Waitrose is set to open a major new supermarket in north London, marking one of its first full line stores in eight years. The upscale retailer will transform the former Galtymore Ballroom in Cricklewood into an 18,000 square foot grocery haven, expected to open in autumn 2026.
A New Hub for Grocery Enthusiasts
The new Waitrose will occupy the site of the historic Galtymore Ballroom, a dance hall that served as a cultural hub for Irish emigrants from the 1950s to the early 2000s. Located at 194-196 Cricklewood Broadway, NW2 3BN, the store will offer a full range of products, including fresh meat, fish, and cheese counters where customers can select specific cuts and weights. A dedicated bakery section and an extensive wine selection will also be featured.
Full Line Experience
This will be one of the few full line Waitrose stores to open in nearly a decade, meaning shoppers can expect premium offerings such as the Waitrose No.1 and Essential Waitrose lines. Based on other full line locations, the Cricklewood store may also include a sushi bar, dine-in counter, or even a wine bar, similar to the King's Cross branch.
Convenient Access
The supermarket will feature a dedicated basement car park and is located just a five-minute walk from Cricklewood train station, making it easily accessible for shoppers.
Part of a Growth Strategy
The Cricklewood opening is part of Waitrose's wider expansion plans, which also include a new full line store in Manchester this year. Additionally, the retailer announced last month that it is expanding into airports, starting with a location at Heathrow Terminal 2.
Waitrose Cricklewood is scheduled to open in autumn 2026, bringing a new level of grocery shopping to north London residents.
