A neighbourhood pub, wine bar and eatery in the heart of Liverpool’s iconic Lark Lane
The bookbinder sits in pride of place on Liverpool’s Lark Lane. A one-way road just off the hugely popular Sefton Park, it is the place to be when the sun is out. The cafes and bars lining the road swing open their doors and place tables and chairs outside, and people spill out onto the street with pints and glasses of wine in their hands, chattering and laughing. The Bookbinder is no different. From the outside, the place looks warm and inviting, painted a cheery yellow. Inside, the abundance of plants, vintage style furniture and low lighting creates a warm, exclusive and classy feel. The Bookbinder is the epitome of a third place. I have spent hours here, tapping away at my laptop during my university exams, and returning in the evening for a pint with friends, somewhere we felt accepted and at home.
Lark Lane – Liverpool at its very best
To really understand the value of the Bookbinder, you need some context. Lark Lane is a Brighton-esque road on the outskirts of Liverpool’s city centre. It is most easily accessed by taking a stroll through Sefton Park or by a walk through Festival Gardens on the banks of the River Mersey. Because of its location, you get a sense of leaving the city, a sense of leaving the hustle and bustle behind on the way to a true oasis. As you step onto Lark Lane, you are immediately engulfed in a sun trap, weaving your way through groups of people carrying houseplants, pottery and flowers, bought from one of the many independent stores lining the road. Everywhere you turn, there is a cafe, a pub, a bar, inviting you in with live music, delicious food and a friendly atmosphere. Locals bask in the sun with small plates of food and glasses of wine, sharing stories and reminiscing. Even as a newcomer, a temporary resident in my university city, Lark Lane was always welcoming and accepting.
The Bookbinder – A Long-Term Staple of Liverpool Community
The Bookbinder wears many hats for those who frequent it. A pub and wine bar first and foremost, the comprehensive wine list and selection of cask ales is sure to satisfy any alcohol connoisseur. To line your stomach, the menu of homemade, locally sourced meals has never let me down. They are self-proclaimed board game lovers, and their selection of vintage chess and Scrabble sets is sure to invoke envy in any collector. Sometimes, you want to get out of the house, but you don’t want a rowdy pub or a crowded bar, and the Bookbinder has nailed this crowd down perfectly. There is no better way to spend a Sunday in Liverpool than sitting with your friends playing a board game, listening to 60s garage and soul music and nibbling on freshly made small plates. Catering for vegans, veggies, dogs and kids, there is nobody who is not welcome at the Bookbinder, and you feel this the second you step in the door.
Spending an evening at the Bookbinder
Whilst you could easily wish away a day at the Bookbinder, the evenings are when the place really comes alive. The warm-coloured walls, vintage-looking furniture, low lighting and stained glass make you feel as though you are in the cosiest of classic English pubs, with a modern, indie twist. Couples share food by candlelight, students share pints at the bar, and locals sip coffee and play chess at their regular tables. On a Tuesday, you can expect to find a gaggle of Chess enthusiasts gathered for Chess Knights, and at the weekend, local musicians take to the small (but cosy!) stage to light up your evening with a song. Whatever day you go, you can be sure that you’ll be welcomed in with open arms, fed some delicious food and served a banging pint, all with a smile.
Closing the book
The Bookbinder has been a staple for Liverpool locals for years. The reliability of the food, drink and vibe has helped the eatery worm its way into people’s hearts, and spring to mind for those wanting a relaxed yet atmospheric evening. I completed university exams there, learned to play chess there, and spent countless hours chatting to friends and locals. The Bookbinder has an extraordinary ability to make you feel as though they are catering specifically to you, that the chefs in the kitchen and the smiling faces behind the bar have been placed there solely for your benefit. The Scouse charm is truly exhibited at its best on Lark Lane, and none does it better than the Bookbinder.
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