Pig & Whistle pub uses unverified connection to Paul McCartney’s family for popularity and appeal.
Bobby has been updating the pub himself. He did interior decorating, added new upholstery and exterior details, and put in flower beds. He also installed funny signs.
One sign says: “The façade only a mother could love.” Another reads: “We’re not closed, just ugly.” He added another sign last month that advertises a Beatles attraction.
He renamed the Chapel Street entrance “The McCartney Steps.” The sign explains a possible connection: Jim McCartney may have frequented the pub. Jim is Paul McCartney’s dad, and Mike McCartney possibly sat on the steps, waiting with Paul for their dad in the 1950s.
The claim is unverified, but plausible. Bobby worked at the pub before owning it and recalls a story about Mike McCartney, who said he sat on the pub steps with Paul while Jim worked nearby.
Bobby thought the story fit well and wanted to highlight the McCartney link. He created a “celebrity corner” inside, featuring famous pub visitors.
The corner includes Ronnie Whelan and Brian Labone. Actor Dean Sullivan also appears there. Prince Philip supposedly had a drink there too during his navy service.
Bobby admits he cannot confirm the story fully. He hopes to add a fun element to the pub. People notice the sign, and they take pictures.
The Pig & Whistle celebrates 150 years this year! The building existed in the early 1700s, back then it was a boarding house and a brothel.
It became a pub in 1875 and was named after ship crew bars, which were called “Pig and Whistle.” The pub mainly served dock workers. Bobby jokes about its history: “Not a brothel since 1875.” More anniversary plans will soon be released by the pub.