secured, Morleys will lead an internal refurbishment aiming to create a vibrant new store that retains Jolly’s heritage while offering a fresh shopping experience. The re-opening is planned in two phases: an initial launch in March 2026 followed by a grand opening in October. A dedicated heritage space inside the store will celebrate Jolly’s rich history alongside Morleys’ vision for its future.
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Councillor Mark Elliott, Cabinet Member for Resources, emphasized the significance of this restoration: “Jolly’s is a vital council-owned asset, and we are investing heavily to preserve its historic fabric for future generations. Morleys is the perfect partner to deliver on this vision, ensuring Jolly’s continues to thrive at the heart of Bath’s Milsom Quarter.”
Grant Jefferies, Managing Director of Bray & Slaughter, expressed pride in the project: “Having grown up near Bath, working on Jolly’s is a great personal and professional honor. Our team is committed to preserving this iconic building’s legacy.”
Throughout the renovation, vinyl window graphics will showcase a visual timeline of Jolly’s storied past, from its origins in 1823 to the upcoming revival under Morleys. The timeline will also highlight Morleys’ own rich history dating back to 1927.
Allan Winstanley, Chief Executive of Morleys Department Stores, said, “We are immensely proud to restore Jolly’s and deliver a world-class shopping destination for Bath’s residents and visitors.”
The revitalization of Jolly’s is part of the broader Milsom Quarter Masterplan, which aims to transform the area into a lively hub for fashion and culture, anchored by the new Fashion Museum Bath. Morleys plans to offer a carefully curated selection of fashion, beauty, and homeware brands, including exclusive names never before available in Bath, as well as a comprehensive beauty service.
Founded in 1811, the Jolly’s brand has been a central part of Bath’s retail heritage since opening its first store there in 1823. Having been operated by House of Fraser from 1971 until its recent closure, the store’s revival marks a new chapter in its iconic history.