Liverpool FC legend John Barnes has been confirmed to appear at the reopening celebrations of Yates in Queen Square, following a major refurbishment. The pub, which has been closed for several weeks, will reopen on Wednesday, August 19, at 5pm.
Refurbishment and Investment
Yates, founded in 1884, is part of Stonegate, the UK's largest pub operator. The company, which owns thousands of venues nationwide, including Popworld, Slug & Lettuce, and Be At One in the region, has invested a six-figure sum into the Liverpool venue. The investment includes a new 100-inch TV, upgraded audiovisual technology, dedicated pool and darts areas, two pool tables, two digital dartboards, and a refreshed interior.
A note left on the door read: “Temporarily closed. Closed for a refurbishment. We are busy making some exciting improvements.” Stonegate told the ECHO that the transformation has made the pub a “destination for live sport, food and social occasions”.
John Barnes Appearance
As part of the reopening celebrations, John Barnes will make a special appearance on Sunday, August 23, ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match against Newcastle. Fans will have the chance to meet the former footballer, pose for photos, and see him pour a pint behind the bar before a live pre-match Q&A. Barnes will then watch the game with supporters, with further opportunities to meet him after the final whistle.
Wade Zammit, General Manager at Yates Liverpool, said: “This investment is about much more than giving the venue a new look. We've created a space that offers something for everyone, whether you're joining us to watch live sport on our new big screen, enjoy Bottomless Brunch with friends, try our new Sunday roast or simply make the most of our fantastic food and drink offers.”
New Menu and Heritage
The reopening also marks the launch of a Sunday roast menu, and on August 23, the team will introduce a Bottomless Brunch offering. The venue originally opened in Queen Square in 1998 following the closure of the historic Yates's Wine Lodge on Moorfields. This latest investment builds on previous refurbishments in 2011 and 2016, ensuring the venue continues to evolve while remaining true to its heritage.
Guests can follow the 7-day countdown to the reopening, along with competitions and upcoming events, by following Yates Liverpool on social media.
