Posted: April 23.
It all started with the old Red Lion pub, the catalyst and inspiration for so many ideas for this incredible space, some crazier than others but all we hope will add colour and smiles to our Forge & Fern. Here’s a round-up of what’s happening at 76 Broad Street.
Once the pub had been purchased and we had the opportunity to work alongside the property development team, we then had to plan and design exactly what we wanted the space to be. We knew we would keep the existing space operating with a restaurant setup but there were other ways that we could maximise the area.
After discussions with the architects it was decided that there would be an extension of the commercial area, creating over 3000 square foot of floor space meaning that there’ll be service for over 200 covers, with a top of the range open kitchen being installed too! There will also be a new and improved all-weather family friendly garden and an undercover alfresco terrace for dining and drinks. All of this will have full wheelchair access throughout. Everyone is welcome!
On our mission to support a greener environment in Bristol and South Gloucestershire, we are making the pub cyclist friendly with plenty of secure storage to put your bikes for when you come off the Bristol & Bath railway path for a well-earned refreshment! Not only that but as part of the expansion of the building we are having a huge living wall installed outside above the terrace which will bring with it its own eco-system, promoting biodiversity in the city.
We have bees on the roof too! Not only to provide garden and community pollination – especially convenient being a stone’s throw away from Page Park – but also to harvest our own honey which we use in the restaurant and in some very special cocktails. We also have a roof-top herb garden, where our kitchen team are able to grab the freshest homegrown produce and add them to delectable dishes, just for you! This will also be the spot where we will grow botanicals for our growing gin offering.
We worked with Somerset Distillery to create two delicious gins, The Forge & The Fern
Our love of the outdoors plays a large part in the new name for the pub – The Forge & Fern.
The building was an old blacksmith’s many many years ago and we thought it was integral to keep this part of history rooted in the building as it transforms once again into its new state. This is the Forge. The Fern comes from the living wall, the flora & fauna onsite and in the beautiful neighbouring Page Park, the honey, and the local and responsibly sourced produce. We are rooted in the community with plans to grow alongside you all.
The Forge & Fern is a Café Bar & Restaurant serving specialist coffee, quality food & a curated drinks menu.
