First of all Sophie and Chantelle were awesome. Really pleasant, funny, and attentive. (Even though Sophie went on her break midway between serving us!!) The food...... I'm a tough one to please. Usually everything is 'ok' and you'll not get more out of me. I'm also very hesitant because it's basically part of a chain. But, the food we had tonight was really worth 5 stars. The flavours were very enjoyable and I genuinely struggled to tell whether it was the usual pre cooked and reheated nonsense that these places usually serve. I actually enjoyed it! We sat in a small area downstairs from the main or ground floor. The music being played was loud enough to hear and sing along with if you wish, but also no speakers in our little area so we could still enjoy each other's company, if we wished. All in all this is our first time in Liverpool and we are booked up for meals for the rest of our stay, but we are already planning for when we can next come back. The Pump House is a very welcoming establishment, with very good food served by fantastic staff in a truly Amazing city and we can't wait to be back. Signature Burger and Signature Pork Belly pictured.
Edited 5th June 2024
Firstly, I didn't see the lovely response from Kieren until today. I will indeed contact Greene King and forward my comments.
Well, we came back tonight! This time were looked after by Charlotte and Natalie who were just as fabulous and attentive as the previous staff last time we were in. They genuinely wanted to make sure we were happy with everything, comfortable and just that we were welcome. The staff really do make such a welcome and it's quite few and far between these days.
This time we brought family with us (we've travelled from Scotland) and arrived around 8 ish for dinner. All of our starters were great, apart from the squid, which I'll come back to. My wife and her sister both had the Pump House Burger and as last time thoroughly enjoyed it. My brother in law had fish and chips, which he also really enjoyed. However, I was disappointed with the look of the batter. Rather than look like a lovely golden brown batter, like the perfect onion rings, the batter looked like it had been cooked in either well used or too hot oil. He enjoyed it though and that's what's important. This time the menu was different, as often happens with change of seasons, and I had sirloin steak. My steak was cooked exactly as ordered. But, it looked like a cheap cut of sirloin. And if it hadn't of been for the amazing merlot gravy I had with it, it could've tasted like it too. Now, having said all this, our meal was eaten and enjoyed. Not just because of the fabulous venue we were in, but because since we were here in March we have tried quite a few other Greene King establishments and we haven't yet found one to match the Pump House on any level, but in particular the standard of food, which is what we're actually going for. Tonight's squid wasn't the same as in March (because we were wonderfully spoiled), but even that is far superior to anywhere else we've been Greene King or not.
Overall another fabulous and enjoyable visit. Yes it was busy and yes it was loud. That's because it's so popular with locals as well as tourists, and that alone speaks for itself.
Thanks again to Charlotte and Natalie for their typical Liverpudlian welcome, and we're already trying to plan our next visit. We're just hoping today was a slight off day for the food and our last meal which spoiled us is 'the norm'.
See you again as...
Read moreThe Pumphouse at the Albert Dock is one of Liverpool’s most iconic watering holes, steeped in character and history. Originally one of the first drinking spots in the area since it was built, it has kept its old-school charm while welcoming locals and visitors alike with open arms and a well-stocked bar. If these walls could talk, they’d tell tales of laughter, good times, and pints that have flowed for generations.
On our latest visit, the experience was nothing short of brilliant. We were greeted with top-tier service and big smiles, setting the tone straight away. Special shoutout to Liam behind the bar—he whipped up the best Bloody Mary we’ve ever had. Seriously, it was like a spicy little masterpiece in a glass. Perfectly balanced, full of flavour, and strong enough to remind you you're alive.
And then there was Elle. What a legend! Her energy was absolutely infectious, and she had us laughing non-stop. Whether she was cracking jokes or dancing around the tables with that cheeky grin, Elle turned the whole place into a proper vibe. It wasn’t just a drink at the pub—it was a full-on experience.
The Pumphouse manages to capture the spirit of Liverpool perfectly: rich in history, full of character, and powered by its people. Whether you're in for a quick drink, a hearty meal, or a few hours of belly laughs with legends like Elle and Liam, this place never disappoints. An...
Read moreMy Visit to The Pump House, Liverpool
My visit to The Pump House at Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool was a delightful experience blending history, great food, and stunning waterfront views. Originally built in 1870 as a hydraulic pump station to power the dock’s machinery, this beautifully restored red-brick building now serves as a pub and restaurant, preserving its industrial charm while offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
The setting by the water is perfect for relaxing after exploring the Maritime Museum or nearby attractions. The menu offers a good variety of British classics, seafood, and drinks, and the service was friendly and efficient. I especially enjoyed sitting by the window overlooking the dock — a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.
Visitor Tips: Try to visit during off-peak hours or make a reservation, as it can get busy on weekends. The outdoor seating is lovely in good weather.
How to Reach: The Pump House is located at Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AF, just a short walk from Liverpool James Street Station and well-connected by local buses. Parking is available at the nearby Albert Dock car park.
Overall, The Pump House is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a meal or drink in one of Liverpool’s most scenic and historic dockside locations — a perfect mix of heritage and...
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