From a coastal defence battery in 1825 to a treasured tourist attraction in 2024, Fort Perch Rock remains a crucial element of New Brighton's history.
Proudly mounted on New Brighton Beach, the Fort was once a powerful defence for the Port of Liverpool, however after nearly 200 years, it has embodied a new purpose for our community.
The Fort has recently welcomed and become home to The Mess, a flamboyant and soulful café, which first opened in Spring 2022.
Since then, The Mess has been loved by all dog-walkers who roam the promenade on a Sunday morning, whether you are popping in for a tea and a chat or tucking into Auntie Moe’s Scouse, The Mess caters for your every need.
I had the pleasure of speaking to Dane Brookes, owner of The Mess, who said: “We set out to make The Mess as homely and welcoming as possible. Success for me is seeing smiles as people leave after a fantastic and unique visit’
From the menu items that taste like home to the personal connection established with staff, The Mess exceeds its standards when it comes to customer service, you enter as a stranger and leave as a friend.
The element that singles out this café is Dane’s contribution to customer satisfaction, he said: ‘I try to be there for as many events as possible so I can greet and thank our customers personally.’
The Mess offers a plethora of events such as Goodtime Saturdays and Boogie Woogie Sundays with resident pianist Martyn McGinty, and hosting Off The Perch Comedy Club with a phenomenal set of local comedians.
Brad Kella, the 2024 winner of the Channel 4 show The Piano, famously played his first live shows at The Mess on their very own roaring 1920s piano.
The Mess is also actively involved in preserving history, seen through their vintage approach to every aspect of the café.
Dane encourages the ‘old-timey’ feel as: “We want people to feel like they are stepping back in time to a better, happier time”
They also have commemorated local veteran John Dennett on occasions such as D-Day, where he attended as the ‘guest of honour’.
The Mess showcases a real dedication to celebrate New Brighton history and continuously support local talent on their rise to fame, I think they have been successful in rekindling the spark the fortress once had in the 1820s.
Fort Perch Rock connects us to the tales of courage and sacrifices that outline our island’s history and there really is something special nestled inside.
