Pub joins Buckingham Palace on Grade I list - 19th February 2020

A Liverpool institution that was a favourite hangout of the Beatles, the Philharmonic Dining rooms has now become the first Victorian-era English pub to be given Grade One listed status.

'The Phil', as it's known in the city, was built in 1898 by architect Walter W Thomas. It's notable for its exuberant grand stone exterior, stained glass windows and richly decorated interior.

Originally a dining room for gentlemen, only, attending the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall concert venue opposite. Its toilets are particularly renowned.

John Lennon once complained that the worst thing about being in the Beatles was "not being able to have a pint in the Phil". The Grade One status means that it now joins a list of architectural gems that includes Buckingham Palace.

Eamon Lavin is the pub landlord. Eamon Lavin: "It's pretty rare to get a public venue, where you can walk into a venue, and see a Grade One listed status. Most venues you would go into, you have to walk around or you can't sit down, whereas in here you can just sit down and take in the architecture."