One of Britain’s most iconic department stores is set to make a triumphant return, breathing new life into Bath’s shopping scene. Jolly’s, which closed its doors just last month after two centuries of trade, is being revived by Morleys Stores in what promises to be a major boost for the city’s retail landscape.
Morleys, known for operating eight department stores across the UK, has big plans for Jolly’s. The company is not only keeping the beloved name but also pledging to restore its historic charm while modernising the shopping experience with a fresh mix of fashion, beauty, homeware, and more. The goal? To make Jolly’s the crown jewel of Milsom Street, drawing in both loyal locals and curious visitors.
Work on the building is already underway, with the store set to reopen in two phases. The first phase is expected to launch in March 2026, with the grand reopening scheduled for October 2026—just in time for the Christmas shopping rush.
Allan Winstanley, chief executive of Morleys Stores, expressed his excitement about the project, saying, “We are thrilled to be bringing Jolly’s back to life and to be part of the vibrant retail landscape in Bath. Our approach is to treat each of our stores as a unique independent department store, ensuring we create an exceptional shopping experience tailored to the local community. We are especially pleased to confirm that we will be keeping the Jolly’s name, honouring its deep-rooted legacy in the city.”
The revival of Jolly’s has also been met with enthusiasm by Bath & Northeast Somerset Council, which owns the building. Council leader Clr Kevin Guy welcomed Morleys’ investment, calling it a fantastic addition to the city. “Morleys Stores will bring an exciting shopping experience to residents and visitors alike, and I am delighted to welcome the business to our vibrant city. Milsom Street has always been a very special shopping destination, and Morleys’ decision complements the investment the council is making in the Milsom Quarter,” he said.
In addition to its restoration efforts, Morleys plans to introduce exclusive brands to Bath, along with a premium beauty department and a carefully curated food and beverage selection. The investment is set to transform Jolly’s into a must-visit retail destination, blending its rich heritage with contemporary shopping trends.
Former Jolly’s store manager Jess Merritt-John has been brought back on board to oversee a dedicated heritage space within the store during the renovation. This space will celebrate Jolly’s history, keep shoppers updated on the refurbishment progress, and introduce Morleys’ vision to Bath’s residents and visitors.
Councillor Mark Elliott, cabinet member for resources, highlighted the importance of this investment for the city’s economy, stating, “We set out the council’s commitment to the local economy in our ten-year economic strategy, and this investment is a very positive recognition of the great retail offer our city has and the work the council has undertaken to support it.”
Morleys Stores has been making major investments in its estate, including a £3 million refurbishment of Morleys in Brixton in 2022 and another £3 million planned for Pearsons in Enfield in 2025. The company continues to explore further opportunities to expand its portfolio, strategically growing its presence across the UK.
With its rich history and a new lease on life, Jolly’s is set to reclaim its spot as Bath’s go-to shopping destination, proving that some classics never go out of style.
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