This may just be England’s most beautiful pub

Whenever I’ve been asked to recommend a pub in Liverpool, I usually tell them about the Philharmonic Dining Rooms. Affectionately known as “The Phil”, it’s on hilltop Hope Street, opposite its sister establishment and concert venue, The Philharmonic Hall.

Guaranteed to impress, the pub has a gorgeous Victorian interior, including some extravagantly tiled bathrooms. A young John Lennon used to drink at this watering hole, apparently, and a few years back Paul McCartney popped in for an impromptu gig while filming for James Corden’s Carpool Karaoke TV show. I’d still say pop in for a pint (and perhaps a pie).

But I’ve found another Liverpool pub that is arguably even more beautiful. In fact — and I usually try to resist hyperbole — it’s possibly the most beautiful pub I’ve been to in all of England, which is saying something, as I’ve frequented a few over the decades.

Anyway, let me direct you to The Vines. Known to Liverpudlians, or Scousers, as the “Big House”, it has stood proud on Lime Street, a few minutes walk (or a slightly longer stagger) from the railway station, since 1867, but it was rebuilt in 1907 in a flamboyant style by Walter Thomas, the Welsh architect also behind the design of The Phil.

Grade II-listed by Historic England, The Vines has recently reopened after a major overhaul by its new owner Rob Gutmann, who runs a string of other venues around the city.

Behind its lordly stone exterior lies a treasure trove of bars and saloons, furnished with exquisite craftsmanship, much of it original, others tastefully added. Floors are a mix of timber, rug and mosaic tiled. Lush plants contrast nicely with the abundant darkwood panelling and carving. Stuffed animals (deer, badger, crow and others) jut from the walls. Looking around, you’ll see stucco cherubs, cornicing, antique vases, floral stained glass, fireplaces and a handsome clock. The Billiard Room, a grand Edwardian hall, is especially jaw-dropping.

Stepping in, I see punters seated on leather booths and table stools beneath an ornate glass dome. Lampshades are designed like palm fronds and walnut walls are lined with portraits of old gents from yesteryear and TV screens showing the sport.

The Vines draws a diverse crowd, both Scousers and out-of-towners. This midweek afternoon, there are locals on extended lunch breaks. A few on laptops working or twiddling with their phones. Friends are conversing and laughing over a few “bevvies” (drinks).

There’s a good wine and gin selection but most patrons (including me) are supping pints, with lots of British cask and draught ales to choose from. I go for a pilsner-style Red Lion lager and savour it slowly, shuffling between the different rooms. An English pub is often a lovely place in which to linger. And with decor like this that experience is elevated all the more at The Vines.

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+ For more information on travelling to Liverpool and Britain, see visitliverpool.com and visitbritain.com