The Lock & Quay in Bootle is the Liverpool City Region’s only community-owned pub, where every penny of profit is reinvested into the local area. Set alongside the Leeds-Liverpool Canal, the pub has become a transformative force for Bootle, bringing people together through cultural events, social action, and environmental projects.
The Lock & Quay has established itself as a vital hub for community engagement, supporting social action, physical and mental well-being, and environmental sustainability. Despite being in one of the most deprived areas of the UK, the pub has created a space where everyone feels welcome, valued, and part of something special.
Key activities and initiatives include:
- Community Events: Hosting diverse events throughout the year, including music festivals, community celebrations, and themed evenings such as Bootle Music Fez, Country Fez, Ukulele Fez, Locktoberfest, Big Bang Fireworks, Pirate Fez, Canal of Light Dragon Parade, and more. All these events are community-led and co-designed by local residents.
- Social and Recreational Clubs: Offering regular activities such as the Canoe & Walking Club, monthly wellness walking clubs, and live music sessions including under-18s music jams, open mic nights, and themed music clubs (e.g., Ukulele, Country, and Sea Shanty).
- Creative and Artistic Projects: Encouraging participation in arts and culture through inclusive clubs and performance opportunities, promoting local talent and fostering creativity.
- Environmental Initiatives: Maintaining the canal and surrounding areas through litter-picking and gardening projects, including the award-winning “Bootle in Bloom” scheme.
- Supporting Vulnerable People: Operating as a warm space during winter, offering free food, live music, and a real fire. They also serve as a food bank outreach point and a hate crime reporting centre.
- Skills and Employment Support: Offering training and employment opportunities, especially for young people struggling to find work, including those with additional needs.
- Volunteer Engagement: Involving the community in running events, maintaining the space, and fostering pride in their local area.
The Lock & Quay has garnered immense community support and pride. Locals view it as much more than just a pub; it is a vital social hub, a safe space, and a platform for community voices. The pub’s commitment to inclusion and diversity has earned the respect and affection of Bootle’s residents.
The Lock & Quay’s dedication to community-led initiatives, social inclusion, and charity support has made it a cornerstone of Bootle’s transformation. By creating a welcoming and supportive environment, the pub has become an inspiring example of how a community-owned establishment can change lives and reshape perceptions of a deprived area.
