The Queens Arms on Admiral Street in Liverpool has been awarded by the Rainbow Toffees, Everton FC’s LGBTQ+ supporters club, after a £265,000 refurbishment. The pub, which reopened in 2025, is run by siblings Anthony and Leah Evans, fulfilling a family ambition.
Family Legacy and Community Spirit
Leah Evans, 42, became manager after seven years working behind the bar. She said taking on The Queens Arms fulfilled a promise to her late father. “My family has always been in the industry and it was a wish of my late father to one day have this pub,” she told the Liverpool Echo. Her mother Kim also works at the venue, and the family has been drinking there for generations.
Leah added: “My nan lived just across the road. We've been coming here since we were kids. People come in on their own and make friends. It's a real family pub in every sense.”
Inclusivity Recognised by Rainbow Toffees
The Rainbow Toffees, Everton’s LGBTQ+ supporters club, regularly use the pub. Their squad will honour The Queens Arms at the upcoming Rainbow Toffee Awards on August 28, 2026, at BOXPARK. Paul Hession from the Rainbow Toffees said: “We chose The Queens Arms to receive this award because of the continued support and kindness they've shown to the Rainbow Toffees football team over the years.”
Leah’s sister Becky told the Echo: “We get all walks of life in this pub, and nobody bats an eye. So, once again, thank you to every one of you for making everyone feel welcome, no matter what.”
Refurbishment Details
The £265,000 investment included new lighting, signage, windows, and a revamped beer garden. The garden seats around 50 people with new furniture, a wooden pergola, an outdoor TV screen, and heaters for year-round use. The pub also hosts regular cards, darts, bingo, and crib leagues.
Leah said: “I wanted the new look to still feel traditional. New bits here and there, but keep it a real traditional pub that people would be familiar with.” She noted the age range of customers spans from 21 to 96, calling it “very welcoming.”
Award Ceremony Details
The Rainbow Toffee Awards, hosted by India Willoughby, will feature a live performance by The Cilla Experience (Katie Bell). Tickets are available on Skiddle. The annual event honours unsung heroes and community role models.
