St Brigid's Arms opening
A full-scale recreation of an Irish pub and living room opens on Ashton Street, exploring the living histories, community resilience and cultural contributions of Irish women in the North of England.
A full-scale recreation of an Irish pub and living room opens on Ashton Street, exploring the living histories, community resilience and cultural contributions of Irish women in the North of England.
Overview & what to expect
St Brigid's Arms opens inside the Victoria Gallery & Museum on Ashton Street, launching an ambitious exhibition that runs through to April 2027. Created by artist and psychotherapist Lydia O'Hara alongside Rosarie Walsh of Emerald LENS, the installation reconstructs a fictional Irish pub and domestic living room to showcase the untold stories of women of Irish descent.
Drawing on extensive oral history workshops conducted across Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds, the exhibition weaves together audio recordings, visual portraiture, historical textiles, dance and archive film footage.
The project challenges nostalgic stereotypes by centring the practical labour, community building, and quiet strength of generations of Irish women who made northern English cities their home.
Exhibition details
Venue essentials & visiting advice
Age requirements
Open and suitable for all ages.
Entry & admission
Free admission for all museum visitors.
Bag restrictions
Standard museum gallery rules; lockers available for larger items and rucksacks.
Payment methods
Free admission to galleries; cards accepted at museum shop and café.
Content & special effects guidance
- Exhibition features audio listening stations and multimedia projections.
Where to eat & drink nearby
The Pen Factory
The Philharmonic Dining Rooms
Getting there & getting home
Nearest Merseyrail station: Liverpool Lime Street (10 min walk via Brownlow Hill)
Victoria Gallery & Museum, Ashton Street, University of Liverpool, L69 3DR
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