Thirst Trap in Union Street Hereford celebrates two years

Thirst Trap, in Union Street, opened in 2024 with owners Ed and Stuart Discroll Payne aiming to create a vibrant venue and a welcoming space where everybody could feel at home.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ed said the bar’s success comes from its individuality and the sense of community that has developed around it.

“It didn’t just fall off a conveyor belt,” he said. “It’s been created with love and attention.

“It’s akin to Stuart and I opening the doors of our house every weekend and inviting everyone to come in, and that really means everyone.

“What we pride ourselves on is being a safe space for anyone who respects that ethos, and this has really presented itself as something Hereford has needed for a long time.”

Ed said the venue’s customers are united by a shared appreciation of music, conversation and authenticity.

“Our community is difficult to describe, but simple to identify,” he said. “People who appreciate a good pint, and who value great music and a welcoming atmosphere.

“Its not boil-in-the bag. It has a vibe, it has energy, and our customer base has been with us from the beginning. They are travelling across the county and beyond to continue supporting us. They’re a collection of like-minded people who believe in the significance of human connection through music and conversation.”

The bar has continued to expand its programme of events, with its monthly quiz night growing in popularity and a new stand-up comedy night set to launch on October 15. Hosted by local comedians testing new material, the event will then take place on the second Tuesday of every month.

Looking back on the last two years, Ed said welcoming well-known names from the dance music world had been among the venue’s proudest achievements, including Angie Brown, Jon Pleased Wimmin, and Brandon Block.

Despite challenges facing the hospitality sector, Ed remains optimistic about the future.

He added: "As for the future, it would be lovely to say that we will be a permanent fixture, however, with the state of the economy, and how it is affecting our industry, nothing is certain.

"But we will continue to serve our wonderful customers and friends for the next few years at least. And, as we always say: use it or lose it!"