Iconic Bristol restaurant Glassboat is to reopen as an retail, bar and events space after being bought by artisan spirits brand 6 O’clock Gin.
The high-profile venue, pictured, next to Bristol Bridge was for more than 30 years run as a brasserie but has been vacant for just over a year after a short spell as a fish-and-chip restaurant and takeaway.
Thornbury-based 6 O’clock Gin said the converted Dutch barge will be ‘reimagined’ to give greater opportunity for locals and visitors to sample its gins and participate in immersive experiences.
These will include the chance to sample a selection of G&Ts and 6 O’clock Gin cocktails as well as buying bottles to take away. Events will include gin tastings, cocktail masterclasses and gin blending experiences.
6 O’clock Gin was launched by brother-and-sister team Michael and Felicity Kain after taking over their parents’ fruit farm, which made fruit liqueurs.
They perfected the family’s gin recipe, which had been created as a base for their sloe gin. 6 O’clock Gin, with its striking blue bottle – a tribute to Bristol’s heritage – is now a mainstay in the city’s burgeoning drinks scene.
6 O’clock Gin managing director Paul Sullivan said much like that iconic blue bottle, the 120ft-long Glassboat represented the perfect showcase for 6 O’clock Gin.
Its established status as a must-visit destination combined with the brand’s commitment to exceptional quality and craftsmanship will undoubtedly create a “unique and unforgettable experience” for all aboard,” he added.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have purchased the Glassboat. Our plan is to retain as many original features as possible while breathing new life into this historic site,” said.
“The re-launch of the Glassboat marks a significant milestone for us as we are able to bring our 6 O’clock Gin experiences right into the heart of the city.”
The venue is due to re-open later this summer.
