Ma Egerton's Stage Door: Liverpool's Historic Theatrical Pub
Step into Ma Egerton's Stage Door, Liverpool’s historic pub where theatrical legends gathered and timeless stories unfold in every corner.
Ma Egerton's Stage Door is a historic pub located at 9 Pudsey Street, Liverpool, famed for its rich theatrical heritage and connection to legendary performers. Established in 1846 and named after Mary Egerton, its longest-serving landlady and theatrical agent, the pub has welcomed stars like Frank Sinatra, Charlie Chaplin, and Judy Garland. Today, it offers a warm atmosphere with fine ales, rustic pizzas, and a glimpse into Liverpool's entertainment past.
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
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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 performers who frequented the pub.
- Visit on Monday nights for the quiz hosted by Tina Malone or enjoy the Friday sing-along piano sessions.
- Explore the lounge bar to see autographed photos of legendary stage and screen stars who made this pub their haunt.
- Experience the historic atmosphere by noting the original interwar paneling and vintage bell-pushes preserved inside.
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 10-15 minute walk along pedestrianized Pudsey Street leads directly to Ma Egerton's Stage Door. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for most travelers with no additional transport needed.
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Bus
Several city buses serve stops near Lime Street Station, including routes 10, 17, and 86. From the bus stop, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the pub. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3 for a single journey.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Liverpool locations typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5 to £10. The area is pedestrian-friendly, so drop-off is close to the pub entrance.
Ma Egerton's Stage Door 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 Ma Egerton's Stage Door
A Storied Past Rooted in Liverpool’s Entertainment Scene
Ma Egerton's Stage Door originated in 1846 as The Eagle, gaining its current name from Mary Egerton, a Dublin-born landlady who took over in the 1930s. Mary, affectionately known as 'Ma', was not only a pub owner but also a registered theatrical agent for the Variety Theatrical Association. Her tenure coincided with the heyday of Liverpool's Lime Street area, which rivaled London’s West End with its theatres, picture houses, and entertainment venues. The pub became a favored haunt for performers from the nearby Empire Theatre and other venues, hosting luminaries such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Sammy Davis Jr, Tom Jones, Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy, and Harry Houdini.Architectural Charm and Historic Features
The pub retains much of its interwar refitting, with two main rooms and a passageway featuring timber and leaded glass partitions. The public bar is lined with paneling and preserves its original counter, while the lounge bar offers fixed seating with leaded glazed panels and vintage bell-pushes. A sensitive 2012 refurbishment reinstated a Victorian-style fireplace and reupholstered seating, maintaining the pub’s historic character. Notably, Ma Egerton’s was the first UK pub to use a cash register, an innovation introduced by an American salesman who made his first sale here.Theatrical Legacy and Cultural Significance
Beyond its architectural and social history, Ma Egerton's played a unique role in local lore. Mary Egerton’s observations contributed to the conviction of Victorian mass murderer Dr Crippen. The pub’s close proximity to the Empire Theatre’s stage door earned it the added moniker ‘Stage Door’, emphasizing its role as a backstage hub for performers. Today, the walls of the lounge display autographed images of stage and screen legends, celebrating its ongoing connection to Liverpool’s vibrant theatrical culture.Contemporary Atmosphere and Offerings
Open daily from 11am to midnight, Ma Egerton’s offers a welcoming environment steeped in history. Its menu features fine ales, wines, and spirits alongside the famed Old Fashioned Pizza Shop, serving rustic homemade pizzas named after famous patrons. Evening entertainment includes a jukebox from 8pm, Monday quizzes hosted by local celebrities, and sing-along piano nights. The pub’s blend of historic ambiance with lively events creates a unique social space cherished by locals and visitors alike.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Pudsey Street, just behind Liverpool Lime Street Station, Ma Egerton's benefits from a pedestrianized street with an outside drinking area. Its location near major theatres and music venues continues to attract performers and audiences, preserving its role as a cultural landmark within Liverpool’s nightlife and entertainment districts.Legacy and Preservation
Despite challenges such as a brief closure in 2012 due to rising rents, Ma Egerton’s has been preserved as a Liverpool icon through careful stewardship. Its enduring appeal lies in the seamless blend of theatrical heritage, architectural charm, and vibrant contemporary culture, making it a living testament to the city’s rich entertainment history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Festival / Event Nearby
- 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
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
