Coopers to celebrate the ‘legendary landlady’ that the pub is named after

Ada’s Day will return to Coopers on Friday 16 January, marking an annual celebration of the legendary landlady who helped shape one of Liverpool’s most famous pubs.

A year on from the centenary of Ada Cooper receiving her first licence, the team at Coopers have confirmed the date will now be celebrated every year in honour of the woman at the heart of the pub’s story.

The tradition dates back to 16 January 1925, when Ada took over what was then known as The Sefton. Regulars quickly began referring to the pub by her surname, a typically Scouse mark of affection that would eventually become its official name. Her impact was so lasting that when the pub was refurbished 50 years later, it was formally renamed Coopers.

Following the success of last year’s centenary celebrations, which included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by local artist Emma Rodgers, Coopers will now mark Ada’s Day annually from 2026 onwards.

Licensee Maria Azzopardi, her partner and head of entertainment Steve Keegan, and the wider team are inviting people to join them on Friday 16 January to raise a glass to Ada’s legacy. A surprise guest performer will also take to the stage on the day.

The celebrations continue the following week with the pub’s annual Pensioners’ Party on Tuesday 20 January. Throughout the year, Coopers sets money aside to host the event, which includes food, drinks, gifts and plenty of singing.

Maria said the team is proud to make Ada’s Day a permanent fixture in the calendar, celebrating both Ada herself and the slice of Scouse culture she helped create. She added that Coopers continues to welcome a loyal community of regulars alongside visitors from around the world, with 2025 proving to be a standout year for the pub.

More than a century on, Coopers remains known for its warm welcome, live music and karaoke, with a reputation for bringing people together at all hours. While it is home to many long-standing regulars, new faces are always encouraged to become part of the story.

Since the centenary, members of the Coopers community have shared more about Ada’s life. Born in Middlesex in 1870, she married John Wilson in 1896 and lived at the pub while he was landlord. After his death in 1924, Ada remained at the pub and soon married Robert Cooper. She secured her licence as Ada Cooper on 16 January 1925, going on to complete a 35-year association with the venue.

Ada’s Day takes place at Coopers on Friday 16 January, celebrating a legacy that continues to shape the pub and its community today.

Get more info on Coopers Instagram.

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