Piccadilly to become social and entertainment hub thanks to Friday Night Socials

On the back of previous success, and to mark a significant reduction on lockdown restrictions that have left many of us feeling more in need of social contact and entertainment than ever, Stoke-on-Trent City Centre Business Improvement District (BID), is set to transform Piccadilly into a thriving hub this summer.

The BID is bringing FRIDAY NIGHT SOCIALS, sponsored by Genr8, to Piccadilly during select Friday evenings in the summer months, kick-starting on 4 June.

Much-loved city centre restaurants and bars will be throwing open their doors to offer an alfresco dining and drinking location whilst patrons can also enjoy the music from local DJs who will be performing on the street on the following dates:

• Friday 4 June: DJ Ben McManus 
• Friday 25 June: DJ Mark Askew
• Friday 23 July: DJ Ben McManus 
• Friday 20 August: DJ Mark Askew

Venues where you can dine, drink, enjoy the music and soak up the atmosphere include: The Slamwich Club, The Orchard Bar & Bistro, NORTH Kitchen + Bar, Klay Pizzeria, Bottlecraft, The Gin Rummy, Peter’s Tavern, La Bella Napoli, Bloom, The Corner, The Unicorn Inn and The Quarter.

During the times of 5pm to 9pm, anyone wishing to kick-start their weekend, whether they’re a city centre worker finishing for the day, or someone heading into town for the evening, are encouraged to take to Piccadilly and sample the food and beverages on offer at any of the numerous independent establishments that adorn the street – all whilst enjoying the smooth grooves provided by DJs.

The aim of Friday Night Socials is to emulate the successful socialising and nightlife aspects of thriving cities such as Manchester and Birmingham. With a myriad of vibrant independent businesses along Piccadilly, it is one of the BID’s priorities to showcase the unique and enticing offering whilst increasing footfall through various events and initiatives.

BID Manager Richard Buxton believes that Friday Night Socials will benefit the City Centre’s economy and that it is a step in the right direction to becoming an attractive and engaging destination:

“This is the kind of thing we as a city need to be doing to put us on the same stage as our neighbouring cities. 

“We have some incredible independent eateries and an amazing entertainment offering in the Piccadilly area and so there is no reason why we cannot aspire to an ambiance similar to Liverpool’s Concert Square.

“With the summer season approaching and the nights getting lighter, many patrons will be keen to make use of outdoor areas for eating and drinking. We hope to welcome city centre employees for post-work drinks, and those seeking to socialise on a Friday evening – particular as the lifting of restrictions finally allows us to meet with friends and loved ones.”

Chris Wilson, owner of independent craft beer off-license and bar Bottlecraft supports the BID event:

“At Bottlecraft, we’re a huge advocate of anything that showcases the wealth of culture present in Stoke-on-Trent.

“Initiatives like these go a long way in challenging negative perceptions about the place but in truth, new independent businesses and exciting events are popping up that are bringing about real, positive change to the city and this is just the thing to celebrate that, alongside all our wonderful customers. 

“Friday Night Socials provide a great platform to promote Piccadilly’s local, community feel, by drinking and eating in our delightful independent bars, cafes and restaurants and listening to our talented local musicians.”

Jody Rushton from The Orchard Bar and Bistro agrees:

“As a relatively new business to the street and after an incredibly challenging first year, we are really looking forward to welcoming people back to the city centre in style – it’s so exciting to see some normality returning and a good evening out with food, drinks and music is what we all need right now!”