The Bristol branch of the iconic cocktail bar chain Be At One is closing its doors this Saturday, marking the end of a 12-year run. The closure was announced via email, in which the bar thanked its patrons for an unforgettable journey filled with countless cocktails and memorable nights.
“We’re closing our doors for the last time, December 20th,” the message read. “It’s been a wild ride and we’ve loved every second of it. Thank you for every cocktail shaken, every party thrown, and every memory made.” Although this chapter is ending, the venue will be transitioning into a Stonegate Pub Partners establishment, set to reopen in the new year.
This local closure is part of a broader shake-up by Stonegate Group, the parent company that owns Be At One alongside Slug & Lettuce. Stonegate is currently considering the sale or refinancing of over 1,000 of its pubs — approximately a quarter of its 4,300 venues — as part of a strategic effort to return to profitability.
Last year, Stonegate reported revenues exceeding £1.7 billion but was burdened by debts surpassing £3 billion. According to reports, around 1,034 pubs categorized as the “Platinum” portfolio could be sold, with a potential value reaching close to £1 billion.
David McDowall, Stonegate’s Chief Executive, has described these changes as part of a “transformation plan” intended to steer the company back to financial health. A spokesperson confirmed that while various options, including a full or partial sale of the Platinum pubs, are being explored, no final decisions have yet been made. Stonegate stresses that progress on its transformation strategy continues positively.
In addition to the Bristol site, Be At One operates bars in cities like Birmingham, and Stonegate’s portfolio includes other popular venues such as Slug & Lettuce in Brindleyplace and the Birmingham city centre.