Iconic Crosby pub The George reopens today after major transformation

There is exciting news for Crosby Village as one of its most recognisable and historic pubs officially reopens today, Friday 21 August, following an extensive refurbishment and major investment by new independent local owners.

The George Pub on Moor Lane in Crosby Village, which has a history dating back to 1815, opens its doors today after an extensive transformation designed to restore and celebrate the character of this much-loved local landmark.

The reopening comes from the experienced local hospitality team behind Murphy’s Tavern, Wavertree Town Hall and the soon-to-open Wild Roe, as well as other successful venues across the Liverpool area.

The George closed in May after being acquired by the independent local operators behind nearby Murphy’s Tavern, which opened just 200 yards away on Moor Lane in March last year.

The acquisition represents a significant private investment in the revitalisation of Crosby Village’s nighttime and hospitality economy, with the team bringing its focus on high-quality service, community and a welcoming atmosphere to The George while preserving the pub’s distinctive traditional character.

Restoring The George rather than replacing its character…

A major focus of the refurbishment has been restoration wherever possible, ensuring the history and character of the building remain at the heart of the new-look pub.

Work has included restoring the oak wood panelling, exposing fireplaces and restoring the Victorian toilets, while the bar facilities have been upgraded and seating areas enhanced.

A modernised kitchen has also been installed to support a full daily food service.

The reopening is particularly special for Jon Hewitt, from Murphy’s Tavern, because The George is where his own working life began when he was just 15 years old.

Jon said: “We are absolutely thrilled to take on such a landmark venue as The George. Crosby Village has a brilliant, tight-knit community, and our goal is to give them a beautifully restored space that they can be proud of.”

“Just like with Murphy’s Tavern, we are deeply committed to investing locally, creating new jobs, and keeping the independent spirit of Crosby’s high street alive and thriving.”

“The George is a venue very close to my heart. It was right here that I started my first job aged 15 as a glass collector on Friday and Saturday nights back when it was a Whitbread’s pub. To come full circle and now be part of the team bringing the venue back to life is fantastic.”

More than 200 years of history…

Jon has spent the past three months researching the fascinating history of The George ahead of its reopening.

With help from the local library, the team uncovered information relating to The George dating back as far as 1815. It is believed the original building was later demolished and rebuilt during the 1920s.

Jon added: “I have spent the last three months researching the history of The George, learning as much as possible about it.

“With help from the local library we found information regarding The George pub dating back to 1815, with it believed to have then been demolished and rebuilt in the 1920s.

“We also found information on most of the previous landlords and have a tribute to them all above the bar.”

20 new local jobs and traditional pub food…

The reopening is also bringing an employment boost to Crosby, with 20 new local jobs created as part of the investment.

The George will serve traditional, good old-fashioned pub food every day from 11am until 9pm.

The George pub is located at 1 Moor Lane, Crosby, Liverpool, L23 2SE, in the pedestrianised centre of Crosby Village.

Opening hours

Monday to Thursday: 11am to 11pm

Friday and Saturday: 11am to 1am

Sunday: 11am to midnight

Experienced independent local owners

The George is independently owned and operated by Harrisons Group, the experienced local hospitality team behind venues including Harrisons Bar & Kitchen, Scruffy Murphy’s on Harrington Street, Wavertree Town Hall and Crosby’s Murphy’s Tavern, with The Wild Roe in Ince Blundell also due to open soon.

With historic features restored, upgraded facilities, a modernised kitchen, 20 new local jobs and more than two centuries of history being celebrated rather than forgotten, today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for The George and Crosby Village.

For all the latest updates from The George, follow @thegeorgepubcrosby on Instagram.