‘End of a magical era’: Much-loved Skegness toy shop to close after 105 years of making children’s Christmas dreams come true
For more than a century, it has been Skegness’ very own Aladdin’s cave — a place where excited noses pressed against Christmas windows, where teddy bears and tin toys waited to be loved, and where children’s dreams came true year after year.
But now, after 105 glittering years at the heart of the town, the much-loved family toy shop on Lumley Road is preparing to close its doors for the final time.
The emotional announcement came from owner Anne Roberjot-Roberts, granddaughter of founder Roland Lowndes, who shared the heartbreaking news with customers on social media.
“It’s a happy and sad day,” she said through tears after 29 years at the helm. “This month will be our final month trading in Skegness. I want to thank all my customers, friends and family who have been so good to me. But now we have to close our doors and say goodbye to Skegness.”
The shop’s remarkable journey began in 1920, when war hero Roland Lowndes arrived in Skegness and bought 55 Lumley Road. His path to the coast was far from ordinary.
On Christmas Day 1901, while serving with the 34th Imperial Yeomanry, Roland was attacked by De Wet and 1,500 Boers. He was shot in both thighs, stripped of his clothes and belongings, and left for dead. Against all odds, he survived — the only member of his regiment to do so — and was eventually discharged with medals for gallantry.
Roland went on to travel for Haig’s Whiskey and work as a fire assessor before finding his new beginning in Skegness, laying the foundations for a family business that would become a treasured part of local history.
By the time the shop celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020, it had become far more than a retailer. Under Anne’s care, it has grown into a place brimming with wonder and community — especially at Christmas.
The announcement has sparked an outpouring of memories, many recalling Christmas times spent gazing at the famous window displays — a tradition for generations in the town.
“We are unique,” Anne said. “It’s something of the past, but people like that. The amount of people who come in and say, ‘I remember pressing my nose to the window when I was little ro see the toys.
“I’ve been crying my eyes out since making the announcement — the comments have been overwhelming.”
One highlight was the 100 acts of kindness for the store’s 100th anniverary. Staff held charity events, proudly raising money for causes across Skegness — another thread woven into its lasting legacy.
Among those paying tribute is Tracy Turner, vice-chairman of the Skegness Royal British Legion.
“After 105 years, Lowndes — the oldest store in Skegness — is set to close its doors for the final time,” she said. “For generations it has been more than just a shop. It’s part of our history. The original door even has a pane cracked during a World War II bombing. Inside, everything still echoes a bygone era.
“With Drapers also now gone, the town’s retail landscape has lost two of its greatest pillars. It’s a poignant reminder of how times change.”
As the countdown begins, customers aren’t just popping in for closing-down bargains. They are coming to say goodbye — and thank you for childhoods shaped, for kindness shown, for memories gift-wrapped over more than a century.
And while soon the shutters will rest for the last time, the legacy of the Lowndes family — and the charming little toy shop that enchanted Skegness for 105 Christmases — will continue to sparkle in the town’s collective heart.