The famous Liverpool pub reopened its doors in August
Hannah Rees joined the newsroom as the Liverpool ECHO’s newsletter lead in 2021 after graduating from Liverpool John Moores University with a master’s degree in Journalism. She is now the Liverpool ECHO’s social media editor.
Hannah Rees visits Ye Cracke after it reopened its doors
Liverpool has lost many great pubs iover the years. But when news broke that Ye Cracke was closing its doors and being taken over by new owners, like many, I was absolutely gutted. For me, there’s no better pub in the city. Whether it’s the relaxed atmosphere, the fact it’s an authentic, traditional pub or just that it serves a great pint, there’s something about it that’s always made it feel different from the rest.
I’ve spent many a night sipping a pint, badgering the juke box and catching up with friends and family at the historic pub.
So when it was time to say goodbye, I really hoped whoever took it on next would preserve the things that made it so special and it would remain the warm, welcoming pub that many have come to love.
Ye Cracke has stood on Rice Street in the Georgian Quarter since the 19th century. Originally called The Ruthin Castle, Ye Cracke came to be in 1862, when the then landlord of the Ruthin Castle extended the premises by buying the cottage next door.
Ye Cracke closed to the public in April(Image: Andrew Teebay Liverpool Echo)
The pub is perhaps best known for being John Lennon’s favourite spot for a beer when he was an arts student. The Beatle’s drink of choice was a black velvet – made from Guinness and sparkling wine. It’s also where he took his first wife, Cynthia Lennon, on their first date after meeting her at a college dance.
After closing its doors in April of this year for a ‘delicate renovation’, the pub finally reopened on August 28. Pictures shared in the ECHO show the pub has been lovingly restored to its former glory, with many features such as its welcome sign and Battle of Waterloo mural still hanging on the walls. I visited the pub on Friday afternoon to see what it is like. And, fortunately, it still boasts its original charm.
Ye Cracke reopened on Thursday, August 28
After having a quick nose at its restored side rooms, including ‘The War Office,’ I headed straight for the bar to see what was on draft. The options were Guinness, Mahou, Camden Eazy IPA, Stella Artois, Koppaberg Crisp Apple, Spaten and Murphy’s Irish Stout. Ye Cracke also serves its own German pilsner, Dissenter. A good selection, I thought.
There were a fair few bottles of German beer in its fridge too, including Paulaner and Augustiner, and cask ales on the pumps. Punters feeling peckish could buy some Tayto crisps or one of its hot pies, coming with a selection of different fillings.
The main room, which used to have benches along its walls, now feels a lot more spacious with some of its benched seats replaced with bar tables.
The War Office at Ye Cracke
The former benches have also been replaced with new, leatherette seats. The floorboards have been sanded and stained. The toilets have also been given a makeover and there’s still a juke box.
The beer garden at the back has had some TLC and remains a cracking spot for sitting in the sun.
The Stable at Ye Cracke (Pic Andrew Teebay).
One feature that really stood out is the renovation of its former stable which has been fitted with bar stools, tables and a television. It’s tucked away from the main bar and has a big, open window to let you watch the world go by. It is a great addition.
After a couple of pints, I headed home, made up the pub I have long loved feels like it has been given a new lease of life. It felt like the old Cracke, but with a meticulous makeover, clearly done in keeping with its history.
Take a look at Ye Cracke’s renovation in the ECHO’s photo gallery.