The Watson, constructed between 1898 and 1907, originally functioned as Library House and was designed by William J. Fennell for Robert Watson & Co., a premier furniture manufacturer whose beds featured in royal residences and aboard the Titanic . It’s locally nicknamed the “Smoothing Iron” due to its tapered, wedge-like shape.

Externally, architectural detailing includes a round turret and castellated parapet on the rear elevation, contributing to a striking silhouette. The structure spans multiple storeys, likely three or more, reflecting its historical function as both a showroom (ground floor) and production facility (upper levels)—a configuration that accommodated both display and industrial needs. The building received B1 listed status (HB26/50/280) in August 2008.

Historical Development & Past Uses

• Original Use (c. 1900s): The building served Robert Watson & Co. as a showroom and factory for finely crafted furniture, achieving local renown for its craftsmanship.

• Mid-20th Century: Following the company’s closure in the late 1960s, the building endured a period of decline and partial vacancy.

• Frames Snooker/Pool Hall (1983 onward): Revived in 1983, it reopened as Frames, becoming the largest snooker and pool hall in the UK with nearly fifty tables.

• Transformation into The Watson (circa late 2024): The site underwent a significant reinvention under hospitality group The Jar Ltd, with an initial £3.5 million investment creating multiple distinct venues—including The Library Café & Cocktail Bar, The Watson Draught House, and the restored Frames Pool Hall. A further £1.5 million phase two rollout is scheduled, adding Watson’s Wine Warehouse and extra pool space.

Past Planning Applications

In August 2007, Gracemount Enterprises submitted a planning application (Z/2007/2120/F) proposed demolishing the building to build a 12-storey mixed-use development. The building was spot-listed in 2008, and the plan was revised to refurbish the existing structure into apartments, retail, and office space. This application was approved in September 2011.

In September 2016, Gracemount Enterprises Ltd submitted a planning application (LA04/2016/1915/F) seeking to renew the 2007 permission with revised uses (retail, office, 18 apartments). This application was refused in December 2018.

In December 2019, JAR (IRE) Ltd submitted a planning application (LA04/2019/2881/F) and listed building consent (LA04/2019/2757/LBC) proposing the refurbishment of ground- and first-floor bar areas, reinstatement of original ground-floor bay windows, and door/window openings on the Library Street elevation. This application was approved in August 2020.

The Watson Proposals – LA04/2023/3216/LBC

In May 2023, Jar (IRE) submitted an application for listed building consent (LA04/2023/3216/LBC), seeking amendments to the previously approved application LA04/2019/2757/LBC. The proposed changes include additional internal works, such as relocating WC blocks away from perimeter walls and windows, replacing certain high-level windows with automated glazed louvres to improve interior ventilation in line with building regulations, and the inclusion of additional floor space. This application was approved in October 2023.

Current Use & Future

Today, The Watson is an integrated entertainment hub offering multiple experiences under one roof: live music, cocktails, draught beer, pool, and soon-to-launch premium wine and beer retail offerings through Watson’s Wine Warehouse.

In July 2025, JAR (IRE) LTD submitted a planning application (LA04/2025/1304/F) and listed building consent (LA04/2025/1306/LBC) proposing:

• Amendments to exterior elevations and street frontage.

• Internal reconfigurations at second, third, and fourth floors, modifying layouts without changing use.

• Installation of a new internal staircase providing vertical access from ground to fourth floor.

The proposals include new pool space, shuffle boards, extended bar space on ground floor and new access from Union Street.