Features / Barton Hill

In photos: Inside derelict Barton Hill building

By Ellie Pipe  Wednesday Jan 10, 2024

A pay phone and a sign urging people to use ashtrays give an indication as to when the Barton Hill Tenants Association building was in use.

These items, alongside old vinyl records, beer glasses, an old score board and notice behind the bar saying ‘cheques are not accepted’, are among the remnants remaining inside the dilapidated premises on Avonvale Road, which are due to be demolished.

It had been hoped that the building that was once a church could be brought back to life, but the state of disrepair means it will be knocked down to make way for new flats and a community space.

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Owner Bristol City Council has confirmed demolition of the historic building will get underway before the end of the month.

Members of Barton Hill History Group went inside before the site is reduced to rubble to preserve a piece of history. This is what they found:

‘If the floor is covered in cigarette ends, please use the ashtrays”

A dusty pay phone remains in the former Barton Hill Tenants Association building

‘No cheques accepted’ behind the bar

Vinyl records and Courage beer glasses from times gone by

An old score board sponsored by Butcombe

The premises have been left to fall into rack and ruin

The derelict Barton Hill Tenants Association building is due to be demolished imminently

All photos: Alexander Smith

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