The Pen Factory: Industrial-Chic Bistro Bar on Hope Street, Liverpool
Industrial-chic bistro bar on Liverpool’s Hope Street with seasonal small plates, lively atmosphere, and a popular beer garden.
Nestled beneath Liverpool's vibrant Hope Street, The Pen Factory is an industrial-chic bistro bar known for its lively atmosphere, seasonal small plates, and a popular beer garden. With exposed brickwork, long wooden tables, and a relaxed yet buzzy vibe, it offers a blend of casual dining and social drinking. The menu features diverse, flavourful dishes including seafood and comfort food, complemented by a well-curated drinks selection. Its unique basement setting and regular events make it a notable spot in Liverpool's dining scene.
A brief summary to The Pen Factory
- 13 Hope St, Liverpool, L1 9BQ, GB
- +441517097887
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
Local tips
- Reserve a table in advance, especially for evenings and weekends, to ensure prompt seating.
- Visit during jazz or chess nights for a unique blend of live music and social atmosphere.
- Try the seasonal small plates like whitebait with saffron aioli or herb-crusted cod for a flavourful experience.
- Enjoy the beer garden during sunny weather for a relaxing outdoor social space.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
The Pen Factory location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Pen Factory
A Distinctive Venue with Industrial Charm
The Pen Factory is tucked away beneath the bustling Hope Street in Liverpool, occupying a basement space that exudes an industrial-chic aesthetic. Exposed brick walls, visible ducting, and long wooden communal tables create a raw yet inviting atmosphere. The design balances rustic and modern elements, giving the venue a unique character that appeals to both casual visitors and those seeking a stylish night out. Its layout includes an open-plan kitchen that adds a theatrical element to dining, allowing guests to watch chefs at work.Seasonal Small Plates and Diverse Flavours
The Pen Factory’s menu focuses on seasonal small plates designed for sharing, with an emphasis on fresh, vibrant ingredients. Popular dishes include herb-crusted cod, mussels, Caribbean lamb curry, and Spanish chip butty, alongside lighter options such as whitebait with saffron aioli. The food is known for its bold flavours and creative combinations, often described as comfort food with a twist. While portion sizes can be modest, the quality and taste consistently draw praise, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy tasting a variety of dishes in one sitting.A Lively Social Hub with a Popular Beer Garden
Beyond its culinary offerings, The Pen Factory is celebrated for its lively and friendly atmosphere. The basement bar buzzes with energy, especially during jazz and chess nights, which add a cultural layer to the experience. Its beer garden is a standout feature—a quiet oasis perfect for socializing on sunny days, offering a relaxed outdoor space amidst the city. The venue is dog-friendly, welcoming a diverse crowd from locals to visitors, and is well-regarded for its attentive, skilled staff.Events and Entertainment Enhancing the Experience
Regular events such as jazz nights and themed gatherings contribute to The Pen Factory’s vibrant ambiance. These occasions blend music, socializing, and dining into a memorable experience. The venue’s flexible vibe suits both after-work drinks and casual dinners, with the open kitchen and bar area fostering a sense of community. While it can get lively and occasionally loud during peak times, this energy is part of its charm, attracting those who enjoy a dynamic night out.Challenges and Changes in Recent Years
Though The Pen Factory has a strong reputation, recent management changes have led to mixed experiences. Some patrons have noted inconsistencies in food quality and service speed, especially during busy periods. Despite these challenges, the venue maintains a loyal following who appreciate its atmosphere and culinary creativity. Efforts continue to restore and enhance its former glory, ensuring it remains a key player in Liverpool’s dining and nightlife scene.Location and Accessibility in Liverpool’s Cultural Heart
Situated on Hope Street, The Pen Factory benefits from its proximity to Liverpool’s theaters, galleries, and cultural landmarks. This central location makes it a convenient stop for pre- or post-show dining and drinks. The venue’s basement setting provides a cozy retreat from the street’s hustle, while its beer garden offers an unexpected outdoor escape. Its accessibility and welcoming vibe make it suitable for a wide range of visitors, from solo diners to groups celebrating special occasions.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Christmace Truce Memorial Statue - St Luke's Church
0.4 km
A powerful tribute to the 1914 Christmas Truce, set within Liverpool’s evocative Bombed Out Church, symbolizing peace and unity amid war.
