The Closure of the Winslow Hotel: A Loss for Everton's Community

The Winslow Hotel, located on Goodison Road, has been a significant establishment for Everton Football Club and its supporters since its opening in 1886. The pub served as a gathering place for fans and players alike, hosting numerous events and celebrations tied to the club's history. Notable figures such as Duncan Ferguson and Alan Stubbs have frequented the venue, which became a shrine to Everton's legacy, adorned with memorabilia and photographs.

The Guardian

The closure of the Winslow on January 24, 2026, marked the end of an era, coinciding with Everton's relocation from Goodison Park to a new stadium two miles away. General manager Dave Bond cited the financial unsustainability of the pub due to a drastic decline in matchday attendance as the primary reason for its closure. Previously, the pub thrived on the influx of over 40,000 fans during men's matches, but with the women's team drawing only 3,000 to 6,000 attendees, the revenue plummeted. Bond noted, “Once we lost the Everton fans to the degree that we did, the soul left this building.”

The Guardian

The Winslow's farewell party was attended by hundreds, reflecting the deep emotional ties the community had with the pub. Former staff members expressed their sadness over the closure, describing the Winslow as a family. Teresa Walsh, a long-time employee, remarked on the friendships formed over the years, stating, “The Winslow was like a family to me and the staff.”

Liverpool Echo

Following the closure, many staff members found new employment at Moody Blues, another Everton-themed bar, indicating a sense of continuity within the community. Bond is also preparing to open a new venue, Dixie's, near the new stadium, although he acknowledged the challenges faced by local pubs in the wake of the club's move. He expressed concern that many businesses could ultimately fail due to the loss of matchday traffic.

The Guardian

Dave Bond emphasized the emotional weight of the Winslow's closure, stating, “It was quite sad and poignant when the men’s team left Goodison. That tie was pretty much slowly severed.” He also clarified that while he could not take staff to his new venture, there was no ill-feeling, as many had already sought new opportunities.

Liverpool Echo

Critics of the club's move argue that the relocation has severed vital community ties and harmed local businesses that depended on matchday crowds. The Winslow's closure is seen as a significant loss not just for its patrons but for the cultural fabric of Everton's history.

The Guardian

While Bond indicated that the Winslow's closure was due to financial reasons, some community members believe that the club's decision to move has broader implications for local businesses and the community's identity. The future of the Winslow's site remains uncertain, with a previous planning application for redevelopment rejected due to concerns over noise impact on local residents.

Liverpool Echo

The Winslow Hotel's closure serves as a poignant reminder of the changing landscape surrounding Everton Football Club and the lasting impact on its community.

The Guardian