Milsom Street in Bath is abuzz with activity as the city’s most iconic shop, Jolly’s department store, undergoes an extensive restoration. Scaffolding stretches across nearly a third of the street, signaling major works to revive this historic 200-year-old landmark. Closed earlier this year by House of Fraser, Jolly’s is set to be revitalized under new management by Morleys Department Stores, who aim to return the store to its former grandeur.
The restoration project began in June, focusing first on repairing the building’s distinguished Georgian façade. In the process, contractors have uncovered fascinating hidden features: a stained glass window concealed for years, a stockroom that once served as a morgue, and a century-old safe that remains unopened due to the absence of a key.
Staff and workers have been sharing updates and intriguing discoveries on the store’s newly launched social media channels, offering the public a glimpse into the transformation. Morleys plans an initial reopening in March 2026, followed by a grand launch in October 2026.
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Mark Elliott, Bath and North East Somerset Council’s cabinet member for resources, emphasized the significance of the project: “Jolly’s store is a prized council-owned asset. We are investing heavily to restore the building so it continues to serve Bath’s residents and visitors for generations to come. Preserving the historic fabric of this flagship site in the heart of the Milsom Quarter is a priority.”
Grant Jefferies, managing director of Bray & Slaughter—the contractors handling the restoration—shared a personal connection: “Having grown up near Bath, Jolly’s has been a familiar landmark through my life. It is an honor to apply our craftsmanship to secure a vibrant future for this historic site.”
Jolly’s roots date back to 1811 when James Jolly founded his drapery store in Kent, opening his first Bath location in 1823. The store has since become a cultural and retail icon in the city. Ownership passed to House of Fraser in 1971, but the sudden closure earlier in 2024 shocked many loyal customers.
House of Fraser ceased operations in February, yet the council had already been working behind the scenes for over a year to secure a buyer. Morleys, established in 1927 and operating seven other department stores including the flagship Elys in Wimbledon, stepped in to take over the Bath store.
Allan Winstanley, Morleys’ chief executive, expressed excitement about the project: “We are delighted to revive Jolly’s and strengthen Bath’s retail scene. Our approach treats each store as a unique independent department store, delivering a tailored, exceptional shopping experience for the local community.”
With restoration well underway, Bath residents and visitors alike eagerly await the reopening of a beloved historic retailer poised to shine once again in the city’s commercial heart.