Ex-Directory: Liverpool’s Quirky Speakeasy Cocktail Bar
Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
Ex-Directory is a stylish and quirky cocktail bar located at 8 Vernon Street in Liverpool’s vibrant L2 district. Known for its unique atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails, and carefully curated music, this hidden gem offers an intimate speakeasy vibe that appeals to cocktail aficionados and nightlife lovers alike. The bar’s creative drink menu features standout options like the Porn Star Martini, making it a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated yet fun night out.
A brief summary to Ex-Directory
- 8 Vernon St, Liverpool, L2 2AY, GB
- +441512274747
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Try the Porn Star Martini, a signature cocktail that exemplifies the bar’s creative mixology.
- Visit on weekdays or earlier evenings to enjoy a more intimate atmosphere with less crowd.
- Reserve a table in advance if planning to visit on weekends, as the bar can get busy.
- Enjoy the curated music playlist that complements the bar’s stylish and quirky vibe.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Ex-Directory location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ex-Directory
A Hidden Gem in Liverpool’s Nightlife Scene
Tucked away on Vernon Street, Ex-Directory is a standout cocktail bar that embodies the spirit of a modern speakeasy. Its discreet entrance and intimate interior create an exclusive yet welcoming environment, perfect for those who appreciate a refined night out. The venue’s quirky charm is evident in its eclectic decor and atmospheric lighting, which combine to form a unique backdrop for socializing and relaxation.Craftsmanship Behind the Bar
Ex-Directory’s cocktail menu is a highlight, featuring a range of innovative and classic drinks made with precision and flair. Signature cocktails like the Porn Star Martini have garnered particular praise, showcasing the bartenders’ expertise and creativity. The bar’s focus on quality ingredients and presentation elevates the drinking experience, appealing to both cocktail connoisseurs and casual visitors.Music and Ambience
Music plays a central role in shaping the bar’s lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. Carefully selected tracks complement the setting, enhancing the overall sensory experience without overpowering conversation. This balance of sound and style makes Ex-Directory a favored spot for those who enjoy great drinks paired with an engaging soundtrack.Location and Surroundings
Situated in Liverpool’s bustling L2 area, Ex-Directory benefits from its proximity to other nightlife venues and cultural hotspots. The neighborhood’s energetic vibe adds to the bar’s appeal, making it an excellent choice for an evening out in the city. Despite being in a lively district, the bar maintains a cozy, tucked-away feel that invites guests to linger and savor their drinks.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
While the bar is praised for its ambiance and drink quality, it is considered to be on the pricier side, reflecting its premium offerings and central location. The intimate setting means that the venue can feel busy during peak hours, so planning visits during quieter times might enhance the experience. The staff’s professionalism and attention to detail ensure a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.Distinctive Character and Legacy
Ex-Directory stands out in Liverpool’s bar scene for its blend of quirky style, quality cocktails, and musical curation. It represents a modern take on the speakeasy concept, combining exclusivity with approachability. This bar continues to attract a diverse crowd, from locals to visitors, all drawn by its unique character and consistently high standards.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Liverpool Beatles Museum
0.3 km
Explore the largest authentic Beatles collection in Liverpool’s historic Mathew Street, celebrating the band’s legendary journey and legacy.
Cilla Black
0.3 km
Celebrate Liverpool’s beloved entertainer with the life-size bronze statue of Cilla Black on iconic Mathew Street, near the legendary Cavern Club.
Tithebarn Building
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A modern office landmark on Liverpool’s historic Tithebarn Street, bridging medieval heritage and today’s Knowledge Quarter.
1 Exchange Flags
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Historic Liverpool landmark featuring WWII command bunker, elegant architecture, and a courtyard rich with maritime and mercantile heritage.
Liverpool Town Hall
0.3 km
Georgian grandeur meets civic ceremony in Liverpool's most magnificent 18th-century building.
Cotton Exchange Bldg Old Hall Street
0.4 km
Historic heart of Liverpool’s cotton trade, blending Edwardian grandeur with modern business life on Old Hall Street.
Oriel Chambers
0.5 km
Oriel Chambers: Liverpool’s revolutionary 1864 office building that pioneered the metal-framed glass curtain wall and modern skyscraper design.
Coopers Building
0.5 km
Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
Hargreaves Buildings
0.5 km
Victorian banking landmark preserving Liverpool's golden age of maritime commerce and financial power
Viewing window to the Old Dock
0.6 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
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.
Cunard Building
0.7 km
A majestic waterfront landmark embodying Liverpool’s rich maritime history and Cunard’s legacy of luxury ocean travel.
Liverbird Monument
0.7 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
0.7 km
Explore the Royal Liver Building, an iconic symbol of Liverpool's heritage, showcasing stunning architecture and rich maritime history.
The Port Of Liverpool Building
0.7 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Everyman Liverpool
0.2 km
Boutique cinema in Liverpool offering gourmet dining, cocktails, and vibrant events in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Quaker Alley Murals
0.2 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.
