Ballie Ballerson Announces Closure As It Struggles with Rising Costs and Pandemic Debt

Scotland's first ball pit cocktail bar, Ballie Ballerson announced that it will be closing its doors.

Ballie Ballerson, located on Forrest Road, announced on Tuesday, October 8, that it will be closing its doors due to rising operating costs, the cost of living crisis, and significant debt accrued during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Scotland's first ball pit cocktail bar opened on June 22, 2022, in the former McSorley’s Irish Bar at Oddfellows Hall, a Grade B listed building dating back to 1873.

The 300-capacity, 7,500 square foot venue featured a unique experience where guests could wade through a waist-deep, mirrored ball pit filled with clear balls.

The bar’s owners, Ballie Edinburgh LTD, filed for administration with Quantuma Advisory Limited on October 4, 2024, as reported by The Gazette. The firm has now released a statement confirming the unfortunate closure of the bar.

Customers with existing bookings will be issued full refunds.

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