Netflix’s new series House of Guinness has put the world’s most famous stout back in the spotlight. While the show tells the story of family, business, and the legendary black-and-white pint, it also has a special connection to Liverpool - several key scenes were filmed right here in the city.
That choice makes perfect sense. Liverpool has always had close ties to Dublin, with ferries crossing the Irish Sea daily and a shared history built on trade, migration, and culture. That proximity means you don’t need to travel all the way to St. James’s Gate to find a creamy, perfectly poured Guinness - Liverpool has some of the best pints outside of Ireland.
If the series has you craving a glass, here are some of the top spots in Liverpool where the Guinness is famously good. Sláinte!
Liverpool City Centre
Pogue Mahone
One of the city’s most popular Irish pubs, Pogue Mahone is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional music sessions, and warm welcome. Expect a consistently good Guinness here, poured with care and served with a smile. It’s no surprise that Pogue Mahone has been named in Guinness’ official Harp Awards for excellence.
Punch Tarmey’s
A heavyweight of Liverpool’s Irish pub scene, Punch Tarmey’s is one of the biggest Irish bars in the city. Spread across a vast Cains Brewery Village venue, it’s got multiple bars, live sports, live music, and a Guinness that’s always on point. The scale is impressive, but despite the size, the pint doesn’t lose its quality. A must-visit for those who want Guinness in a grand setting. They also have a venue in Southport too!
Shenanigans
This friendly bar has been a staple of Liverpool’s Irish scene for years. With live sports, karaoke nights, and a proper pint of Guinness on tap, Shenanigans is perfect for both a casual afternoon drink and a weekend celebration. Recognized in Guinness’ Harp Awards, it’s a must-visit for fans of the perfect pour.
Flanagan’s Apple
Located in a converted warehouse on Liverpool’s famous Mathew Street, Flanagan’s Apple is a city institution. With rustic charm, hearty pub food, and a strong Guinness game, it’s a great place to start (or end) a night out.
Molly Malone’s
Just a short walk from Liverpool Lime Street Station, Molly Malone’s is the perfect central spot for a pint before heading to gigs, football, or a night in the city. The Guinness here is poured with care, and the atmosphere is as warm as the whiskey behind the bar.
Ma Boyles
Tucked away near the waterfront, Ma Boyle’s is known for its brunches and cocktails, and Liverpool local dish, Scouse, but its Guinness is also highly rated. A quieter alternative to some other venues, pull up a seat in the cosy pub that dates back to 1890.
The Bridewell
The Bridewell is one of Liverpool’s most unique pubs, set inside a former Victorian police station complete with old cells as seating areas. It’s known for its craft beers and real ales, but it also pours an excellent Guinness. For those who like their pint with a side of history and atmosphere, The Bridewell is a must-visit.
The Monroe
The historical ‘Monro’ pub on Duke St, Liverpool City centre is set within a late 1700s listed Georgian merchant’s mansion. Spanning two floors, indoor and outdoor beer gardens, and roaring log fires it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cosy Guinness. The Monro has earned a spot in Guinness’ official Harp Awards, making it one of the city’s top destinations for a perfectly poured Guinness.
St Peters Tavern
Built as a Roman Catholic church in 1788 and recently refurbished, St Peter’s Tavern has quickly earned a following for its excellent service and welcoming vibe. The Guinness here is poured beautifully - thick, creamy, and smooth - making it a rising favourite in the city’s Irish pub scene. Its location on Seel Street puts it right in the heart of Liverpool nightlife, perfect for a stop on any pub crawl.
The Jacaranda
Famed as the club owned by The Beatles’ first manager, Allan Williams, this iconic venue is more than a music landmark. The Guinness here is poured well, making it a great spot for those who want their pint served with a side of Liverpool’s rock ‘n’ roll history.
The Vines
A Grade II–listed pub next to Lime Street Station, The Vines is as grand as pubs come. Its ornate Edwardian interiors are jaw-dropping, and the Guinness feels all the more special when enjoyed under carved ceilings, stained glass and open fires.
Peter Kavanagh’s
One of Liverpool’s quirkiest and most historic pubs. Its eclectic interior, decorated with bric-a-brac and curiosities, makes it an unforgettable place to drink Guinness. A true locals’ favourite.
The Dispensary
Beloved by locals for its real ale, but also renowned for its perfectly poured Guinness. The no-frills, old-school atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a quiet pint of the black stuff.
Philharmonic Dining Rooms
Perhaps Liverpool’s most famous pub, a Victorian masterpiece filled with ornate features. Known for its stunning interior - and yes, the Guinness tastes just as good as the surroundings look. Drinking here feels like raising a glass to Liverpool’s history.
Doctor Duncans
Doctor Duncans is a classic Liverpool pub with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel like a regular from the moment you step inside. Its traditional interiors - dark wood, exposed brick, and cosy corners - create the perfect backdrop for a pint of Guinness. Locals praise the care taken in every pour, and it’s an ideal stop for anyone exploring the city centre on foot or enjoying a quiet night out.
The Denbigh Castle
Dating back over a century, The Denbigh Castle is steeped in Liverpool history and maintains a classic pub charm that transports you back in time. Its intimate interior makes it perfect for enjoying a slow, well-poured Guinness. Known for attracting a mix of locals and visitors, it’s a pub where conversation flows as smoothly as the stout, offering an authentic slice of Liverpool’s Irish heritage.
The Baltic Fleet
Sitting along Liverpool’s historic waterfront, The Baltic Fleet is a pub rich in maritime history, once serving sailors from the docks. Its nautical décor - think ship models, maritime artefacts, and dark timber panelling - creates a unique atmosphere to enjoy a Guinness. Soak up the sun in their beer garden in the summer or cosy up to the fire in the colder months, The Baltic Fleet is a must-visit for anyone who wants their Guinness with a side of Liverpool’s shipping heritage.
Across the region
The Mess
Sit back, relax and unwind in the officer's mess of the historic 200-year old Fort Perch Rock in New Brighton, Wirral. Built as a defence battery in 1829 to defend the port of Liverpool, the fort has its origins from the Napoleonic wars, but also played a significant role in World War One and World War Two.
Pull up a chair in the historic venue and enjoy a pint of Guinness and something tasty to eat.
The Ferry Pub
The Ferry is a popular, historic, Wallasey pub in Wirral which boasts unprecedented views over the River Mersey and Liverpool skyline. Sit back, relax and enjoy a drink taking in the iconic views.
The Grand
There is something irresistible about The Grand Southport. Standing proudly on Lord Street’s beautiful tree-lined boulevard, it is a landmark destination that blends historic elegance with modern luxury. Proudly restored to its former glory The Grand invites you to be transported to the glitz and glamour of Southport’s yesteryear.
The Hightown Inn
The traditional pub, led by Chef Daniel Heffy, preserves its local charm and offers a traditional dining experience with product-focused, seasonal cooking, simple, well-made cocktails and of course, a pint of Guinness.
Sitting right next to Hightown Station, it’s the perfect place to stop off if you've been exploring the Sefton Coast.
