5 high street shops you miss seeing in Ipswich at Christmas

High street retailers used to line the streets of Ipswich but changes over the years have seen many disappear. 

Here are five shops you miss seeing on Ipswich high street during the festive season.

1. Woolworths

Woolworths could be found on Carr Street (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)Closed: 2008

Previously located on Carr Street, Woolworths took the top spot of most missed by our readers. 

In 1985 signs proclaimed "Woolworths is Christmas" and the retail chain sold a wide range of Christmas decorations and presents for all to enjoy. 

2. Debenhams

Debenhams closed in Ipswich on May 4 (Image: Newsquest)Closed: 2021

The Debenhams in Ipswich was the first in the area to be shut after moving to Westgate Street in 1842. 

At Christmas, the store sold a range of festive-themed gifts as well as Christmas jumpers and fashion for New Year's Eve parties. 

Read More: Signs for new Shoezone store appear in Ipswich town centre

3. BHS

BHS was in Ipswich's Butter Market (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)Closed: 2016

British Home Stores, commonly known as BHS, was a British department store selling clothing and household items. 

During the festive season the shop windows would display Christmas goodies you could buy.

4. Wilko

Wilko closed in October of this year (Image: Newsquest)Closed: 2023

This year will be the first Christmas without Wilko after the store in Upper Brook Street closed in October. 

The chain sold a large range of Christmas decorations including trees and lights, as well as Nutcracker statues and festive tea light holders.

Read More: All the free parking in East Suffolk this festive season

5. Toys R Us

Toys R Us could be found at the Copdock roundabout (Image: Lucy Taylor)Closed: 2018

Although it wasn't found on the high streets of Ipswich, Toys R Us was hard to miss for those driving into the town. 

The store was a dream for children at Christmas, stocking all the must haves from Barbie to Lego.