St Luke’s Bombed Out Church
0.4 km
A roofless Gothic memorial where wartime tragedy transformed into cultural renaissance and timeless celebration.
Chinese Arch
0.6 km
Europe’s tallest Chinese ceremonial arch, a vibrant gateway to Liverpool’s historic Chinatown and symbol of enduring cultural ties with Shanghai.
Huskisson Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn mausoleum in Liverpool honoring William Huskisson, the first prominent victim of a railway accident and a figure of complex historical legacy.
William Brown St
1.0 km
Explore Liverpool's rich maritime history, vibrant culture, and iconic music scene in this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Coopers Building
1.0 km
Discover Coopers Building, a striking early 20th-century landmark that enriches Liverpool’s historic Church Street with timeless architectural charm.
For All Liverpool's Liver Birds (Wings) by Paul Curtis
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant artwork 'For All Liverpool's Liver Birds (Wings)' by Paul Curtis, a celebration of Liverpool's maritime heritage and cultural identity.
Nordic Church and Cultural Centre
1.1 km
Discover the beauty and cultural richness of the Gustav Adolf Scandinavian Church in Liverpool, a serene hub celebrating Nordic traditions.
Evolution of Man Mural by Paul Curtis
1.1 km
Discover the Evolution of Man Mural in Liverpool, a stunning street art piece that captures the journey of humanity through vibrant colors and intricate details.
World Museum
1.1 km
Explore the World Museum in Liverpool, where history, science, and culture come alive through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences for all ages.
Hillsborough Memorial
1.1 km
Explore the Hillsborough Memorial in Liverpool, a poignant tribute to resilience and remembrance dedicated to the 96 victims of the Hillsborough disaster.
Red Brick Market Liverpool
1.2 km
Discover the eclectic charm of Red Brick Market in Liverpool, a hub for local crafts, delicious street food, and vibrant community events.
Viewing window to the Old Dock
1.2 km
Step through a glass window into the world’s first commercial wet dock, the birthplace of Liverpool’s global maritime legacy.
Baltic Market
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Baltic Market, Liverpool's premier food court offering diverse flavors in a lively atmosphere.
Eleanor Rigby Statue
1.2 km
Discover the Eleanor Rigby Statue in Liverpool, a heartfelt tribute to music's timeless themes of love and loneliness amidst the city's vibrant culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Liverpool Masonic Hall
0.1 km
Historic Liverpool Masonic Hall on Hope Street: A majestic hub of Freemasonry and culture blending tradition with vibrant community life.
Knowledge Quarter
0.1 km
Liverpool’s dynamic Knowledge Quarter: a vibrant innovation district blending science, culture, historic landmarks, and lively student life in the city centre.
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
0.1 km
Historic Grade I-listed pub on Hope Street offering classic British dishes, exquisite Victorian-Baroque interiors, and a warm Liverpool welcome.
Royal Liverpool Philharmonic
0.2 km
Experience world-class music and stunning Art Deco elegance at Liverpool’s iconic Royal Philharmonic Hall on Hope Street.
Mount Pleasant
0.2 km
A historic city-centre street blending Victorian architecture, academic life and civic institutions in the heart of Liverpool.
William MacKenzie's Tomb
0.2 km
A towering granite pyramid on Rodney Street, this tomb blends Victorian grandeur with ghostly legends of a gambler’s eternal wager.
Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, a must-visit spiritual landmark in the heart of the city.
Unity Theatre
0.3 km
Historic and vibrant political theatre in Liverpool offering intimate performances and a strong community spirit since 1936.
Ye Cracke
0.3 km
Historic Liverpool pub famed for its Beatles connections, cozy multi-room layout, and traditional cask ales in the heart of the Georgian Quarter.
Blackburne House
0.3 km
Historic Georgian landmark in Liverpool, pioneering girls’ education and women’s empowerment since 1844.
"A Case History" by John King
0.3 km
Stacked concrete suitcases honoring Liverpool's legendary citizens on Hope Street's historic Georgian pavements.
Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts
0.4 km
A historic Grade II listed performing arts university in Liverpool, founded by Paul McCartney, blending rich heritage with cutting-edge creative education.
Victoria Gallery & Museum
0.4 km
Explore Liverpool’s iconic redbrick university gallery blending historic art, science collections, and architectural grandeur in a vibrant cultural hub.
