Manchester pub to undergo £300k revamp as grassroots music venue

A city centre pub is set to undergo a £300,000 revamp, with grassroots music central to its new landlord’s plans.

The Grafton Arms, located just off Oxford Road, is being taken on by Ben Turn, who has run the award-winning Eagle Inn, which itself has a stellar reputation for live music, for the past three years.

As well as developing the Grafton Arms as a music venue, Ben also plans to extend its role as a community pub – with similar social groups to those that take place at the Eagle Inn, such as creative writing, chess, and a running club.

According to records, The Grafton Arms was first licensed in 1853, and Joseph Holt bought it in 1890. The revamp of the pub includes a full refurbishment as well as new sound and lighting systems to accommodate any bands, live music promoters, or social groups.

An acoustic singer-songwriter and music promoter himself,  Ben has previously held an event at The Grafton Arms – with the LOP Fest, a three-day independent music festival which took place at the venue last October  He also runs Lamp Oil Presents, which will be running in-house promotions at The Grafton  Arms as well as continuing to do so at the Eagle Inn. The plan is for Ben to operate both pubs similarly while at the same time developing their unique identity.

Speaking about the project, Ben said: “Manchester is such a thriving city in terms of music–- for both lovers of music and those who play. I`ve loved running the Eagle Inn but it`s a cosy 80 person capacity. So, when the opportunity to take on the Grafton Arms came up, I could immediately see the potential.

“There’s space for a stage and for around 150 people to watch a live act  as well as 250 depending on the event. I want to help give musicians – especially new bands – by giving them a chance to play and in a venue where we really care about those who will play here. But I also love the fact that the Grafton Arms is a traditional pub.  So, it`s place to drink locally brewed Joseph Holt ale in a traditional, characterful pub and feel part of the community as well as having a great gig.”

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