Pub Facts

Ratings

• Located at 36 Hope Street, Liverpool L1 9BX, The Philharmonic Dining Rooms is a Grade I listed pub, renowned as one of the most ornate and historically important public houses in England.

• Built between 1898 and 1900 for brewer Robert Cain, it was designed by architect Walter W. Thomas in an exuberant Victorian 'gin palace' style, with contributions from local university craftsmen.

• The exterior features ashlar stone, turrets with ogee domes, stepped gables, art nouveau metal gates (considered among the UK's finest), and elaborate sculptural detailing.

• The lavish interior is decorated with musical themes, nodding to its position opposite the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. Highlights include intricate plasterwork, repoussé copper panels, stained and etched glass, mahogany fireplaces, and elegant mosaics.

• Notable rooms include the Brahms and Liszt rooms (named after composers), and the Grand Lounge, originally a billiards room, which showcases gold-plaster friezes, stained glass skylights, and sumptuous woodwork.

• The pub is famed for its gentlemen’s toilets, with rose-coloured marble urinals and mosaic tiling—so celebrated they are Grade II listed in their own right.

• The Phil is a cultural landmark, frequented by locals, students, tourists, and famous musicians such as Paul McCartney, John Lennon, and Buddy Holly.