Heaven Nightclub Liverpool
0.2 km
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.
Eleanor Rigby Statue
0.2 km
A moving tribute to loneliness and legacy, the Eleanor Rigby Statue invites reflection beside Liverpool’s iconic Beatles landmark.
Eric's Liverpool
0.3 km
Historic punk club and vibrant live music venue on Mathew Street, where Liverpool’s musical legends were born and continue to thrive.
Mathew St
0.3 km
Experience the legendary Mathew Street, Liverpool’s iconic music hub and birthplace of Beatlemania, alive with history, live music, and vibrant culture.
The Wall Of Fame - Mathew Street
0.3 km
Celebrate Liverpool’s legendary musicians on Mathew Street’s iconic Wall Of Fame, a tribute to the city’s unparalleled musical heritage.
Cavern Club
0.3 km
Experience the legendary Cavern Club, Liverpool’s iconic live music venue where The Beatles’ legacy lives on beneath the city’s historic arches.
John Lennon Statue - Mathew Street
0.3 km
Celebrate the legacy of John Lennon with this iconic statue on Liverpool’s legendary Mathew Street, the heart of Beatles history.
Metquarter Liverpool
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s stylish Metquarter, where luxury boutiques, curated shops, and vibrant dining create a sophisticated city centre shopping experience.
Nelson Monument
0.3 km
Liverpool’s Nelson Monument: A neo-classical tribute capturing Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and legacy in the heart of the city’s maritime heritage.
Exchange Flags
0.3 km
Historic Liverpool complex blending WWII heritage, mercantile legacy, and vibrant social spaces in a grand U-shaped architectural landmark.
John Lennon Mural by Paul Curtis
0.3 km
A vibrant street art tribute to John Lennon’s legacy, celebrating Liverpool’s rich musical and artistic heritage.
Hillsborough Memorial
0.4 km
A powerful tribute in Liverpool honoring the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster, symbolizing community resilience and the quest for justice.
Williamson Square
0.4 km
Discover Liverpool’s lively Williamson Square, where historic theatre meets vibrant city life in a welcoming urban oasis.
Essential places to dine
Dale Street Kitchen & bar by Shino
0.1 km
Award-winning breakfast and brunch spot in Liverpool’s city centre, celebrated for its full English and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
NYL Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Stylish American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's commercial heart, where upmarket meets approachable.
Casa Italia
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Charcoal-grilled Mediterranean excellence with generous portions and unbeatable value in central Liverpool.
Turtle Bay Liverpool Victoria St
0.2 km
Lively Caribbean dining and cocktails in Liverpool’s historic Produce Exchange, blending authentic flavors with vibrant island vibes.
Blakes Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience British classics with a Beatles twist in Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Hotel restaurant.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Liverpool
0.3 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.
Castle St Townhouse
0.3 km
A stylish all-day dining venue in Liverpool’s historic heart, blending heritage charm with vibrant food, drinks, and social atmosphere.
San Carlo - Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian elegance and vibrant city dining at San Carlo Liverpool, where classic flavors meet stylish ambiance.
Mowgli Street Food Water Street
0.4 km
Contemporary Indian street food in a vibrant, casual setting with bold flavors and communal sharing plates.
Bacaro
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Venetian small plates and authentic Italian flavors in the stylish heart of Liverpool’s Castle Street.
Hawksmoor Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience premium British steaks and seafood in a stylish, lively Liverpool setting with exceptional service and classic flavors.
Las Iguanas - Liverpool
0.5 km
Vibrant Latin American dining and cocktails in Liverpool's premier shopping destination.
Meet Argentinian Restaurant
0.5 km
Premium Argentine beef grilled over open flames in Liverpool's most authentic steakhouse since 2006.
OH ME OH MY
0.5 km
Historic waterfront tea house with rooftop views, afternoon tea, and elegant events space.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
As Above So Below Emporium Ltd
0.3 km
A darkly elegant witchy emporium in Liverpool’s historic Cavern Walks, blending mysticism, tarot, and alternative culture.
Cool Britannia
0.3 km
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.
The Gallery
0.3 km
Discover Liverpool’s musical heritage and unique local crafts at The Gallery, your destination for Beatles memorabilia and authentic souvenirs.
Beats of Liverpool
0.3 km
Discover authentic Liverpool memorabilia and Beatles-inspired souvenirs in the heart of the city’s historic Whitechapel district.
Scouse Bird Shop (inside Boutique 56 & online)
0.3 km
Discover cheeky Liverpool gifts and local charm at Scouse Bird Shop, nestled inside the stylish Boutique 56 hotel on Stanley Street.
Hard Days Night Shop
0.3 km
Explore the heart of Beatles heritage with exclusive memorabilia and authentic merchandise at Liverpool’s iconic Hard Days Night Shop.
