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Ma Egerton's Stage Door, Liverpool

Historic Liverpool pub famed for its theatrical heritage, legendary patrons, and cozy atmosphere near the Empire Theatre.

4.5

Ma Egerton's Stage Door is a historic Liverpool pub established in 1846, named after its longest-serving landlady Mary Egerton. Located on Pudsey Street near the Empire Theatre, it has a rich theatrical heritage, having hosted legendary performers like Frank Sinatra and Charlie Chaplin. The pub offers a cozy atmosphere with fine ales, wines, spirits, and a renowned pizza shop, making it a cherished cultural and social hub in Liverpool’s city centre.

A brief summary to Ma Egerton's Stage Door

  • 9 Pudsey St, Liverpool, L1 1JA, GB
  • +441513453525
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Friday 11 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-11 pm

Local tips

  • Try the Old Fashioned Pizza Shop’s rustic homemade pizzas named after famous patrons.
  • Visit on Monday nights for Tina Malone’s quiz or Friday nights for sing-along piano sessions.
  • Explore the Hollywood Wall of Fame inside, featuring autographed photos of legendary performers.
  • Enjoy the pedestrianised outside drinking area on Pudsey Street during warmer months.
  • Reserve in advance for special events or busy theatre nights to secure a spot.
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Getting There

  • Train and Walk

    From Liverpool Lime Street Station, walk approximately 10 minutes through the city centre to reach Ma Egerton's Stage Door. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for all mobility levels.

  • Bus

    Several city centre bus routes stop near Lime Street Station. From there, it is a 10-minute walk to the pub. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4 depending on the route and ticket type.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    Taxis and rideshare services can take you directly to 9 Pudsey Street from anywhere in Liverpool city centre within 5–15 minutes. Fares generally range from £5 to £10 depending on traffic.

Ma Egerton's Stage Door location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Ma Egerton's Stage Door

A Storied Legacy Rooted in Liverpool's Theatrical Heart

Ma Egerton's Stage Door traces its origins to 1846, originally known as The Eagle before being renamed in honor of Mary Egerton, its longest-serving landlady from the 1930s to the 1960s. Mary Egerton was not only a pub landlady but also a registered theatrical agent who fostered close ties with Liverpool’s vibrant entertainment scene. Situated just behind the Empire Theatre, the pub became a favored retreat for performers from nearby venues, including iconic names such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Sammy Davis Jr, Tom Jones, Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy, and Harry Houdini. This connection deeply embeds the pub in Liverpool’s cultural fabric, making it a living monument to the city’s rich theatrical past.

Architectural Charm and Historical Features

The pub retains much of its interwar character with original paneling, a timber and leaded glass partition wall, and a classic bar counter, complemented by a reproduction Victorian fireplace added during a 2012 refurbishment. The interior's lounge bar features fixed seating and vintage details like bell-pushes, evoking the ambiance of a bygone era. The pub was also the first place in the UK to use a cash register, an innovation introduced by an American salesman in Liverpool, reflecting Ma Egerton’s pioneering spirit. Autographed images of legendary stage and screen stars adorn the walls, creating a Hollywood Wall of Fame that celebrates its illustrious visitors.

A Hub for Social Life and Entertainment

Today, Ma Egerton’s continues to thrive as a welcoming venue offering a comfortable and safe environment steeped in theatrical history. It serves a fine selection of ales, wines, and spirits alongside its famous Old Fashioned Pizza Shop, which features rustic homemade pizzas named after its famous patrons. The pub hosts regular events such as Tina Malone’s Monday Night Quiz and Friday night sing-along piano sessions, maintaining its role as a lively cultural hotspot. The pedestrianised Pudsey Street outside allows for an inviting outside drinking area, enhancing its social appeal.

Connections to Liverpool’s Broader History

Beyond entertainment, Ma Egerton’s holds intriguing historical significance. Observations by Mary Egerton contributed to the conviction of the Victorian mass murderer Dr Crippen, adding a layer of local lore to its story. The pub’s proximity to Lime Street Station and the Empire Theatre situates it at a crossroads of Liverpool’s historical and contemporary urban life, bridging past and present.

Preserving Tradition While Embracing the Present

Despite challenges such as a temporary closure in 2012 due to rising rents, Ma Egerton’s has been sensitively refurbished to retain its character and charm. It remains a favored haunt for performers and locals alike, preserving its theatrical legacy while adapting to modern tastes. The pub’s ongoing commitment to quality and atmosphere ensures it remains a vital part of Liverpool’s nightlife and cultural heritage.

A Living Tribute to Liverpool’s Entertainment Icons

Ma Egerton’s Stage Door is more than just a pub; it is a vibrant tribute to the city’s entertainment history. Its walls tell stories of legendary stars and memorable nights, inviting visitors to experience a unique blend of history, culture, and conviviality. Whether enjoying a pizza named after a famous patron or soaking in the nostalgic ambiance, guests step into a place where Liverpool’s theatrical spirit lives on.

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