For people in London, BOXPARK needs little introduction. They now house three event hubs, made to resemble shipping container units, in the city (Croydon, Shoreditch, Wembley), and even have plans to expand to Manchester.
But, while their latest plan is another London venture, they’re stepping away from their container setup, and pirouetting towards a new sibling concept of music halls.
“BoxHall” is due to open in summer 2023 over at the old site of the historic Metropolitan Arcade, which first opened near Liverpool Street. This idea had first been announced for a space in Bristol, but this marks the concept’s first move to the capital.
BOXPARK has agreed a 15-year lease with TfL, who are the site’s freehold owners. Metropolitan Arcade has a pre-existing ground floor and mezzanine area that BoxHall are no doubt planning to kit out in style.
While its opening date just misses out on the World Cup action this winter (BOXPARK has gathered a reputation for its energetic atmosphere during sporting occasions), the feeling of summer is sure to more than make up for it. BoxHall is set to be an eye-watering 17,000 square-foot space, housing 16 kitchen units and two internal bars. The food on offer will follow the same idea, and high standards, that you’ve come to expect from the BOXPARK venues. Plus, there’s plenty of quality draught, tank and draught beers on hand to wash the grub down.
Roger Wade, Founder & CEO of BOXPARK comments on their London-first BoxHall site: “We are delighted to sign this new BoxHall site with TfL in the heart of the City, where BOXPARK was born 10 years ago.
“Our team have worked extremely hard to secure the Met Arcade – a fantastic, historical site built in the Victoria era, originally the entrance to Liverpool Street Station. We are excited to repurpose the building and make it home to a premium Food, Beer and Music Hall – BoxHall, whilst retaining its character and feel.”
Securing the Metropolitan not only douses the concept in cultural history, but also promises great accessibility, with the site being close to stations on the Underground, Overground and upcoming Elizabeth Line.
Nigel Pickup, Head of Commercial Property at Transport for London, said: “We are delighted that BOXPARK will shortly be introducing their plans for a BoxHall on our estate. Both BOXPARK and TfL work hard to support small and medium sized businesses, and this will provide a range of food and beverage options to the thousands of people who visit, work or pass through Liverpool Street every day.”
Visit the BOXPARK website here.
