HIVE Blackpool
Tom Grieve, Cinema Editor
Home to both an alternative gallery and a fantastic coffee shop, bakehouse and restaurant, Hive is well worth a trip on your next visit to the famous seaside resort. Close to the Winter Gardens and the Grand Theatre, the space was born out of a desire to provide a different sort of exhibition space in Blackpool and prides itself on offering opportunities to artists of all backgrounds and disciplines.
Set apart by its desire to offer all artists a place to call home no matter which point they are at in their creative journey, this mission is perfectly exemplified by its ‘GuggenHive’ wall: a space in the gallery’s entrance where creatives of all artforms can exhibit their work for free, Elsewhere, visitors can explore the alternative gallery on the building’s first floor which houses the work of larger collectives, as well as occasional university exhibits and auctions. A community-focused space, everyone is welcome here.
There’s more, too. Not just a brilliant place to discover new art, Hive is also an artisan’s delight: boasting its own blend of speciality Arabica coffee beans, as well as a selection of in-house bakes and other sweet treats that are created daily by its resident baker.
On the counter you’ll find a range of cookies, cakes and sweet treats, whilst on its brunch and lunch menus visitors will uncover a huge range of sandwiches, bagels and wraps, as well as classic favourites like breakfast bowls, fry-ups, things on toast and stacked buttermilk pancakes.
A popular hang-out for coffee connoisseurs of all ages, fill up until lunch with homemade sourdough toast, topped with crispy bacon, slashed avocado and free-range poached eggs. As the day goes on, hungry sight-seers can dig into hot sandwiches, homemade soups, gourmet layered sandwiches, quiches and some super seasonal salads.
Whether you’re looking for a spot of culture, to discover new talent, or simply for a really good cup of coffee and some tasty treats, make sure to put Hive on your list next time you’re in Blackpool.
