The Grapes on Mathew Street, a pub with a building dating back to 1804, is known worldwide for its Beatles connection, but landlords Karen and Les Strickland say it is much more than a tourist attraction. In the latest edition of the ECHO's Pub Corner, the couple spoke about running the historic venue and their lifetime in pubs.
The pub was the only boozer on Mathew Street for a while, making it a firm favourite for The Beatles, who would head there for a drink after a gig at the Cavern Club. While this history has made the pub a Liverpool landmark, Karen, from Kirkby, said the venue's charm extends beyond the band.
A Lively Pub, Not a Museum
Karen told the ECHO: "The Beatles history is a big part of this pub, but it's not the be all and end all. We're not stuck in the past. It's not a museum." She added: "We're lively. We keep it going every day. There are great people in front of me and amazing people behind me that keep it all going."
She said: "We couldn't let The Beatles down because their history is a big part of The Grapes, but The Grapes is not living in the past and it's a lively pub so you've got to dovetail the two." The couple have used their 45 years of experience in Liverpool pubs to ensure the place has a heart and soul that attracts regulars.
Family Vibe and Regulars
Les, from Wavertree, recalled struggling to get into The Grapes in the 1980s because it was so busy. The couple took over the pub eight years ago when they were running the Queens in Aintree and parent company Blind Tiger Inns gave them the opportunity.
The pub has a "family" vibe in a literal sense, as the couple employ five of their 17 grandchildren. Their granddaughter Grace Strickland, 20, has worked there since she was legally able to and said it has given her vital people skills. She said: "I see this place more than I see my own mum and dad. I learn loads all the time with attitude and how to speak to people."
Regular Donna Twigg, 63, said: "You've got your set of regulars but it's different people all the time. You meet people from all over the world in this pub, chat to them and make them feel welcome. I'm proud of the pub and proud of the city."
A New Era After Refurbishment
Karen said the couple have no intentions of walking away from the industry after turning 70. She said: "Why quit? To go in the garden and sit twiddling your thumbs." The pub recently completed a brand new refurbishment this summer.
The Beatles connection may have put The Grapes on the map, but it continues to attract the city's celebrities. In an interview with the ECHO, Jodie Comer said she would take Hugh Jackman to The Grapes for karaoke on her perfect day in Liverpool. Karen said: "I'd like to say to Jodie we'd absolutely love you to bring Hugh to The Grapes for a pint. We've got a mic waiting for him. The Greatest Showman does go down well here in The Grapes."
