Wildings Newport: From Iconic Department Store to Cannabis Farm

The Wildings department store in Newport, Wales, which closed permanently on January 19, 2019 after 144 years of trading, has been transformed into an illicit cannabis farm and left to deteriorate, reflecting broader challenges facing British high streets.

Once described as “the poshest shop in town,” Wildings was renowned for its elegant window displays, particularly at Christmas, and served as a community hub for school uniforms, fashion shows, and quality homeware. Former managing director Peter James recalled the store’s glory days, stating, “Department store retail was theatre and it was glamorous in those days. It was more about service than constant sales. Very traditional, otherworldly, atmospheric.”