Peggy McCools: Warrington's vintage bar flying the flag for grassroots music

In a former Co-op milk delivery stables on Warrington's Erwood Street, something rather special has been brewing. Peggy McCools is part craft beer bar, part vintage shop and part grassroots music venue, and in 2026 its commitment to local musicians earned it a place in Independent Venue Week.

Peggy McCools began life as an antiques and retro store before evolving into a fully licensed venue at the start of 2024, while holding on to its roots. The theme is all things vintage, with the decor, artwork and furniture matching a retro aesthetic, and the vintage retail side of the business still sits alongside the bar.

Founder Matt McGinty said when the bar launched that he was proud to give Warrington a brand-new venue combining craft beer and entertainment. He also spoke of bringing in new beers and flavours from around the region and working with promoters to give local musicians a place to be heard. The bar pours from up to six keg lines.

That ambition has been realised. More than 200 bands played Peggy McCools in its first two years, and the venue passes 100 per cent of door revenue to the bands, a policy that has won it many friends on the local scene.

That record led to its selection for Independent Venue Week, the UK's annual seven-day celebration of independent music and arts venues. For the 2026 edition, which opened on Monday 26 January, Peggy McCools staged six days of live events, including four band nights, an evening of acoustic talent and an open mic night on Friday 30 January.

Its rise comes at a time when Warrington's grassroots music scene is showing real energy, with the free Warrington Music Festival showcasing new and emerging bands in the town centre and other venues championing live performance.

For anyone who likes their pint with a side of live music and a rummage through vintage finds, it is one of the most characterful nights out in town, and a fine example of how a small independent business can make a big difference to a local scene.

Peggy McCools is at Unit B, The Stables, Erwood Street, Warrington WA2 7NW. Follow @peggy.mccools on Instagram for gig listings.