The Waterloo Music Bar
The Waterloo Music Bar in Blackpool, GB, is a grassroots venue that was revived and transformed into a dedicated live music space in 2019 when owner Ian Fletcher took control. It is architecturally distinctive for its rock and music-themed decor, including walls and ceilings covered in posters and T-shirts, Gibson and Fender guitars displayed throughout, drum kits converted into light fittings, and motorbikes suspended above the bar. A unique feature is Lemmy's Bar, a dedicated Motörhead-themed space—the only one of its kind in the UK—featuring Lemmy's white boots and Murder One amp stack, plus exclusive Motörhead-themed draft options. There is also a dedicated David Bowie wall. The venue has an exact audience capacity of 300 people, with a standing area in front of the stage and seating in the Live Lounge at the rear. It programs a diverse range of genres including rock, metal, punk, funk, soul, jazz, blues, indie, and alternative, hosting both original touring bands and tribute nights. The venue provides free accommodation for touring bands in two backstage rooms. It was voted Best Grassroots Music Venue in the 2021 North West Music Awards, and Planet Rock Radio awarded it Best Music Venue in the UK in 2020.
