Historic North East Store Closes After 104 Years, Launches 20% Off Sale
After more than a century of service, the iconic House of Fraser store in Darlington has announced its closure. The store, a fixture in the community since August 1922, is currently offering a 20% off closing down sale.
Historic Closure Announcement
The closure announcement was made on Friday, January 30, 2026, following discussions with employees earlier that week. Prominent “closing down” signs are now featured in the storied High Row location. In addition to the clearance sale, exclusions apply on certain merchandise.
Previous Closure and Future Developments
This is not the first time House of Fraser has indicated plans to close the Darlington branch; a similar announcement was made for 2024. The recent decision comes amid proposals to convert the nearby former Binns outlet into six separate retail units. The building’s owner aims to keep options open for the future while collaborating with House of Fraser.
- Original opening date: August 1922
- High Row location: featured since 1925
- Last contract extension: one-year agreement in March 2025
- Store closure notices displayed: January 30, 2026
Community Reaction and Support
The decision to close has elicited disappointment from local officials. A spokesperson for Darlington Borough Council stated that the store has been a central part of the town for decades. They assured the community that relevant support measures would be explored as more details about the closure emerge.
As Darlington bids farewell to this historic retail giant, shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of the ongoing sale while they can. House of Fraser’s legacy in the region has shaped the local retail landscape for over 100 years.
