The Steel Cauldron has launched on the site of the old Blues Bar pub – formerly the South Sea – on Spooner Road in Broomhill, and the building has undergone quite a transformation, becoming a family-friendly café inspired by tales like the Harry Potter series and The Lord of the Rings.
Run by husband and wife Rob and Nikki Downham, the place had 1,000 bookings before the first cup of tea was even poured. It is decorated with ‘flying books’, battered suitcases perfect for a trip on the Hogwarts Express, cabinets filled with wizarding knick-knacks, wands and even a large indoor tree draped with feathers and jewels.
Diners can order a Wizards Tea – featuring a ‘cauldron’ consisting of a Yorkshire pudding with cheese and Henderson’s Relish, alongside cake and other treats – while upcoming plans include a virtual reality area and workshops in wand-making and potion-brewing.
The venue has a licensed bar too, while upstairs there is even a themed apartment called The Steel Wizards Rest that families can hire for sleepovers.
Take a visual tour of the tea room below.
1. Take home a souvenir
Here's a display of 'Dr W's Wizarding Wares', including earrings, bracelets and necklaces for sale. Photo: Nik Farah
2. Clever touches
A vintage cash register sits at the end of the counter. Photo: Nik Farah
3. Tea is served
The café area features mismatched furniture to conjure up an antique feel. Photo: Nik Farah
4. A wizard's tea
There are versions of the Wizards Tea available for children and grown-ups. Photo: Nik Farah