A beloved Manchester pub, once a major student hub, is undergoing a £1 million transformation. The Footage, located at the bustling corner of Grosvenor Street and Oxford Road, will soon re-emerge with a new identity, ‘The Grosvenor’.
After its unexpected closure in May, the popular venue is set to be revitalised, promising a memorable experience with an eclectic mix of history, modernity, and entertainment.
Historical Significance and Location
The Footage pub, prominently located at the intersection of Grosvenor Street and Oxford Road, holds a special place in Manchester’s history. Originally built in 1912 as the Grosvenor Picture Palace, it was once the largest cinema outside London. This historic venue enjoyed great popularity, especially among students from the nearby Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester.
The Sudden Closure and Transformation Plans
The unexpected closure of The Footage in May left many regular patrons surprised, with little information shared about the shutdown at the time. However, it has since been disclosed that the pub is undergoing a comprehensive transformation costing £1 million. Upon reopening, it will be rebranded as ‘The Grosvenor’, recognising its historical roots and the street it resides on.
Managed by Blind Tiger Inns, the venue will undergo significant renovations to deliver ‘the ultimate adult escapism experience’. The new design will feature unique interiors, extensive sports viewing facilities, a photobooth, and even a slide that extends past the original cinema balcony.
Entertainment and Facilities Offerings
The Grosvenor aims to be a vibrant social hub, boasting an impressive array of entertainment options. Plans for the venue include live sports showings throughout the week and utilising the original stage. This stage will host a variety of events ranging from quiz nights and live music to DJ sessions and club nights.
An exceptional selection of 30 beer taps will be available, complemented by engaging activities like pool, beer pong, and darts. These features are designed to enhance the social environment, making the pub a dynamic destination for leisure and recreation.
Culinary Delights and Beverage Selections
In aligning with the establishment’s revamped identity, the pub will introduce a new food menu. This menu will feature items designed to pair with a broad spectrum of beverages, including craft beers, alcohol-free drinks, cocktails, and premium spirits.
Guests can look forward to a variety of gastronomy offerings such as loaded pizzas, stacked burgers, sharing platters, as well as buckets of wings. These dishes aim to cater to diverse tastes and complement the vibrant atmosphere that The Grosvenor seeks to establish.
Vision and Community Impact
Chris Tulloch, Managing Director of Blind Tiger Inns, expressed enthusiasm about this transformation, stating their goal is to create a memorable space where social interaction thrives. ‘The Grosvenor is in the midst of an incredible transformation, and we’re creating something truly special for Manchester. Our vision is to blend the best aspects of a sports bar, social venue, and nightclub into one vibrant, unforgettable space where memories are made.’
As a revamped cornerstone of entertainment, the venue anticipates drawing in crowds eager to enjoy its modern amenities and engage in the lively social life it offers.
Operational Details
The operational schedule of The Grosvenor will be structured to allow patrons ample time to enjoy its various offerings. The venue will open from 12pm to 12am on weekdays, with extended hours until 2am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Such timings aim to accommodate both the after-work crowd and those seeking late-night entertainment, making it an accessible spot within Manchester’s bustling city centre.
As The Grosvenor prepares to reopen its doors, it symbolises both a celebration of its rich past and an exciting step into the future. With extensive renovations and a blend of traditional and contemporary offerings, the venue stands ready to reclaim its status as a central figure in Manchester’s vibrant entertainment scene.
