The Caledonia, located on Caledonia Street in the city’s Georgian Quarter, closed for good over the weekend after battling to stay open during the pandemic.
On Saturday 8 March, licensee Laura King announced the news on the pub’s social media, attributing the “incredibly difficult decision” to the cost-of-living-crisis.
The post said: “I have fought hard since the pandemic and particularly over the past 12 months to keep the venue going.
“Despite incredible support and help, and with a huge amount of work having begun to restructure and build great new connections and events, it has become clear that in the current economic climate this current challenge is just one too far for me to fight through.
Compounding costs
It added: “The cost-of-living crisis is crippling community venues. We are seeing compounding rising costs in utilities, stock, rent, rates and more all of which, and more, are set to rise again in April.
“That is coupled with a loss of customers because our community is struggling too. We are not the first to go and, without change, we won’t be the last.”
King, who has been at the helm of the pub since May 2010, added she was “privileged and proud” to have watched the venue “blossom” into a true community hub for music and arts in Liverpool over the past 15 years.
Thanking those who have supported the pub over the years, including customers, performers and staff, she added: “In the perfect words of one of our supporters, ‘the Caledonia is not just a pub’.
“We have hosted 1000s of musicians from all over the world, watched talented locals grow and develop professional careers, been home to theatre groups, community groups and clubs, and seen people build friendships and meet future partners.
Very proud
“I am very proud of the thousands of hours of free access to music we’ve been able to provide for our community and the employment we were able to create for local grassroots performers.”
Last summer, King appealed for help to fight the “storm” of rising costs and keep the doors open at the Caledonia by encouraging customers to pop in for a drink or meal and to enjoy the live music on offer.
The post said: “This is a bit of a humbling post to write but we really need your help. Times they are biting us at The Caledonia and it’s starting to get tricky to keep the old girl afloat. “I hate having to ask but I love what this little pub does for people, the joy and community we bring to many. The safety and acceptance that all people can find here is such a wonderful thing.”
