Andover’s High Street could soon welcome an exciting new food and drink venue as planning applications hint at a fresh addition to the town’s hospitality scene.
The former Barclays building, which has stood empty since last year, is the subject of two new applications – one of which is for outdoor seating, suggesting a bustling café-bar atmosphere may be on the horizon.
The potential new occupant? The Lounges – a well-established café-bar chain with locations across the UK, including a popular site in nearby Newbury. Known for their relaxed, all-day dining experience and quirky interiors, Lounges venues offer a mix of brunch classics, hearty meals, and craft drinks in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Lounges was founded in 2002 by three friends, Dave Reid, Alex Reilley, and Jake Bishop, who had spent years working in – and enjoying – the restaurant and bar industry. Their vision was simple: to create a space they would love to drink in themselves. The very first Lounge opened in a former opticians in Bristol, and from there, the brand grew rapidly, spreading its laid-back, community-focused venues across the country.
If the plans are approved, Andover could soon join the list of towns enjoying the Lounges experience, bringing a fresh vibrancy to the High Street and offering a new social hub for residents and visitors alike. With its signature blend of stylish décor, casual dining, and a warm atmosphere, the arrival of The Lounges could mark an exciting new chapter for the town’s food and drink scene.
While the final details are yet to be confirmed, one thing is certain – Andover’s High Street could be about to get a whole lot livelier.
