Eric's Liverpool: The Legendary Punk and Live Music Venue on Mathew Street
Historic punk club and vibrant live music venue on Mathew Street, where Liverpool’s musical legends were born and continue to thrive.
Eric's Liverpool, located at 9 Mathew Street, is a historic live music club and bar renowned for its pivotal role in the punk and post-punk scenes since opening in 1976. Opposite the famous Cavern Club, Eric's has hosted iconic bands like The Sex Pistols, The Clash, and Echo & the Bunnymen. Today, it remains a vibrant venue showcasing emerging artists with live music seven nights a week, preserving Liverpool's rich musical heritage in an electrifying atmosphere.
A brief summary to Eric's Liverpool
- 9 Mathew St, Liverpool, L2 6RE, GB
- +441513516702
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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-3 am
- Saturday 12 pm-3 am
- Sunday 12 pm-3 am
Local tips
- Check the live music schedule online to catch emerging local bands and special tribute nights.
- Visit during matinee shows if available for a unique experience of the venue’s historic youth culture.
- Enjoy a drink at the bar to soak in the authentic underground atmosphere steeped in punk history.
- Explore nearby Cavern Quarter landmarks to complement your visit to Eric’s.
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 and Walk
From Liverpool Lime Street Station, a 15-20 minute walk through the city center leads to Mathew Street. The route is flat and accessible, passing several landmarks. No transport cost, but consider local transit if preferred.
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Bus
Several local buses serve stops near Mathew Street from Liverpool city center, with a journey time of 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3. Service frequency is regular throughout the day but reduces late at night.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can reach Eric’s directly in about 5-10 minutes from central Liverpool. Fares typically range from £5 to £10 depending on traffic and time of day.
Eric's Liverpool location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Eric's Liverpool
Origins and Punk Revolution
Eric's Liverpool opened its doors on October 1, 1976, initially in the basement of The Fruit Exchange Building on Victoria Street before relocating to its long-term home on Mathew Street. Founded by Roger Eagle, Ken Testi, and Pete Fulwell, the club quickly became a crucible for punk rock and alternative music. It famously hosted The Sex Pistols' only Liverpool gig, alongside early performances by The Stranglers, The Runaways, and many others. Eric's was more than a club; it was a cultural movement, providing a platform for local talent and national punk icons alike.A Hub for Emerging Talent and Youth
Uniquely, Eric's operated on a membership basis, including a special provision for under-18s to attend matinee shows. This innovative approach allowed younger fans to experience live performances by groundbreaking bands such as The Clash, The Specials, and Big In Japan. The club's commitment to nurturing local musicians helped launch careers of influential Liverpool bands like Echo & the Bunnymen, Julian Cope, and Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark (OMD). The atmosphere was raw and authentic, with the club’s dark, underground setting fostering a close-knit community of music lovers.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Though the original club closed in 1980, Eric's legacy endures as a symbol of Liverpool's vibrant punk and post-punk scene. The venue’s walls were adorned with signatures from legendary artists, reflecting its status as a musical landmark. Stories such as Iggy Pop playing a birthday matinee and the intense gigs by The Clash highlight its unique place in music history. Eric’s influence extended beyond music, shaping Liverpool’s cultural identity and inspiring future generations of artists.Modern Revival and Live Music Scene
Today, Eric's continues as a lively live music venue and bar at 9 Mathew Street, opposite The Cavern Club. Open seven nights a week, it hosts a diverse range of live performances, from local emerging artists to touring bands, maintaining its alternative spirit. The venue offers an electric atmosphere with late-night hours, making it a cornerstone of Liverpool’s nightlife and a must-visit for music enthusiasts wanting to experience the city’s rich musical heritage firsthand.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Eric’s can expect an intimate, energetic setting steeped in history. The underground cellar vibe with its dark walls and vibrant crowd creates an immersive experience. The venue’s location in the iconic Cavern Quarter places it at the heart of Liverpool’s music culture, surrounded by other historic sites and lively bars. Whether attending a punk revival night or discovering new talent, Eric’s offers a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary music excitement.Enduring Influence and Community Role
Eric’s remains a vital part of Liverpool’s music ecosystem, supporting local artists and preserving the city’s punk heritage. Annual events, festivals, and ongoing live music programming ensure the club’s spirit lives on. Its story is intertwined with Liverpool’s identity as a city of musical innovation, making Eric’s not just a venue but a cultural institution cherished by locals and visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cilla Black
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Celebrate Liverpool’s beloved entertainer with the life-size bronze statue of Cilla Black on iconic Mathew Street, near the legendary Cavern Club.
Liverpool Beatles Museum
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Explore the largest authentic Beatles collection in Liverpool’s historic Mathew Street, celebrating the band’s legendary journey and legacy.
