Bootle’s oldest pub to open new sports bar in January

Bootle’s oldest pub, the Jawbone Tavern, is set to open a new sports bar in January 2026 as part of an ongoing expansion following its reopening last year.

The pub on Litherland Road reopened in September 2024 under new ownership after a refurbishment aimed at modernising the venue while retaining its historic character.

Since then, it has attracted strong support from local residents, according to the operators. The project is expected to create eight additional jobs at the pub.

Work is now under way on a new first-floor sports bar with capacity for up to 80 customers. Facilities will include electronic dart boards, a pool table and multiple large screens showing live sport.

The expansion follows the completion of a redesigned beer garden earlier this year. The outdoor space includes artwork by local artist Paul Curtis, featuring a large mural referencing the site’s whaling heritage.

The Jawbone Tavern dates back to 1802 and takes its name from the whaling fleets once based at Bootle Docks. The pub has survived two world wars and was previously owned by former Liverpool FC footballer Jock McNab. It has served the local community for more than two centuries.

Dave Mcnally, general manager of the Jawbone Tavern said: “When the new owners took over the Jawbone Tavern they had plans to create a new outdoor space and that was completed earlier in the year.

“This was a big hit with our locals across the summer months and now we have expanded upstairs and are in the process of creating a 80 customer capacity sports bar. The sports bar will be an extension of what we currently offer and we look forward to welcoming customers both new and old from January onwards.”

The Jawbone Tavern has also marked the festive season with an extensive Christmas display. The pub funded a community Christmas tree in Bootle after Sefton Council said the town would otherwise be without one this year.