Georgian Quarter
0.5 km
Historic elegance meets vibrant culture in Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter, a charming neighborhood of classic architecture and creative spirit.
Pop Boutique
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Pop Boutique, Liverpool’s vintage clothing gem on Bold Street.
Essential places to dine
The Art School Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant fine dining in a stunning Victorian setting near Hope Street, blending local ingredients with artistic culinary flair.
The London Carriage Works
0.2 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Liverpool’s boutique Hope Street Hotel dining gem.
Roski Restaurant
0.3 km
An intimate Modern British dining experience in Liverpool, blending MasterChef-winning creativity with seasonal elegance and warm hospitality.
The Quarter
0.3 km
Vibrant Mediterranean dining with fresh Italian flavours in Liverpool’s historic Georgian Quarter, open daily till late.
Maray Bold Street
0.5 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern small plates with bold flavours and plant-based options in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street.
The Italian Club
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street at The Italian Club.
Cowshed Liverpool
0.5 km
A cozy, intimate steakhouse in Liverpool’s city centre, serving expertly cooked beef with attentive service and a unique historic setting.
Mowgli Street Food Bold Street
0.5 km
Experience authentic Indian street food bursting with bold flavors in a lively Liverpool setting on Bold Street.
Chamber 36 City Centre
0.5 km
Discover vibrant Pan-Asian flavors and crafted cocktails in a serene, stylish setting at Liverpool’s Chamber 36 City Centre.
La Finca Eivissa
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Ibiza with fusion tapas, cocktails, and live DJs in the heart of Liverpool city centre.
Greek Taverna Bold Street
0.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine and vibrant Mediterranean hospitality in the heart of Liverpool’s Bold Street.
Alma De Cuba
0.6 km
Experience vibrant Cuban culture and cuisine in Liverpool’s stunning former St Peters Church, blending historic charm with lively dining and entertainment.
Shiraz Palace
0.7 km
Lively Mediterranean bistro in Liverpool famed for generous grilled meats, vibrant breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Almost Famous Liverpool
0.7 km
Big, messy burgers and loud, fun vibes in a graffiti-covered diner on Liverpool’s Parr Street.
Wreck Bistro
0.7 km
A warm, inventive British bistro in Liverpool’s Ropewalks, blending seasonal ingredients with creative flair in a relaxed, inviting setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
69A
0.4 km
Discover unique antiques and vintage treasures in Liverpool’s vibrant Renshaw Street at 69A, where history meets style.
The Hippy Hole
0.5 km
Discover handmade tie-dye fashion and bohemian treasures bursting with color and spirit on Liverpool’s vibrant Bold Street.
Shared Earth
0.5 km
Discover unique, sustainable gifts at Shared Earth, Liverpool’s hub for fair trade treasures and ethical craftsmanship.
Utility Gift Store
0.6 km
Quirky gifts and unique designs on Liverpool's Bold Street – your indie haven for Moomin magic, scented candles, and cards that say it best. Dog-friendly delight.
Liverpool Cathedral Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts and spiritual treasures at Liverpool Cathedral Shop, supporting heritage and community within Britain’s largest cathedral.
Resurrection
0.7 km
Liverpool's legendary streetwear haven: vintage roots, branded edge, tattoos, barber, records, and café vibes on bohemian Bold Street.
COW Liverpool
0.7 km
A compact Bold Street vintage haven where curated retro clothes, approachable staff and frequent one-off finds reward close, unhurried browsing.
Beat That
0.7 km
Unearth retro gems at Beat That, Liverpool's quirky vintage haven on Concert Street, blending punk edge with timeless thrift treasures in the Ropewalks buzz.
Bleu Prints
0.8 km
Stylish clothing boutique in Liverpool's vibrant L1, curating unique apparel and accessories for fashion-forward urban explorers.
Rebellious Fashion
0.9 km
Discover trendy, affordable women's fashion in Liverpool’s vibrant Houghton Street boutique with extended weekday hours and a youthful style vibe.
F&G Discounts
0.9 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at F&G Discounts, the ultimate gift shop in St. John's Precinct, Liverpool.
Gift Insanity
1.0 km
Discover Liverpool’s most delightful gift shop, where quirky and unique treasures await every occasion on St James Street.
