A look back at Liverpool’s Montrose Club, famed for cheap food, drink, and keeping local pubs busy for decades.
It started in the 1950s within a large house on Richmond Terrace. Later, it moved to Whitefield Road and by 1973, the purpose-built “New Montrose Club” opened there.
“The Monty” attracted people from far away, with regulars and famous performers filling the club often. They held many events over the years. Ernie and Gordon Mack owned the club and were well-known.
Many Facebook users shared happy memories. Kenny Grimes remembered nights at the Richmond Terrace site, while Phil Cornell said The Monty kept all the pubs busy.
Others recalled great nights with cheap beer. Monday nights were popular, said John Broadhurst. Justin Maclean noted the many great bands and Ann Murphy wrote, “Loved the Montrose.”
Julie Ann Clarke had her hen party there in 1987. Mary Lawlor even met her husband at The Montrose, and Glenda Mason said she had many good times there.
Mirrorpix found old photos from over thirty years ago. These images had been unseen for years until now, and one photo showed a Variety Club performance in 1998.
In 1990, the ECHO reported on club renovations, noting that the Montrose spent to make it comfortable. The Montrose aimed to be one of the best in Liverpool.
Gordon Mack said they wanted a multi-purpose club that planned dance nights for singles and groups. Cabaret and disco events would stay on weekends.
Dance nights for people over 25 were introduced; customers could dine and see a show for £8. The venue held 500 people, with a bar, lounge, and function room.
Membership cost £5 per couple at the time. An ECHO ad told people to book early, listing Ken Dodd and other performers.
The over-25s nights played classic 60s and 70s music. The club promised “no Kylie, Jason or Bros.” More old photos then emerged of The Montrose Club, including one of Ernie Mack with Pink Elephant Club members.
Ernie Mack’s organization helped entertainers in need. Another image showed an audience in 1998.
The Montrose Club was popular for over fifty years, and it was well-known across Liverpool.