The Jacaranda: Liverpool’s Legendary Music Venue and Cultural Hub
Discover The Jacaranda, Liverpool’s iconic live music venue where The Beatles first played, blending rich history with vibrant nightlife and community spirit.
The Jacaranda, located at 21-23 Slater Street in Liverpool, is a historic music venue and bar founded in 1958 by Allan Williams, the Beatles’ first manager. Celebrated for its key role in the Merseybeat scene and as an early platform for The Beatles, it features live music in its basement, a vibrant bar on the ground floor, and a record store upstairs. The venue blends vintage charm with a lively atmosphere, making it a cornerstone of Liverpool’s musical heritage and nightlife.
A brief summary to The Jacaranda
- 21-23 Slater St, Liverpool, L1 4BW, GB
- +441513631294
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-3 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-3 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-3 am
- Thursday 12 pm-3 am
- Friday 12 pm-4 am
- Saturday 12 pm-4 am
- Sunday 12 pm-3 am
Local tips
- Visit on weekends to catch the Indie Rock Circus on Fridays and Rock N Roll Circus on Saturdays for lively live music shows.
- Explore the upstairs Jacaranda Records store for a curated selection of vinyl and a cozy café atmosphere.
- Look for the original murals painted by John Lennon and Stuart Sutcliffe in the basement rehearsal space.
- Check the venue’s schedule for open mic nights on Sundays to experience emerging local talent.
- Arrive early on busy nights to secure seating and enjoy the vintage décor and Beatles memorabilia.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Liverpool Central Station, it is a 10–15 minute walk to The Jacaranda. The station is served by frequent local and regional trains, making it a convenient option for visitors. No additional transport fare is required beyond your train ticket.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes stop near Slater Street, including services from Duke Street bus stop approximately 5 minutes’ walk away. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with fares typically between £2 and £4 depending on distance.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available in central Liverpool. A taxi from Liverpool Lime Street Station to The Jacaranda usually takes 5–10 minutes depending on traffic and costs around £5–£8.
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Walking
If you are staying in Liverpool city centre, The Jacaranda is easily accessible on foot via flat, paved streets. Walking times range from 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point, suitable for most visitors.
The Jacaranda location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Jacaranda
Origins and Musical Heritage
The Jacaranda opened in 1958, founded by Allan Williams, the first manager of The Beatles. Originally a coffee bar with one of Liverpool’s first espresso machines and an American-style jukebox, it quickly became a hotspot for local musicians and youth culture. The venue was instrumental in the rise of the Merseybeat movement, hosting early performances by The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, and Rory Storm and The Hurricanes. Its basement served as a rehearsal space for The Beatles, where John Lennon and Stuart Sutcliffe painted murals that remain visible today.A Hub for Liverpool’s Music Scene
The Jacaranda remains a vibrant live music venue, hosting performances most nights in its basement. It champions emerging talent through open mic nights and themed shows like the Indie Rock Circus and Rock N Roll Circus on weekends. The venue’s dedication to grassroots music keeps Liverpool’s rich musical culture alive, blending history with contemporary sounds.Atmosphere and Venue Layout
The Jacaranda’s ground floor bar offers a welcoming space with a mix of hot and cold drinks, from strong teas to crafted cocktails. Its décor combines vintage charm with fresh touches, featuring Beatles memorabilia and original artwork. Upstairs, Jacaranda Records operates as a record store and vinyl café, providing a haven for collectors and music lovers. The venue’s intimate size and lively ambiance create a unique social experience.Significance and Recognition
The Jacaranda’s historical importance was formally recognized in 2006 with a Pubs in Time plaque from CAMRA, honoring its role in The Beatles’ formative years. In 2024, it received a World Origin Site plaque commemorating the first performance by The Beatles under their famous name. These accolades underscore the venue’s enduring legacy as a cultural landmark in Liverpool.Community and Cultural Impact
Beyond music, The Jacaranda serves as a cultural hub for Liverpool’s creative community. It has been a meeting place for musicians, artists, and locals for decades, fostering a sense of belonging and artistic collaboration. Its commitment to supporting independent music and local talent continues to shape Liverpool’s cultural landscape.Visitor Experience and Nightlife
Open daily from noon until the early hours, The Jacaranda offers a lively nightlife experience in Liverpool’s Ropewalks district. Visitors can enjoy live music, browse vinyl records, or relax with a drink in a venue steeped in musical history. Its location near Liverpool Central Station and Concert Square makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists eager to experience a piece of the city’s legendary music scene.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
