Pen Factory founder praised as new owners say 'not much will change'

The new owners of one of Liverpool's most legendary bars have said "not much will change" when they re-open after a refurbishment. The Pen Factory on Hope Street, which was regarded by many to be the spiritual successor of the fabled Everyman Bistro, has been sold by its owner Paddy Byrne, who founded both venues and has been on the street for 54 years.

Paddy and his business partner Dave Scott set up The Everyman Bistro in 1970 when they were young graduates. Founded in the basement beneath The Everyman Theatre, the bistro developed a reputation as the epicentre of the city's arts scene. When the Everyman Theatre was closed for a refurbishment in 2011, the bistro permanently shut its doors.

However, this didn't stop Paddy from opening The Pen Factory next door in 2014 which, like its predecessor, quickly became a meeting place for creatives in the city, who would often come from the nearby theatres and art colleges to have a drink or a bite to eat. Now, after a decade, Paddy has left Hope Street, leaving his bar with the Small Hands company, which is run by husband and wife Dominic and Fiona Hornsby.

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The company owns The Bridewell in Campbell Square, off Duke Street, and successfully re-opened The Denbigh Castle on Hackins Hey, off Dale Street in 2020. Despite The Pen Factory currently being closed for refurbishment, Fiona insists "not much will change". She told the ECHO: "We’ll be serving the same sort of beers as we do at the Denbigh and Bridewell. Not much is going to change; there’ll be some decorating but not a huge amount because it’s an institution.

"We’ve known Paddy for years, he’s a legend and the nicest person. We want to keep the same crowd and build on it - our staff say the customers are amazing. The beer garden is ace and doesn’t need much work at all - Paddy’s planted everything beautifully. We've retained the entire team, who are all absolutely lovely."

After news began to spread of The Pen Factory's closure, many praised Paddy for his work on Hope Street over the years. Steve Jopson said: "Paddy is a legend, an absolute hero. I started going to the Everyman Bistro in about 1976, always had great food and lovely beer. Well done Paddy and have a great life." Graham Seddon added: "Great pub, ale is boss."

One person said: "Best wishes to Paddy, the Everyman bistro was our monthly treat for many years while the children were growing up. Great food, lovely, arty atmosphere, still much missed! Thanks to Paddy! Have a long and happy retirement!" Another added: "The world - well, Hope Street - will never be the same again. Will miss Paddy, who I've known for more than 5 decades."

On Tuesday, The Arts Bar on Hope Street posted a heartfelt message to Paddy on its Facebook account. It reads: "Where to start with this man. Mr Hope Street. Thank you for the years of kindness, honesty, help and advice. After a total of 54 years on this street, it’s time to enjoy being a punter.

"Paddy has been an inspiration for us since opening our doors as 26 year olds in 2019. His story in our city is a famous one. Paddy took the leap on when he too was 26 and worked tirelessly to give a platform for local artists to meet, share ideas and try out new projects whilst also delivering a quality hospitality experience. He turned the Everyman Bistro in to a hotbed of creative activity, hosting countless big names and personalities. Many a famous creative tale in this city will mention Paddy.

"In the hospitality world, his eye for detail is incredible, whether that be with service, decor, table layouts, menu design, the lot. Constantly looking for ways to improve, develop and fine tune his offering. He welcomed us with open arms in to The Pen Factory, as he has with everyone when we crossed the road for a Friday night pint.

"He watched from across the road as we took over our site on Hope Street. He was drawn over by the noise and colour. He made sure to look after us, support where he could and make sure our teams came together to help one another (much more them helping us). We have shared a few nights, drinking a negroni, talking of times gone by and what is to come and we know through those nights he saw in us a glimmer of what he was doing many moons ago.

"Paddy, your legacy on this iconic street will be unmatched. Thanks for all the time and support you have given us. See you soon for a negroni."