Coopers Building
0.2 km
Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
Liverpool Town Hall
0.3 km
Explore Liverpool Town Hall, a stunning Georgian masterpiece and historic civic venue at the heart of Liverpool’s cultural heritage.
1 Exchange Flags
0.3 km
Historic Liverpool landmark featuring WWII command bunker, elegant architecture, and a courtyard rich with maritime and mercantile heritage.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
0.4 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Oriel Chambers
0.4 km
Oriel Chambers: Liverpool’s revolutionary 1864 office building that pioneered the metal-framed glass curtain wall and modern skyscraper design.
Hargreaves Buildings
0.5 km
Victorian banking landmark preserving Liverpool's golden age of maritime commerce and financial power
Cotton Exchange Bldg Old Hall Street
0.5 km
Historic heart of Liverpool’s cotton trade, blending Edwardian grandeur with modern business life on Old Hall Street.
The Port Of Liverpool Building
0.5 km
The oldest of Liverpool’s Three Graces, this Edwardian Baroque masterpiece at Pier Head is a powerful symbol of the city’s golden age as a global port and a defining feature of its historic skyline.
Tithebarn Building
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A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
Cunard Building
0.5 km
A majestic waterfront landmark embodying Liverpool’s rich maritime history and Cunard’s legacy of luxury ocean travel.
Royal Liver Suite
0.6 km
Celebrate your special moments with panoramic Mersey views in Liverpool’s iconic Royal Liver Suite, blending heritage and elegance.
Liverbird Monument
0.6 km
Discover the Liverbird Monument, a majestic symbol of Liverpool's maritime heritage and cultural pride, in the heart of the city.
Royal Liver Building
0.6 km
Explore the Royal Liver Building, an iconic symbol of Liverpool's heritage, showcasing stunning architecture and rich maritime history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Mathew St
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Experience the legendary Mathew Street, Liverpool’s iconic music hub and birthplace of Beatlemania, alive with history, live music, and vibrant culture.
Cavern Club
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Experience the legendary Cavern Club, Liverpool’s iconic live music venue where The Beatles’ legacy lives on beneath the city’s historic arches.
Heaven Nightclub Liverpool
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A compact, late‑night gay club in Liverpool city centre offering high‑energy DJ nights, compact dancefloors and themed queer nightlife until the early hours.
John Lennon Statue - Mathew Street
0.1 km
Celebrate the legacy of John Lennon with this iconic statue on Liverpool’s legendary Mathew Street, the heart of Beatles history.
The Wall Of Fame - Mathew Street
0.1 km
Celebrate Liverpool’s legendary musicians on Mathew Street’s iconic Wall Of Fame, a tribute to the city’s unparalleled musical heritage.
Eleanor Rigby Statue
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A moving tribute to loneliness and legacy, the Eleanor Rigby Statue invites reflection beside Liverpool’s iconic Beatles landmark.
John Lennon Mural by Paul Curtis
0.1 km
A vibrant street art tribute to John Lennon’s legacy, celebrating Liverpool’s rich musical and artistic heritage.
Stanley St Gaay Quarter LGBT Bars And Clubs
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Liverpool’s compact Pride Quarter: Stanley Street’s cluster of LGBT+ bars, clubs and colourful street life at the heart of the city.
Everyman Liverpool
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Boutique cinema in Liverpool offering gourmet dining, cocktails, and vibrant events in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Metquarter Liverpool
0.1 km
Discover Liverpool’s stylish Metquarter, where luxury boutiques, curated shops, and vibrant dining create a sophisticated city centre shopping experience.
Shiverpool
0.2 km
Experience Liverpool’s haunted history with Shiverpool’s award-winning ghost tours blending thrills, laughs, and captivating storytelling.
Queen Victoria Monument
0.2 km
A grand neo-Baroque monument in Liverpool’s city center honoring Queen Victoria’s reign with rich allegorical sculptures and historic significance.
Quaker Alley Murals
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s Quaker Alley Murals, where vibrant street art celebrates the city’s rich history and dynamic cultural spirit in a colorful urban gallery.
Chavasse Park
0.3 km
A serene urban park at Liverpool ONE, renowned for festive cheer, community events, and a welcoming green escape in the city centre.
Derby Square
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Historic Derby Square in Liverpool blends medieval roots, iconic monuments, and vibrant city life in a captivating urban landmark.
Essential places to dine
Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
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Lively Caribbean dining and cocktails in Liverpool’s historic Produce Exchange, blending authentic flavors with vibrant island vibes.
Blakes Restaurant
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Experience British classics with a Beatles twist in Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Hotel restaurant.
Casa Italia
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A Liverpool institution since 1977, serving hearty pasta, wood-fired pizzas and classic Italian desserts in a lively, retro setting on Stanley Street.
Shiraz BBQ
0.1 km
Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean excellence with generous portions and unbeatable value in central Liverpool.
NYL Restaurant and Bar
0.1 km
Stylish American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's commercial heart, where upmarket meets approachable.
