Manchester music venue gets £100k refurb

Manchester’s live music scene has been given a fresh coat of paint following the £100,000 refurbishment of one of the city’s most iconic venues

Brewer Joseph Holt have just reopened The Eagle Inn – long recognised as a much-loved location for upcoming bands.

Well-known musicians, including members of Bury-based Elbow, are known to drink at The Eagle which lies in an industrial estate near Victoria Station, close to the famous Blueprint Studios where the award-winning band record.

Regular performances take place in the pub’s adjoining 80-capacity audience space, while the bar serves a variety of Holt’s award-winning ales and beers – which are brewed less than a mile away.

The Grade II-listed pub dates back to 1848, while an ancient piano and working jukebox, crammed with classic tracks, occupy the main drinking area

Refurbishing the pub, owners Joseph Holt were careful to maintain the atmosphere and character of The Eagle while ‘refreshing’ the interior with new chairs, tables, parquet flooring and even an upgraded toilet. There is also a new beer garden in the pub courtyard.

The audience space remains unchanged with its raised stage and balcony.

Richard Kershaw, chief executive of family-owned Joseph Holt and the fifth generation to work at the brewery, said refurbishment of The Eagle would reinforce its position as one of Manchester’s favourite live music venues.

He added: “We’re delighted that Joseph Holt plays its part in providing a venue for promising musical talent to cut their teeth and a place where fans can come and enjoy live music.

“It demonstrates the range of the pubs within our estate and the contribution they make to the flourishing regions of the North.”