The Ship: Readers react to future of pub after being put up for sale

A popular drinking den for decades, the Ship Inn on Blackbrook Road closed its doors for the final time in October 2023.

It was well known for its disco nights in the 70s and 80s, its sports screens and Sunday lunches, and as a welcoming place to bring friends and family together.

As the pub was facing financial difficulties, Greene King put the business up for sale last summer, but as no bids came in, the independent operator handed the lease back to the brewery and the pub has been boarded up ever since.

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The Ship closed in October 2023 (Image: Anthony Porter)
Last week, the Star reported how the landmark venue had been placed on the market by estate agents Savills.

With a central bar, informal dining space, games area, catering kitchen, beer cellar, office, and patio, the two-storey building has been listed at a price of £250,000.

The first floor of the building also includes living accommodation with four bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen and bathroom.

Following the report that the Ship had been placed on the market, hundreds of Star readers responded with their thoughts and hopes of what its future may hold.

Star readers have opined on the pub's future (Image: Anthony Porter)
Suggestions from Star readers:

Emma Bee said: "Hopefully still a pub. There’s only one pub in Haydock now. The Ship could do well if it was run better. Loads of walkers at Sankey Valley would appreciate a cafe.

Marie Sheridan-foster commented: "[The Ship] used to get so busy, especially on Xmas eve. Some great memories with family here. Sadly went downhill. Reopen as a decent pub or get rid of the games room and build a decent kitchen so could be a restaurant or a nice food pub. Would do well. Just needs some money spending on it. Hopefully not flats."

P Kevin Duffy said: "Too much of a St Helens treasure and would be a travesty if it didn't remain as a public house, hope someone out there will keep this beautiful building to its former glory."

Jeff Taylor wrote: "Whatever happens it needs to be a pub. It's where my drinking days all started."

Kevin Peter Higgins said: "This needs to remain as a pub. Too many being lost."

Aimée Suzanne Johnson said: "If someone takes it on and runs it like the Cricketers Arms in St Helens, I'd go! Great Ale, good food."

Lynn Smith wrote: "Wetherspoons pub would be perfect for locals and passing trade."

Tony Melia commented: "A decent Chinese restaurant would be good or a cafe in the day and cocktail bar at night."

Debbie Bradbury said: "It could be a larger darts school especially as St Helens has been highlighted for this with Luke Littler and they could combine it with snooker tables and pool."

Paula Michel said: "Make it into a youth zone for kids to go, there's nowhere really for youngsters to go."

Shaun Gallagher wrote: "Tesco seem to have a policy of taking over shut down pubs with large car parks. Asda has recently announced a large expansion of convenience stores. So Asda is a good bet. Shame because real ale pubs are currently booming, big demand for them."

Susie English said: "I’m guessing flats. So sad that this country can’t afford any kind of leisure facilities for ordinary people any more. Yea the wealthy areas still have their bars and sport facilities but no pubs, no working mens clubs. We don’t matter here….."