The Ultimate Guide to Liverpool Pub Crawl Tradition
As the days grow shorter and the air gets colder, the allure of a cozy pub becomes increasingly irresistible. Luckily, South Liverpool boasts a high concentration of charming pubs, particularly in the picturesque Woolton Village. This area exudes a village-like charm with its quaint shops, family-run eateries, churches, and beautiful homes. But what sets Woolton apart for those seeking a pub crawl experience is its abundance of watering holes. For many locals, Woolton has long been the setting for the beloved ’12 pubs of Christmas’ tradition, a festive pub crawl enjoyed by friends every December. To achieve a full dozen pubs, a visit to the neighboring Gateacre village is necessary, offering a handful of additional pubs to explore. However, Woolton itself has plenty of pubs to satisfy even the most enthusiastic pub crawler.
Gateacre: The Starting Point
To kick off the pub crawl tradition, Gateacre is an ideal starting point with its trio of pubs strategically positioned in a triangle formation. The Bear & Staff and The Black Bull are both classic establishments, providing a safe and comfortable beginning to the pub crawl. The third pub in Gateacre, The Brown Cow, has undergone a recent transformation with a significant investment in 2021. The addition of a spacious beer garden has elevated its appeal, making it a must-visit stop for those seeking a relaxing outdoor drinking experience.
Woolton Village: A Pub Crawler’s Paradise
After a few pints in Gateacre, a leisurely stroll from Gateacre to Woolton Village sets the stage for the next phase of the pub crawl. As you enter Woolton Village, you’ll encounter a series of charming “old-man pubs” along Acrefield Road, each offering a unique atmosphere and selection of beverages. The White Horse, with its traditional wood-panelled bar and cozy snugs, stands out as a favorite stop on the crawl, perfect for a winter’s evening. Just a stone’s throw away on Woolton Street is The Elephant, a popular gastropub once managed by celebrity chef Simon Rimmer. Known for its wide array of lagers and cask ales, The Elephant’s bustling atmosphere may require patrons to cozy up to the bar if seating is scarce. Adjacent to The Elephant is the Liberty Tavern, offering an alternative option for those seeking a more relaxed pub experience.
Continuing down Woolton Road leads to The Coffee House, another reliable pub with a welcoming ambiance and ample outdoor seating. Transitioning onto Quarry Street reveals a cluster of traditional pubs, starting with The Grapes Inn, a cozy street corner pub with a classic bar and a jukebox filled with timeless hits. Further down Quarry Street lies The Victoria, a friendly pub known for live music and dart games, providing a lively setting for the evening’s festivities. The Cobden Vaults, a community favorite steeped in history, offers a nostalgic drinking experience with its old-school charm and diverse ale selection.
To conclude the pub crawl, a visit to The Gardeners Arms on Vale Road promises a lively atmosphere, complete with karaoke nights and a welcoming community vibe. Finally, a stop at The Derby Arms on the corner of Vale Road and Allerton Road provides a fitting end to the evening with its extensive selection of lagers, ales, and a reliable pint of Guinness. After a full day of exploring Woolton’s finest pubs, patrons can retire to bed content in the knowledge that they’ve partaken in a pub crawl brimming with the essence of traditional community establishments.