Liverpool - Part 1

Liverpool is the uncelebrated birthplace of the modern British pub, but why?

In this episode we look at the circumstances that created the need for two distinct styles of pubs in Liverpool, and talk to local brewers Julie and Les O'Grady of Neptune Brewery about the brewing history of the city, and how they've seen it change.

When the Beer House license was introduced in England there was a rush to open up this new type of drinking establishment that could serve only beer, except in Liverpool where nobody really was that interested. The transient population were more keen on their spirits and fortified wines which needed to be fully licensed premises to serve them. 
Ornate and grandiose pubs sprung up to cater for the merchants and the captains in this port city, but also wide, open plan bars with long serving areas and vertical drinking shelves catered for the high, and fast turnover of the sailors and dock workers.

Out of this can the first real example of the managed pub estate, much to the chargrin of the Licensed Victuallers Association who did what they could to stop it spreading.