The site of a lost Liverpool nightclub which was open for decades transformed into the 'finest' restaurant in the city. Before its days as a restaurant, 60 Hope Street was home to one of the oldest clubs in the city centre. The building, which is Grade II listed, first as the Conservative Working Men's Club.
But in 1935, it became a chauffeurs' club where drivers could wait for their wealthy masters. In later years, the site became a taxi drivers' club and went on to see customers from all walks of life Known to most generations as Chauffeurs nightclub, many nights were spent at the venue. In its time, Chauffeurs was also home to a thriving Latin dance scene.
Many former customers the staff and previous owners through the years, such as the late Charlie Scott and the club's final owner, Ken Hanley. But after decades in business, it was announced in September 1998 that Chauffeurs would close its doors for good at the end of that month. At the time, it was reported how the changing club scene and influx of late night bars had impacted the decision and that owner Mr Hanley was retiring after 16 years.
The club previously had a membership list of 500, but this dwindled to 120 or 130 in its final two years in business. At the time, Mr Hanley said: "Trends have changed, and with the advent of all-day opening and late licences we cannot compete any more. This kind of club is no longer commercially viable.
" Mr Hanley, who died in 1999, added: "The club has always attracted the over-2.
