It’s been four years since we discovered the award-winning dining, retail and leisure operator, BOXPARK, would be branching out of the capital and launching its sibling concept in Bristol, BOXHALL. Since then, the world has been turned upside down more times than we can count with two hands.
The massive new food hall on Bristol’s Harbourside, taking over the O&M sheds on Welsh Back, was due to open in 2022. But hit numerous stumbling blocks, as it was delayed until 2023 and, after contractors went bust, then to 2024. But while work was finally completed late last year, it’s unlikely we’ll see BoxHall opening this half of the year.
Now “set to open in 2025”, there are two other BoxHall concepts around the UK that have taken priority first. BOXHALL City is due to open near London’s Liverpool Street by Spring 2025, making it the first BOXHALL to open. Meanwhile, the company’s leisure-themed concept, PLAYBOX is opening at BOXPARK Croydon in February.
The good news is that the 20,000 sq ft venue overlooking Bristol’s Harbourside is still coming – and it shouldn’t be too long, as BOXHALL Bristol is almost ready to go. And with Bristol’s very own Josh Eggleton (the man behind Salt & Malt, The Kensington Arms, Root and more) working as its Food Ambassador, he’s ensuring the very best of the Bristol food scene is being celebrated.
What will BOXHALL Bristol be like?
Described as a food hall, beer hall and music hall all rolled into one, BOXHALL Bristol promises to be “a vibrant and exciting waterside destination, delivering a premium, unique food and beverage offer not experienced elsewhere in the city.” The historic dockside sheds will be transformed to include restaurants and bars, with a roster of acclaimed Bristol people and produce.
In addition to the tasty food offerings, BOXHALL will host an events programme showcasing the best of Bristol’s music scene throughout the week. Plus, a mixture of other events including local art shows, live screenings and gaming experiences. Providing a little something for everyone.
Bristol’s O&M Sheds are one of the last remaining undeveloped buildings from the city’s historical industrial dockyard and the developers hope the food hall interior to “capture the essence” of its historical value. The venue will also feature a community hub plus terraces with outdoor seating which overlook the Floating Harbour so guests can take in waterside views towards Bristol Bridge.
Keep up to date with BOXHALL Bristol here.