History & Legacy

The Jacaranda played a pivotal role in the creation of the Merseybeat phenomenon, a movement that took the world by storm in the 1960s. Opened in 1957 by Allan Williams, the club quickly became a hotspot for up-and-coming artists, providing a stage for new talent in Liverpool.

Among its regular customers were local students John Lennon, Stuart Sutcliffe, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney, who frequented the venue during their early days. In fact, Sutcliffe and Lennon paid for rehearsal space by painting murals in the cellar, some of which remain iconic pieces of the club’s history.

Allan Williams, the Jacaranda's first manager, secured the band’s defining first tour in Hamburg in 1960, a key moment in shaping their future success. He also introduced them to Richard Starkey (later known as Ringo Starr), who was then the drummer for Rory Storm & The Hurricanes, a leading Jacaranda regular. However, Williams and The Beatles parted ways after a dispute over management fees, leading to Williams stepping aside as their manager. Soon after, the band’s management passed to Brian Epstein, who guided them to global fame.

The Jacaranda proudly hosted the first-ever performance of The Beatles in August 1960, with the original five-piece lineup of John, Paul, George, Stuart, and Pete Best. This performance marked the beginning of their journey to becoming the world-renowned Fab Four.

For over sixty years, The Jacaranda has been the stage on which generations of young artists have aspired to make their mark. Its contribution to Liverpool's rich musical heritage is unrivalled, a legacy that cannot be replicated. The Jacaranda is more than a venue—it is a living piece of music history.