The Liverpool Gift Shop
1.0 km
Discover authentic Liverpool souvenirs and memorabilia in the heart of Williamson Square, open daily for all fans and visitors.
LFC Official Club Store
1.0 km
Discover authentic Liverpool FC merchandise and immerse yourself in the club’s vibrant spirit at the heart of Liverpool city centre.
Utility
1.1 km
Independent Liverpool gift shop specialising in quirky, design-led presents, cards and small homewares with a friendly, well-curated atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Pen Factory
0.0 km
Industrial-chic bistro bar on Liverpool’s Hope Street with seasonal small plates, lively atmosphere, and a popular beer garden.
Liverpool Arts Bar
0.0 km
A vibrant creative hub in a historic Masonic Hall, blending local art, live performances, and crafted drinks on Liverpool’s iconic Hope Street.
The Font
0.1 km
A lively Liverpool bar famed for cheap cocktails, homemade burgers, and a welcoming atmosphere since 2001.
Red Door
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar on Berry Street offering expertly crafted drinks, vibrant music, and a buzzing rooftop atmosphere in the heart of Liverpool.
The Oracle
0.5 km
Liverpool's secret speakeasy where cocktails meet close-up magic—buzz in for illusions, tarot, and vintage vibes that defy reality.
Salt Dog Slim's
0.5 km
Liverpool's dive bar legend: world beers, fiery cocktails, chili dogs, and secret speakeasy vibes on Seel Street.
Berry and Rye
0.5 km
Knock to uncover Liverpool's speakeasy soul: jazz-infused cocktails, whiskey whispers, and Prohibition magic behind Berry Street's black door.
Bar Bodega
0.5 km
Liverpool's underground disco den: Ibizan house beats in a brick cellar nightclub, pulsing late into the night with cocktails and private party vibes.
MOLOKO
0.6 km
A music-led cocktail bar in the Old Stables with a beer garden, late DJs and an over-25s disco energy for evening socialising.
The Lime Kiln - JD Wetherspoon
0.7 km
Affordable ales and hearty meals in a historic warehouse pub at the pulse of Liverpool's nightlife district—daytime calm meets evening energy.
Soho Bar Liverpool
0.7 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.
Be At One - Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's cocktail epicenter: 100+ mixes, 2-for-1 happy hours, and masterclass shakes in a chic Seel Street hotspot.
Motel Bar
0.8 km
A moody, music-first Fleet Street dive bar famous for band-backed karaoke and late-night crowds in Liverpool city centre.
Present Company
0.9 km
Intimate Liverpool cocktail bar blending expert drinks, music culture, and warm hospitality in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Blue Angel Nightclub
0.5 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Pure Nightlounge
0.6 km
Liverpool’s boutique R&B nightspot with VIP booths, tight dancefloor energy and a late-night, fashion-forward vibe.
Cool It
0.6 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
Heebie Jeebies
0.6 km
Liverpool's eclectic nightlife heart: multi-level bar, live music basement, courtyard hangs, and anthemic nights until dawn on Seel Street.
Ink Bar Liverpool
0.6 km
Liverpool's premier R&B and house nightclub, where stylish cocktails, thumping beats, and luxury vibes fuel unforgettable nights on Wood Street.
EBGBS
0.6 km
Liverpool's gritty basement nightclub where live indie gigs, craft cocktails, and underground vibes fuel epic nights until 4am in the heart of Seel Street.
BrooklynMixer
0.6 km
Liverpool's original R&B haven on Seel Street: three floors of hip-hop beats, craft cocktails, leather lounges, and private party vibes from dusk till dawn.
Aura
0.6 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
0.7 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.
Modo, Liverpool
0.7 km
Liverpool's Concert Square legend: multi-room nightclub with cocktails, sports screens, heated terrace, and epic party spaces for every vibe.
LEVEL Nightclub Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool’s expansive multi-floor nightclub offering diverse music, VIP areas, and a buzzing party atmosphere in the heart of Ropewalks.
ELECTRIK WAREHOUSE
0.8 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.
Popworld - Liverpool
0.8 km
Liverpool's ultimate cheesy pop haven: 90s bangers, cheap drinks, and dance-'til-dawn vibes in the heart of Ropewalks.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
1.2 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
Playground Liverpool
1.3 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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