I thought the article BT Tower to host pop-up version of ACC Liverpool by David Quainton in yesterdays AM bulletin was very interesting. The ACC Liverpool, which includes the BT Convention Centre and Echo Arena, will create a pop up venue for one day only on the 8th December within the revolving observation platform of the BT Tower. What an inspired idea and the perfect location for a pop-up venue.
I remember my parents telling me about the revolving restaurant at the top of what was then the Post Office Tower. Maybe it’s because the 188 metre tower has always been a part of how I see the London skyline but I often catch a glimpse of it and think how amazing it must have been to have dinner there on the 36th floor with its 360 degree views.
The restaurant opened in 1966 as topothetower and was managed by Butlins (more famous for their holiday camps) which was then part of the Rank Organisation. It remained in operation until the Butlins lease expired in 1980.
I’ve come across a menu booklet from the late 1960’s. Some of the artwork, especially the cross section of the restaurant and kitchens is so retro it’s practically contemporary. It certainly offers a wonderful window into a world that at the time must have seemed like the future. I've added some of the pages from the booklet below or you can download a PDF of the full booklet here.
There are plans to open the restaurant again, read the article by Nick Henderson on the Conference & Incentive Travel web site about how the BT Tower is set to reopen revolving restaurant, and when it does I’ll be first in the queue. If anyone from ACC Liverpool wants to invite me to their event on the 8th December I’ll clear my diary!
Also read Chantelle Thorleys article BT Tower lights up London in countdown to Olympics.
