Popular Warrington bar to series of live music events next week

A POPULAR Warrington bar will be hosting a series of live music events next week as part of a UK-wide celebration of independent venues.

Peggy McCools, on Erwood Street, is a vintage bar which specialises in craft beers from up to six independent breweries.

The bar opened in 2024 and has proven a hit, with live music from up-and-coming performers.

It has now been chosen to be part of the Independent Venue Week (IVW), which is an annual seven-day celebration in the UK.

Since it launched in 2014, IVW has championed independently owned venues by bringing them together with artists, promoters, agents and record labels for a series of live events.

Peggy McCools was chosen due to its commitment to Warrington’s grassroots music scene since it opened, with more than 200 bands having played the venue since 2024.

Not only this, but 100 per cent of the door revenue at the venue goes to the bands.

As part of IVW, which is from January 26 to February 1, Peggy McCools will be putting on six days of live events.

This includes four band nights, an evening of acoustic talent and an open mic night ahead of the Warrington Wolves home game against Leigh Leopards.

“We’re incredibly proud to have been considered and chosen for Independent Venue Week – I never thought I’d see Peggy McCools on the same list as the likes of the famous Ronny Scotts,” said Matt McGinty, founder of the venue.

“It’s great to be recognised for our efforts in providing a space for Warrington’s grassroots music to keep thriving – it’s really important to us.

“We grew up following our friends in some of Warrington’s favourite bands and without independent venues they would never have been able to get the experience they needed to progress.

“Hopefully the IVW spotlight on Warrington will help the town’s scene kick on a gear because there’s some incredible talent out there.

“We look forward to welcoming people through the door for it next week.”