Raising a Glass to Woodwards Winebar, Our Business of the Week and a True Formby Favourite
- Formby Bubble
- Jun 2
- 2 min read

Business of the Week: Woodwards Winebar 🍷🎶
Raising a Glass to Woodwards Winebar, Our Business of the Week and a True Formby Favourite

Nestled in the heart of Formby village, Woodwards has long been a lively, welcoming venue that locals and visitors alike cherish for its live music, fantastic cocktails, and warm, friendly atmosphere.
The story of Woodwards Winebar is woven deeply into the fabric of Formby’s history. Established in May 2003 by John Aindow and Claire Lewin, Woodwards was named in tribute to John’s father, who, like many Formby residents, worked at Woodwards Garage.

Woodwards Garage was a much-loved garage that operated from 1950 and once stood proudly on the site where the Tesco superstore now stands, just beyond the bypass. Though the garage was eventually demolished and Tesco was built, the family name was kept alive in Formby through the opening of Woodwards Winebar.
But the site itself has an even richer history. Before becoming the vibrant bar we know today, the building itself was home to the ‘Quality Shop’.

The Quality Shop was a popular sweet shop that served up delicious treats to generations of Formby children. The sweet shop was run by the Gerrard family, who lived above it in what is now The Attic - which is a heritage centre and museum that pays homage to Formby’s rich past and community spirit.
Woodwards Winebar quickly became a cherished part of Formby village life, and after a few successful years under John and Claire, it was sold to former Everton star Alan Stubbs.
In 2011, it found its permanent home under the ownership of mother-and-daughter team Pat Wordley and Louise Savage.

Since then, Woodwards has gone from strength to strength, becoming a vital gathering place where friendships are made, memories are shared, and the spirit of Formby truly comes alive.
Pat Wordley, an inspirational figure in the community, has not only continued the tradition of great drinks and live music at Woodwards but has also played a leading role in nurturing Formby’s vibrant cultural scene.
Pat was the driving force behind the creation of Formby Live, a fantastic three-day music festival that sees the whole village buzzing with live music, food, and laughter. Her dedication doesn’t stop there—Pat also founded The Attic heritage centre above Woodwards.
The Attic is a wonderful space that tells the story of our village and keeps the memories of Formby’s past alive for future generations.

Today, Woodwards Winebar is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a community hub and a living piece of local history, offering live music, special events, and that unmistakable sense of belonging that makes Formby such a special place to live.
For bookings, enquiries, or more information, please contact:
📞 01704 831049
📍 Woodwards Winebar, 16 Chapel Lane, Formby, Liverpool L37 4DU
Here’s to Woodwards Winebar—our Business of the Week—and to many more years of laughter, music, and community spirit right in the heart of Formby! 🥂
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