The Waterloo Music Bar in Blackpool

166 Waterloo Rd, Blackpool FY4 2AF

About This Pub

Ah, the Waterloo Music Bar – it's one of those places that really hits the spot if you're mad about live gigs and a good pint. From what I've gathered from folks' chats online, it's got this vibrant energy with a steady stream of bands and tribute nights that keep things exciting; I can just picture the crowd getting swept up in the music, and the staff sound like absolute gems, always on hand with a smile and fair prices on drinks. It's got that community feel, with big screens making sure no one misses out on the action, which is thoughtful for a smaller venue. But, let's be straight, it's not perfect – some have mentioned it's not the easiest for anyone with mobility challenges, like having to sit at the back or navigating the space in a wheelchair, which is a shame because it could be more inclusive. Still, with such a solid reputation and heaps of events on offer, I'd say it's worth a punt if you're up for a lively night out, just keep those accessibility bits in mind and plan accordingly. Overall, it's a gem in Blackpool for music enthusiasts, as long as you're prepared for its quirks.

Pros and Cons

Pros

The live music scene is absolutely brilliant, with a fantastic lineup of bands and tribute acts that really get the crowd going.
The staff and owners are incredibly friendly and helpful, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
There's plenty of space and big screens so you can catch the action even if you're not right at the front, which is a nice touch.
Prices for drinks are really competitive, and they've got a good selection of draughts, bottles, and spirits to choose from.
The atmosphere is electric, especially during gigs, and it's a welcoming spot for everyone with lots of upcoming events to look forward to.

Cons

Accessibility isn't quite up to scratch for those with mobility issues; it's tough if you can't stand for long, as the best views are at the front.
The venue layout might make it tricky for wheelchair users to get around, particularly with crowds and the location of facilities.
Operating hours aren't clearly listed, which could leave you guessing about when it's open, especially if you're planning a visit.
Some events require ID and have age restrictions, so it's not ideal if you're after a more relaxed, all-ages vibe every time.

Contact Information

166 Waterloo Rd, Blackpool FY4 2AF

Bar

Hours not available

Opening Hours

Opening hours not available

Location

Recent Reviews

Venue for gigs is great but not disabled friendly at all. If you can't stand you have to sit at the back with a TV screen to watch the band. But with the crowd and where the disabled toilet it would be impossible to get too if you were in a wheelchair.

Dale Holford

This place is great!!! Wheelchair accessible - accessible toilet (radar key)!!! Big screens which can be watched if you don’t fancy going down the front!!! Owners & Staff are really friendly & helpful!!! They have lots of new bands & tribute bands!!!

Janbo

A fantastic venue to watch and listen to live bands. Plenty of room with TV screens so you can see the band on stage.

Ian Wishart

Fantastic venue, first time visiting to see Juliet's Not Dead and I LOVED it....so much memorabilia to look at but the stage and sound were 👌 will definitely be back 👍

Julie Cole

My last visit to the Waterloo Music Bar was in November 2024 to see Dutch band Focus. Ian runs the place like a very well oiled machine - the bar staff work methodically and cheerfully; prices are very competitive; the atmosphere is electric and everything is what every small, passionately run music venue should be. Well done to Ian and his hard working team

Graeme Wright