Cavern Walks - Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Boutique shopping arcade in Liverpool's Beatles epicentre, linking stylish retail to Cavern Club legacy on vibrant Mathew Street.
Liverpool Souvenirs and Gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique Liverpool keepsakes and exceptional service at this friendly souvenir shop in the heart of the city.
House Of Gifts
0.4 km
A fun-filled Liverpool novelty shop packed with souvenirs, local memorabilia, and quirky gifts for visitors and locals alike.
LFC Official Club Store
0.4 km
Discover authentic Liverpool FC merchandise and immerse yourself in the club’s vibrant spirit at the heart of Liverpool city centre.
The Liverpool Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
Menkind
0.4 km
Discover quirky gadgets and imaginative gifts for men and boys at Menkind Liverpool, your go-to spot for unique presents in the city centre.
F&G Discounts
0.5 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at F&G Discounts, the ultimate gift shop in St. John's Precinct, Liverpool.
Rebellious Fashion
0.5 km
Discover trendy, affordable women's fashion in Liverpool’s vibrant Houghton Street boutique with extended weekday hours and a youthful style vibe.
KENJI Liverpool ONE
0.5 km
Discover cute plushies, quirky gifts, and local makers in Liverpool ONE's playful arcade-gift haven—perfect for unique souvenirs and fun finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ex-Directory
0.0 km
Discover Liverpool’s hidden speakeasy with quirky charm, expertly crafted cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere on Vernon Street.
Rubber Soul
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
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.
The Alchemist Liverpool
0.4 km
Experience Liverpool’s premier cocktail bar where molecular mixology meets bold flavors and vibrant city vibes.
The Slaughter House
0.4 km
Historic Liverpool pub blending hearty gastropub fare with lively live music and comedy in a warm, rustic setting.
Brass Monkey
0.6 km
Liverpool's quirky cocktail haven on School Lane, blending inventive drinks, British bites, and lively vibes from midday to late-night revelry.
Present Company
0.6 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Bierkeller Liverpool
0.6 km
Experience the ultimate Bavarian beer hall vibe in Liverpool with giant steins, live Oompah bands, and a lively party atmosphere.
Motel Bar
0.7 km
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
0.7 km
Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Soho Bar Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's neon-charged party hub in Concert Square: cocktails by day, club beats by night, perfect for epic nights out.
Kazimier Garden
0.8 km
Liverpool's original garden bar: quirky outdoor oasis with craft brews, live gigs, and fairy-lit magic in the heart of Ropewalks.
Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six
0.8 km
Experience immersive cocktails and themed nights at Alcotraz Liverpool: Cell Block Three-Six, a unique cocktail bar that offers an unforgettable night out.
Moonshine Saloon Liverpool
0.8 km
Step into Liverpool’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure blending live theatre, bespoke drinks, and interactive fun.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.8 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Elysium Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife with dynamic DJ events and an energetic atmosphere at Elysium Nightclub, open late on weekends.
GBar Liverpool
0.2 km
Liverpool's legendary late-night gay club: pop upstairs, bass downstairs, dancing till dawn on Eberle Street's vibrant strip.
Mansion Nightclub
0.2 km
Liverpool’s vibrant nightclub with the UK’s largest LED ceiling, laser shows, and a dynamic party atmosphere in the city centre.
XOXO Nightclub Liverpool
0.2 km
Dive into Liverpool's electric basement beats at XOXO Nightclub, where diverse DJs and immersive vibes craft unforgettable weekends from 10pm till dawn.
Mambo Club Liverpool
0.2 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Mambo Club, where electrifying music and lively crowds create unforgettable Saturday nights.
Flares - Liverpool
0.3 km
Experience Liverpool’s vibrant nightlife at Flares on Mathew Street, where great cocktails and unbeatable party vibes meet iconic music heritage.
Popworld - Liverpool
0.6 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.7 km
Liverpool's multi-floor warehouse nightclub: three dance floors of dance, RnB, indie, and chart hits in quirky industrial surrounds, open Thu-Sat till 4am.
Playground Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool's luxury nightclub haven in the Hilton, pulsing with upscale beats by the Mersey waterfront – exclusive nights await in the heart of the city.
LEVEL Nightclub Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
Modo, Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's Concert Square legend: multi-room nightclub with cocktails, sports screens, heated terrace, and epic party spaces for every vibe.
Concert Square Bars And Clubs Liverpool
0.8 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Liverpool at Concert Square Bars and Clubs, where diverse bars and clubs create an unforgettable experience.
Aura
0.8 km
Dive into Liverpool's pulsating beats at Aura Nightclub, where Afrobeats and R&B fuel intimate, high-energy nights in Ropewalks' vibrant core.
Baa Bar Liverpool
0.8 km
Two floors of house and R&B beats, £2 shooters, and courtyard vibes in Liverpool's nightlife epicenter—perfect for students and party-hoppers alike.
Ink Bar Liverpool
0.9 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adult Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
