10 loved and lost Nottingham shops that we’d love to see return in 2026
You’re bound to remember visiting a few of these shops
Nottingham, like all major UK cities, has changed considerably since the turn of the century.
Changing consumer habits, particularly the rise of online shopping, has resulted in hundreds of shops disappearing from the city centre in recent years.
In a pre-internet world, many locals would spend hours every Saturday wandering around Clumber Street and Lister Gate before popping into Bird’s Bakery for a bite to eat.
The switch to online shopping has increased even more since the pandemic, but Nottingham is by no means the only city to be struggling to recapture its pre-Covid footfall.
Those of a certain age will have fond memories of iconic Nottingham shops of yesteryear.
We recently asked readers which much-loved Nottingham shops from down the years need to make a comeback in 2026.
It’s fair to say that this question really got readers thinking, with dozens of suggestions coming in.
Some are independent shops, while others are former chain favourites.
Below are 10 shops that Nottingham World readers want brought back the most.
1. Pearsons Department Store
Long Row
Closed in 1987
2. BHS
Broadmarsh Centre
Closed in 2016
3. Virgin Megastore
Wheeler Gate
Closed in 2009
4. Debenhams
Long Row
Closed in 2021
5. C&A
Lister Gate
Closed in 2001
6. Allders Department Store
Broadmarsh Centre
Closed in 2005
7. Woolworths
Victoria Centre
Closed in 2008
8. Selectadisc
Market Street
Closed in 2009
9. Limeys
Bridlesmith Gate
Closed in 2007
10. Arcade Records
Chapel Bar
Closed in 2000