Manchester - The Rat & Pigeon
Opening soon as "The Rat & Pigeon," the notorious Mother Mac's is set to undergo a significant transformation. Officially opening on June 6th, 2024, this boozer is located in the Northern Quarter just behind the Weatherspoons in Piccadilly Gardens. It will be run by the same team that operates the Crown & Kettle, situated at the end of the Northern Quarter and on the edge of Ancoats, only a 7-minute walk away.
The reimagined pub promises to bring much-needed gentrification to Back Piccadilly, an area yearning for renewal. While some nostalgics may lament the loss of the old pub's character, many will welcome the change, eager for a cleaner, well-maintained establishment with a broader selection of drinks.
Mother Mac's, with its dark and grisly past, has long been a haunt with a notorious reputation. The pub is infamous for the tragic murder-suicide committed by the manager Arthur Bradbury in 1976. On that fateful night, Bradbury killed his wife, children, the cleaner, and eventually himself, leaving a blood-stained legacy that has lingered for decades.
The new ownership aims to preserve the building's historical significance while shedding its sordid past, transforming it into a vibrant and inviting venue that respects its heritage while embracing modernity. "The Rat & Pigeon" will offer a refreshed atmosphere, balancing the echoes of laughter and tales of yesteryears with contemporary comforts.
This revival marks a new chapter for the building, ensuring that it remains a cherished landmark in Manchester's urban scene. By blending the old with the new, "The Rat & Pigeon" honors its complex history while looking forward to a brighter future.