Inside Knowle butcher's ambitious plans to create the ‘best food hall in the UK’
By Emily Griffin 4th Nov 2026
A centuries-old well, a walk-in greengrocer and a dedicated steak counter are among the plans for Eric Lyons Butchers as it prepares to transform its Knowle store.
The family-run business is planning a major refurbishment, with Nick Lyons, who heads up retail, hoping to create a shopping experience that goes far beyond a traditional butcher's shop.
"I want to make it the best food hall in the UK," he said.
The plans will see the Knowle store expand its offering with a deli counter selling sliced meats, sandwiches and salads, alongside an expanded butchery and a dedicated steak counter.
Customers could also see fresh fish, a larger cheese selection, fresh cakes and rotisserie chicken introduced as the range develops.
A greengrocer section is planned inside a walk-in fridge, while dedicated fridges and freezers will make it easier for customers to browse different products.
"I want every single door to have a reason," Nick said, explaining his plans to give each fridge a dedicated range rather than mixing different products together.
The vision extends beyond the food itself, with plans for a merchandise section selling everything from branded tea towels and bottle openers to salt and pepper grinders.

Nick also wants the shop to feel different every time customers visit, with changing displays and moving images designed to catch their attention.
"I don't ever want it to get boring," he said.
"You come in this week, and you come in next week, and you come in the week after, and every week is different."
The refurbishment will also bring attention to a historic feature of the building, a well thought to be hundreds of years old.
The well, which has a hand pump, was once used to supply water to animals in the yard.
Nick said he had wanted to showcase it since the shop's previous refurbishment eight years ago, rather than keeping it hidden from customers.
The building also has a family connection, as Nick's grandmother once lived there with his father and uncles.
"You can't buy a well," he said. "It doesn't just happen."

The refurbishment is part of a wider period of investment for the business, which has moved its production operation to Oakland International in Redditch to help facilitate the changes and support future growth.
Workhas completed at the company's Balsall Common store, where plans included a new shopfront, electric doors and an awning, as well as more space for products.
Nick said the business had taken inspiration from visits to retailers including Selfridges, Harrods and Whole Foods, alongside independent food businesses.
The Knowle refurbishment is expected to take place in stages, with the shop remaining open throughout.
Nick hopes the work will be completed by the second week of December, although he acknowledged that the final details could take until January or February.
"There's going to be lots of long nights," he said.
"That's the fun of it."
For Nick, the ambition is to create a place where customers can return regularly and continue to discover something new.
"I think every single person I'll show round will be, like, actually blown away," he said.
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