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Anyone for tennis?

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WH Smith - End of an Era

Published on March 28th, 2025

We’ve lost Woolworths, Debenhams, British Home Stores and many more – now the news is that WH Smith stores have been sold and will be rebranded with a new name. Here’s a selection of images from The Francis Frith Collection showing this much-loved chain store that has been a feature of our high streets for so long in various towns and cities over the years. The end of an era!

Photo: Clevedon, Wh Smith & Son 1925.


Photo: Barmouth, Wh Smith & Son, High Street c.1965.


Photo: Pangbourne, The Village 1910.


Photo: Sale, School Road 1961.


Photo: Barnet, High Street c.1965.


Photo: Leominster, High Street c.1960.


Photo: Mill Hill, The Broadway c.1969.


Photo: Stafford, Greengate Street c.1960.


Photo: Droitwich Spa, Ombersley Street And Raven Hotel c.1960.


Photo: Ludlow, Bull Ring 1910.


Photo: Faringdon, London Street c.1960.


Photo: Eastbourne, Terminus Road 1925.


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