Former Bank of England Building in Liverpool to be home of The Ivy

Plans have emerged to transform the former Bank of England building on Castle Street into a new luxurious dining destination.

The Ivy, renowned for its celebrity clientele in London, has its eyes set on Liverpool for its next destination.

The former Bank of England building is a Grade I listed architectural gem. The grandeur of the Victorian-era building, described as a “masterpiece of Victorian architecture,” adds an air of sophistication and heritage to this exciting new restaurant.

The bank was designed by Charles Robert Cockerell, and the building stands as a testament to Liverpool’s historic prominence as a hub of commerce and trade.

A report to Liverpool City Council’s planning committee said:

“Its scale and powerful design language evidences the importance of Liverpool as a highly influential centre of commerce and trade which led to the founding of this first regional outpost of the Bank of England outside of London.

“Internally the building has an austere character, a contrast with many other banks of Liverpool where wealth is flaunted with fine marbles, gilding and lavish decoration.”

The approval of the plans to transform the bank into a restaurant took place in August 2023, and speculation of what brand will be making this iconic building its new home is now over.

Former Bank of England building on Castle Street - The Guide Liverpool — Former Bank of England building on Castle Street – The Guide Liverpool

Back in 2015 the building was occupied by Love Activists advocating for the space to be used to house homeless people in Liverpool, and in 2022 the plans, by JSM Group, were submitted to convert the ground floor space into bar/restaurant.

The exterior of the former Bank of England will undergo subtle yet stylish enhancement to show off The Ivy’s presence. Expect to see a fabric awning adorned with The Ivy’s name, with a brass back-lit sign and four planters.

Additionally, a standalone menu sign will also be placed outside, inviting passersby to see what delights await within.

The basement level will be dedicated to expanding kitchen facilities and storage, for operations behind the scenes. On the first floor, guests will find the customer restrooms, and there will be areas for staff rooms.

The second and third floors of the bank will remain unused, while the rear enclosed bullion yard will transform into a restaurant and bar space.

You can see the plans for the building on the Liverpool City Council planning portal here.

As anticipation mounts, one thing is certain – the former Bank of England building is poised to reclaim its status as a beacon of elegance and refinement in the heart of Liverpool.