The Bridewell, a Grade-II listed pub on Argyle Street in Liverpool city centre, was once a police lock-up where drunken sailors were detained. Now, its owners have revealed that the building also served as the rehearsal space where Frankie Goes to Hollywood were formed in the early 1980s, before it became a licensed premises.
Dominic Hornsby and his wife Fiona have owned the pub since 2019. Dominic, 50, spoke to the ECHO about the venue's history as a police station and its unexpected musical connection.
A former lock-up with a musical past
The building was constructed in the 1840s as a lock-up police station. It was one of approximately eight bridewells dotted around the city, and this one was the closest to the docks, so it was used to lock up drunken sailors.
Dominic explained that the pub retains many unique features, including the old cell doors, which are now drinking areas, along with the original vaulted ceilings and York stone floors.
Frankie Goes to Hollywood's formation
The discovery that Frankie Goes to Hollywood formed at The Bridewell came through a friendship with Brian Nash, the band's lead guitarist. Nash told the couple that before the building became a pub, it was used as rehearsal space for local bands.
When Frankie Goes to Hollywood reformed to perform at a pre-event at St George's Hall during Eurovision, Nash organised the after-show party at The Bridewell. The owners hosted the event, describing it as a historic moment and a great thrill, with fans from around the world visiting the pub.
Regulars and famous guests
The pub has welcomed notable guests, including Everton legends Peter Reid, Graeme Sharp, Kevin Ratcliffe, and Neville Southall, as well as rugby league figures from Australia, St Helens, and Great Britain.
Dominic noted that the pub sells a lot of German beer, particularly Veltins, a German pilsner he has drunk for 30 years. Their company is the number one in the UK for Veltins sales.
The owners emphasised the importance of their regular clientele, aged between 18 and 80, and their commitment to making every customer feel welcome, regardless of age or background.
