Bristol Business of the Week is The Library Wine Bar

Bristol Business of the Week is The Library Wine Bar

Posted on: 22 Dec 2014

Our last Bristol Business of the Week feature in 2014 goes to The Library, a wine bar recently opened on Cheltenham Road in Bristol by sisters Louise and Sarah Hawkins.

 

There are lots of great new bars and restaurants popping up around The Arches and each has its own niche as the area starts to reincarnate itself as a nightlife venue in Bristol. 365Bristol spoke to Sarah to find out a bit more about The Library and what they have to offer.


When did you set up The Library? 


The library opened it's doors in August 2014.

 

Are you from Bristol?

 

We both grew up in Cheltenham but have lived and worked in Bristol for the last 4 years. 

 

How's business?

 

Business is going well. Like any new venture there are massive highs and lows but it's been a great personal challenge for both of us and we both have lots of ideas for 2015!

 

Tell us about your business? What makes you stand out from the crowd?

 

Our inspiration has come from wine bars at home and on the continent, where families of all ages come together around wine barrels to drink wine and socialise. We offer a wide selection of wines by the glass, carafe and bottle and take great pleasure in helping customers find their perfect glass! 

 

How do you find running an independent business in Bristol?

 

Running an independent business has it challenges - like the lack of funding. But the reward and feeling of pride over what you have achieved is unbeatable.

 

Where do you like to eat out in Bristol when you have free time away from The Library?

 

We haven't had nearly enough time to properly explore Cheltenham and Gloucester Road yet - but some firm favourites in Bristol include Bravas and the recently opened Flour and Ash opposite us.

 

What's your favourite place in Bristol?

 

Ashton Court. There is something wonderful about Bristol that allows to feel like you are in the heart of the city and then 5 minutes later you are out in open countryside.

 

Where do you see The Library in 5 years time?

 

We would like to develop the wine tasting events side of the business as we feel that's a growing market - increasingly people want to learn about wines and know what they are drinking.

 

What advice would you give to any aspiring Bristol small business owners?

 

Don't give up, especially when people doubt you. We had a lot of that especially because of our age. You only live once and far better to give it a go - at worst it will be a funny story to tell your grandchildren.

 

If you were Mayor of Bristol for a day which one thing would you change?

 

If we were the mayor of Bristol for the day we would permeability turn park street into a water slide!

 

Contact The Library at:

208 Cheltenham Road, Bristol, BS6 5QU

Tel. 0117 2396585

Web. www.thelibrarybarbristol.co.uk

Email. info@thelibrarybarbristol.co.uk

Or connect on Facebook and Twitter

The Library - 208 Cheltenham Road - Bristol - BS6 5QU


Article by:

James Anderson

Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.