Iconic Scots store that’s ‘world’s oldest magic shop’ closed after 140 years

AN ICONIC Scots trick store believed to be ‘the world’s oldest magic shop’ has closed its doors after nearly 140 years of business.

The store announced their closure early on Monday morning after closing down over the weekend.

Tam Shepherds Trick Shop, in Glasgow, has closed its shop for good, after more than a century of serving Scots magic lovers and Halloween revellers.

The store on Queen Street has been forced to cease trading as it will be re-purposed as part of a new development for retail space.

Fancy dress lovers have been left devastated by the news, which was revealed through Tam Shepherds’ Facebook page.

In a statement to customers, they said: “We are sad to announce that Saturday 9^th November 2024 was the last day of trading from our long established bricks and mortar shop in Queen Street.

“The building that we are part of is to be redeveloped.

“The new development includes retail space, and we have the opportunity to re-open in what we hope will be a revitalised, small-business friendly, city centre.

“However, the uncertainty over the redevelopment, together with high costs of being a small independent shop in the city centre in the current climate, is not sustainable for us.

“Tam Shepherds will continue our online shop, tamshepherds.com supplying customers with our range of magic tricks, jokes, and costumes.

“To all our customers and friends, thank you so much for your continued custom and support.

“We hope to welcome you back in the future. And thank you to Glasgow for making Tam Shepherds the shop it has been.”

One heartbroken fan wrote: “Sad to see a Glasgow icon shutting physical doors. I no longer live there, but enjoyed visits and always came to the store.”

A second added: “That’s a terrible, terrible shame.”

A third said: “That’s sad to hear, it was so unique and a Glasgow institution. The window displays were eye popping and staff very helpful….”

While a fourth added: “So sorry to hear this – my dad taking me to visit your shop, during long and boring family shopping trips, was always a cherished highlight of my childhood.

Established in 1886, the store on Queen Street has stood on the same plot throughout their existence.

Famous for their practical joke boxes, tricks, and in-house magic, the business will continue to operate online as they look for a more permanent home.

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