“Poplar House” and the Hill’s Poplar Works (soda water/drinks factory) chimney 2022.

William Hill built his factory in Hamilton Street in 1886. The adjoining “Poplar House” was built at the same time as a home for the Hill family.

The plant was eventually able to fill 20,000 bottles a day and their flavoured and fizzy drinks and mineral waters were sold all over Lincolnshire. Hill’s won a number of gold medals in national competitions. The medals were proudly depicted on their products.

In 1957, Wm. Hill & Sons (Grimsby) Ltd. of Hamilton Street and very local rivals Bellamy Bros. Ltd. of Hamilton Street merged but still operated under the two company names. The Hill’s plant closed in the 1960s.

The formers Hill’s Poplar Works has deteriorated dramatically in recent years, especially after a major fire destroyed the roof in 2009. Sadly, the remains of the factory are being demolished in March 2022. A sad end to a once very successful Grimsby business.