A cornerstone of Bridport’s retail scene is ready to shut its doorways after greater than 4 a long time of serving the area people. Lilliput’s Textiles and Home Store, positioned at 58 West Street, has introduced it will likely be closing on the finish of March as proprietor Lillie Foster prepares for retirement. The impartial retailer, identified for its wide selection of homeware and materials, has been a fixture within the city because it first opened in 1984.
The retailer initially started operations at St Michaels Trading Estate earlier than relocating to its present West Street premises in 2005. Over the years, Lilliput’s developed a popularity for each retail and wholesale, with inventory reaching prospects as far afield because the Falkland Islands.
As reported by Bridport & Lyme Regis News, Ms Foster stated: “In the early days we had a lorry come to load up and it was taken on a ship to the Falkland Islands because we used to do wholesale. It went all over the world.”
The property formally went in the marketplace in August 2025, with a “for sale” signal posted on the historic West Street constructing. The store spans over 500,000 sq. ft.
Ms Foster expressed her gratitude to the neighborhood for his or her loyalty through the years.
She stated: “We have made many friends, and we have been appreciative of all our customers’ support over the last 40 years.
“The staff that have been there, many for over 20 years, they are obviously sad to be going. We thank all the staff and all our customers.”
The Grade II listed constructing has now been offered and can be taken over by Weldmar Hospicecare. The Dorset-based charity gives specialist end-of-life look after adults with a life-limiting sickness and help for his or her family members.
Ms Foster added: “We are delighted that we are handing it over to such a well-loved charity. We are glad to be passing it on to them.”
Shoppers are being invited to browse the remaining inventory earlier than the closure, together with upholstery gadgets, kitchenware, and different dwelling necessities, with particular reductions supplied within the retailer’s last weeks.
Among the city’s different historic companies is RJ Balson and Son, a family-run butcher established in 1515, and Snooks the Hatters, based in 1896, which claims to inventory Europe’s largest assortment of Panama hats.
The city additionally options a wide range of vintage, classic, and artwork shops, reminiscent of Sladers Yard Gallery and Artwave West Gallery.
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2182025/iconic-department-store-uk-town