Liverpool is known for its variety of shops, restaurants and pubs that attract not just locals, but visitors from far and wide.
Many of our city’s adored businesses have been around for decades - some even centuries. They’re such an iconic part of Liverpool life that it’s hard to imagine them no longer existing.
Below is a selection of the oldest shops, restaurants and pubs in Liverpool that our city wouldn’t be the same without. Be sure to let us know in the comments section below which oldest business is your favourite.
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Casa Italia
Many Liverpool families will name Casa Italia as their go-to restaurant. Located in the city centre, the eatery has been serving generations of families having been open for nearly five decades.
Based on Stanley Street, Casa Italia first opened in 1976 and is known for its delicious traditional pizza and pasta dishes. Hungry customers are often seen queuing outside the family-run restaurant’s door.
Boodles
Founded in 1798, Boodles is the oldest independent jewellery store in Liverpool. The store has been serving our city for over 200 years, with the stunning Boodles House located on the corner of Lord Street.
Whether you’re after a present for a special someone, the perfect engagement ring, or just a bit of bling for yourself, Boodles has you covered. The jeweller offers an extensive range of bespoke pieces, so it’s no surprise that it continues to be the go-to destination for luxury rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more.
The Swan Inn
Established in 1898, The Swan Inn is one of the oldest pubs in Liverpool. Visiting the three-floor establishment for a drink is like stepping back in time, with the wooden pews inside dating back to the Blitz and are believed to have been taken from the Bombed Out Church. The Swan Inn became a bikers' pub in the 1960s and has been popular with rock and metal fans ever since.
W J Edwards Jewellers
Another jewellery store that has more than 100 years of experience is the family-run W J Edwards in Old Swan. Founded in 1918, the business offers a pawnbroking service and sells new and second-hand jewellery. W J Edwards is the go-to destination for many locals who are looking for a special piece for themselves or to give as a gift.
Yuet Ben
Yuet Ben opened on Great George Street in 1968 and has remained popular for decades. It's a favourite among locals for its extensive choice of Northern Chinese dishes. Founder Yuh Ho Yau was born in Shandong and worked in restaurants in Beijing, Hong Kong and New York before settling in Liverpool.
Andrew Collinge
Andrew Collinge has been creating gorgeous hairdos for over 80 years. The salon is another Liverpool success story, with the first opening in West Derby in 1940.
Despite the emergence of many hair salons across our city, Andrew Collinge continues to thrive, with the expert hairdressers also passing on their knowledge by training the next generation. The company has salons across the North West, with the current flagship Liverpool store being based on Castle Street.
Ye Cracke
The quaint Ye Cracke pub tucked away on Rice Street is said to have served drinks since 1825. The venue offers a variety of beers, wines and spirits, and is well-known for being John Lennon's favourite place for a tipple or two. As well as locals, the pub is particularly popular with Beatles fans who travel to Liverpool from across the globe.
TJ Hughes
Department store TJ Hughes emerged from Liverpool, offering shoppers everything from home furnishings to clothing and beauty all under one roof. The company sadly went from having over 50 stores across the UK to just six in 2011 after going into administration.
One of those remaining department stores is right here in Liverpool. Although TJ Hughes has changed buildings since it first opened on in the city on London Road in 1912, the brand has remained in Liverpool for over 100 years.
The Musical Box
Liverpool’s oldest vinyl shop, The Musical Box, was founded in 1947 and has survived the threat CDs, iPods and MP3 players once posed to the music industry. Based on West Derby Road, the store has rows upon rows of vinyls covering a variety of genres. It’s easy to get lost in the music and spend hours browsing The Musical Box’s collections.
Maranto's
Italian-American restaurant Maranto's opened on Lark Lane in 1983. The family who run the restaurant have kept the feel of the Victorian Grade II-listed building by using genuine architectural pieces to decorate, including cast iron from railway stations and antique Tiffany lamps. Customers can tuck into burgers, pizza and more, and enjoy the balcony bar.
Adam's Apple
Another adored family-run business in Liverpool is Adam’s Apple. The greengrocers opened in Maghull in 1969 and offers locals fresh fruit and veg.
Despite the abundance of supermarkets and value stores, Adam’s Apple continues to thrive. The store on Allerton Road is the last remaining and has been serving the community for over 35 years.
Cafe Tabac
Located on Bold Street, Cafe Tabac has been serving Liverpool since 1974. The American-style eatery offers a variety of drinks and snacks, and also has its own cinema room showing various films. It’s the perfect place to get together with friends and family.
Which oldest Liverpool businesses is your favourite? Let us know in the comments section below.
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