Saturday, December 16, 2023

Anglo Dutch Pools & Toys in Bethesda to close forever December 17, 2023


It's the end of an era for Anglo Dutch Pools & Toys at 5460 Westbard Avenue at the Westwood Shopping Center in Bethesda. After 38 years in operation, the family-owned business will permanently close as of tomorrow, Sunday, December 17, 2023. It is one of several small businesses in the shopping center that will not make the transition to the new Westbard Square development on the same property. While the store was originally to close November 30, landlord Regency Centers apparently had a change of heart and allowed Anglo Dutch to stay open longer during the critical holiday shopping season.

"We wanted to say our goodbyes, since our store will be shutting down as of December 17, 2023," owner Solie Darvish posted in a farewell message online. "At the same time, we want to thank all of our customers for your kindness and love you have shown us. Thank you and lots of hugs from the crew at Anglo Dutch." Independent toy stores are a rarity these days - as are toy stores, in general - so the closure is quite a loss. 

8 comments:

Bert868 said...

I remember when it was a Farrell’s when I lived in Woodacres.

Anonymous said...

!2:01 PM Yes indeed marching to the drumbeat on birthday occasions. . .

Anonymous said...

Won't be missed.

Anonymous said...

They are about to knock down the Shopping Center Block anyways…………

Anonymous said...

Rob, didn't you love Farrells, or was that Swensens. I seem to remember you raving about one of those places in high school.

Anonymous said...

This is heartbreaking to hear. I grew up racing down the aisles with my brother to pick out a toy as a reward for a good report card, etc. Very sad to see it go.

Anonymous said...

Me too!

Anonymous said...

This store was the best! For stickers and pool rafts a