San Carlo - Liverpool
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian elegance and vibrant city dining at San Carlo Liverpool, where classic flavors meet stylish ambiance.
Bacaro
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Venetian small plates and authentic Italian flavors in the stylish heart of Liverpool’s Castle Street.
Castle St Townhouse
0.2 km
A stylish all-day dining venue in Liverpool’s historic heart, blending heritage charm with vibrant food, drinks, and social atmosphere.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Liverpool
0.2 km
Modern Italian dining and cocktails in the heart of Liverpool, with a stylish terrace and a unique vaulted private dining room for special occasions.
Las Iguanas - Liverpool
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Vibrant Latin American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's premier shopping destination.
Mowgli Street Food Water Street
0.3 km
Contemporary Indian street food in a vibrant, casual setting with bold flavors and communal sharing plates.
Smoke & Dough
0.3 km
Interactive BBQ dining in Liverpool One where you grill premium meats at your table, paired with vibrant cocktails and a lively city terrace.
Hawksmoor Liverpool
0.3 km
Experience premium British steaks and seafood in a stylish, lively Liverpool setting with exceptional service and classic flavors.
Cosy Club
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Stylish British dining with vintage charm and all-day menus in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant city center.
Dale Street Kitchen & bar by Shino
0.3 km
Award-winning breakfast and brunch spot in Liverpool’s city centre, celebrated for its full English and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
As Above So Below Emporium Ltd
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A darkly elegant witchy emporium in Liverpool’s historic Cavern Walks, blending mysticism, tarot, and alternative culture.
Cool Britannia
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Liverpool's vibrant gift shop packed with Britpop t-shirts, Beatles nods, and Cool Britannia souvenirs—your one-stop for cheeky, affordable UK mementos in the city center.
Cavern Walks - Shopping Centre
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Boutique shopping arcade in Liverpool's Beatles epicentre, linking stylish retail to Cavern Club legacy on vibrant Mathew Street.
The Gallery
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Discover Liverpool’s musical heritage and unique local crafts at The Gallery, your destination for Beatles memorabilia and authentic souvenirs.
Hard Days Night Shop
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Explore the heart of Beatles heritage with exclusive memorabilia and authentic merchandise at Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Shop.
House Of Gifts
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A fun-filled Liverpool novelty shop packed with souvenirs, local memorabilia, and quirky gifts for visitors and locals alike.
Scouse Bird Shop (inside Boutique 56 & online)
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Discover cheeky Liverpool gifts and local charm at Scouse Bird Shop, nestled inside the stylish Boutique 56 hotel on Stanley Street.
Menkind
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Discover quirky gadgets and imaginative gifts for men and boys at Menkind Liverpool, your go-to spot for unique presents in the city centre.
Liverpool Souvenirs and Gifts
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Discover unique Liverpool keepsakes and exceptional service at this friendly souvenir shop in the heart of the city.
Beats of Liverpool
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Discover authentic Liverpool memorabilia and Beatles-inspired souvenirs in the heart of the city’s historic Whitechapel district.
KENJI Liverpool ONE
0.3 km
Discover cute plushies, quirky gifts, and local makers in Liverpool ONE's playful arcade-gift haven—perfect for unique souvenirs and fun finds.
The Liverpool Gift Shop
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Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
LFC Official Club Store
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Discover authentic Liverpool FC merchandise and immerse yourself in the club’s vibrant spirit at the heart of Liverpool city centre.
Oliver Bonas
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Colourful, design-led fashion and homeware in Liverpool ONE — a boutique atmosphere for stylish gifts and everyday statement pieces.
Urban Outfitters
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Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion and eclectic homewares at Urban Outfitters Liverpool, a vibrant hub for style and culture in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rubber Soul
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Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife and Beatles heritage at Rubber Soul, a lively bar with three unique atmospheres and nightly live music.
Slug & Lettuce - Liverpool
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Liverpool's ultimate cocktail spot in a historic building—2-for-1 drinks, bottomless brunches, and three floors of festive vibes for groups and celebrations.
Ex-Directory
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Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
The Slaughter House
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Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
The Alchemist Liverpool
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Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
Brass Monkey
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Liverpool's quirky cocktail haven on School Lane, blending inventive drinks, British bites, and lively vibes from midday to late-night revelry.
The Bierkeller Liverpool
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Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
Present Company
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Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Motel Bar
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A moody, music-first Fleet Street dive bar famous for band-backed karaoke and late-night crowds in Liverpool city centre.
Be At One - Liverpool
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Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Kazimier Garden
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Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
Soho Bar Liverpool
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Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights out.
Pump House
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Experience the essence of Liverpool at the Pump House Pub, where British tradition meets modern dining in a stunning dockside location.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
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Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
The Jacaranda
0.7 km
Iconic Liverpool music venue where The Beatles began, blending historic charm with vibrant live performances and a vinyl café.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
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
