A renowned Manchester pub popular with students is set for a major £1m renovation.
- The Footage pub closed unexpectedly in May and will reopen with a new identity.
- Situated at Grosvenor Street and Oxford Road, it was formerly the Grosvenor Picture Palace.
- Managed by Blind Tiger Inns, the venue aims to provide an ultimate entertainment experience.
- The transformation includes new interiors, entertainment features, and a revisited menu.
Situated prominently at the intersection of Grosvenor Street and Oxford Road, the historically significant venue, once known as The Footage, will soon debut under a new banner after unexpectedly closing its doors in May. Originally constructed as The Grosvenor Picture Palace in 1912, the building carries a rich legacy, having once been the largest cinema outside London. This esteemed venue, now owned by Index Investments, is poised to undergo a comprehensive £1 million refurbishment, breathing new life into its storied walls.
The reimagined establishment will be under the management of Blind Tiger Inns, a renowned group known for its distinct venues across the region. Blind Tiger Inns’ portfolio includes notable names such as The Chestergate in Stockport and The Trafford, a prominent haunt for football enthusiasts. Their expertise promises to turn the venue into a vibrant entertainment hub, while honouring its historical essence by christening it ‘The Grosvenor’, echoing its origins as a grand cinema.
This transformation aspires to create an ‘ultimate adult escapism experience’ with eye-catching interiors complemented by state-of-the-art facilities. Reports indicate features such as large sports screens, a captivating photobooth, and even an actual slide designed to traverse the old cinema balcony. An expansive selection of 30 beer taps will cater to diverse tastes, complemented by recreational offerings like pool tables, beer pong, and darts, forging an all-encompassing social experience.
At the heart of The Grosvenor’s offering will be live sports broadcasts throughout the week, coupled with repurposed original stage hosting a variety of entertainment including club nights, quizzes, live music, and DJ sessions. This multifaceted approach is intended to satisfy a variety of tastes, ensuring that the venue remains a cornerstone of Manchester’s social scene.
Culinary delights will be another highlight, with a freshly curated menu to align with the extensive drinks selection. Patrons can expect to enjoy craft beers, cocktails, and premium spirits alongside gastronomic treats such as loaded pizzas, stacked burgers, sharing platters, and buckets of wings. Chris Tulloch, Managing Director of Blind Tiger Inns, expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting their aim to meld elements of a sports bar, social venue, and nightclub into a single, impactful experience. He stated, ‘The Grosvenor is in the midst of an incredible transformation, and we’re creating something truly special for Manchester.’
In revamping this iconic site, Blind Tiger Inns aims to restore its standing as a focal point of Manchester’s vibrant entertainment landscape.
